Italian Christmas Cookies are a festive and colorful treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. These soft, buttery cookies are rolled in vibrant rainbow nonpareils for a fun and festive touch. With a light, airy texture and a simple, delicious flavor, they are ideal for cookie exchanges or as a sweet addition to any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup rainbow nonpareils
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the rainbow nonpareils to coat evenly.
- Place the cookies 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 36 cookies
Variations
- Different sprinkles: Instead of rainbow nonpareils, use colored sugar, jimmies, or even crushed candy canes for a different festive look.
- Lemon zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus twist.
- Almond extract: Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a more traditional Italian flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
10 FAQs
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, it may affect the texture and flavor of the cookies. Butter is recommended for the best taste and texture. - Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just let the dough come to room temperature before rolling into balls. - Can I use a different type of sprinkle?
Yes, you can use any type of sprinkles, such as sugar crystals, jimmies, or chocolate chips for a different flavor or appearance. - How can I make the cookies softer?
To keep the cookies soft, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden. - What if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. - Can I make these cookies smaller?
Yes, you can make smaller balls, but keep in mind that the baking time may need to be reduced slightly. - Can I add nuts to the dough?
Yes, chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts would make a great addition to the dough for extra flavor and texture. - Can I substitute the eggs?
You can substitute the eggs with an egg replacer or flaxseed meal for a vegan version of the cookies. - Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
If using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder and salt in the recipe, as the self-rising flour already contains these ingredients. - How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are golden, and the tops are set. They should be firm to the touch without being overly browned.
Conclusion
Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday cookie tray. With their simple ingredients and fun rainbow coating, they bring joy and color to any Christmas celebration. These soft, buttery cookies are quick to make and sure to be a favorite among friends and family. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or gifting them to loved ones, these cookies are guaranteed to spread holiday cheer.