Italian Easter Cookies Recipe

Italian Easter Cookies are soft, tender vanilla cookies with a hint of citrus, traditionally made during the Easter season. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are finished with a simple glaze and festive sprinkles, making them as pretty as they are delicious. Whether for Easter brunch or gifting, they’re a delightful addition to any spring dessert table.

Italian Easter Cookies Recipe

Ingredients List

– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
– Zest of 1 lemon or orange
– ¼ cup milk

For the glaze:
– 1½ cups powdered sugar
– 2–3 tablespoons milk
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– Sprinkles (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla, almond extract (if using), and citrus zest.
Step 5: Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms.
Step 6: Roll dough into 1-inch balls or twist into rings. Place on baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until set but not browned.
Step 7: Let cookies cool. Mix glaze ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Dip tops of cookies into glaze and add sprinkles if desired. Let set before serving.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Servings

Makes about 30 cookies

Nutritional Information (approx. per cookie)

Calories: 90
Carbs: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 4g

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Can be frozen (unglazed) for up to 2 months. Glaze after thawing.

Pairings/Suggestions

Perfect with coffee, tea, or alongside other Easter treats like fruit salad or brunch casseroles.
Great as a gift or for Easter cookie platters.

Seasonal Relevance

A classic for Easter celebrations, especially in Italian households. Also lovely for spring-themed parties or baby showers.

Conclusion

Italian Easter Cookies bring sweet tradition to your table with their soft texture, bright flavor, and charming look. Whether you shape them into balls or rings, glaze and sprinkles make them irresistibly festive. These cookies are simple to make and sure to become a holiday favorite for years to come.

Italian Easter Cookies Recipe

Recipe by mayaCourse: Uncategorized
Servings

30

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

90

kcal

Italian Easter Cookies are soft, buttery, and lightly sweetened cookies often adorned with colorful sprinkles or topped with a cherry. These festive treats are a beloved tradition during the Easter season, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

  • Zest of 1 lemon or orange

  • ¼ cup milk

  • For the glaze:

  • 1½ cups powdered sugar

  • 2–3 tablespoons milk

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Sprinkles (optional)

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  • In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla, almond extract (if using), and citrus zest.
  • Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms.
  • Roll dough into 1-inch balls or twist into rings. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until set but not browned.
  • Let cookies cool. Mix glaze ingredients until smooth. Dip tops of cookies into glaze and add sprinkles if desired. Let set before serving.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Keeps fresh up to 1 week in airtight container
    Try dipping in melted chocolate for a twist
    Freezes well; thaw before serving

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these cookies without citrus zest?
Yes, but the zest adds brightness. You can omit it or substitute with a splash of citrus extract.

Q2: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can chill the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I color the glaze?
Yes! Add a few drops of food coloring to the glaze for a festive touch.

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