Italian Cookies

These classic Italian cookies are soft, airy, and full of delightful flavor from vanilla and almond. They are a favorite for both everyday and festive occasions, characterized by their light texture and sweet glaze topped with colorful sprinkles. Perfect to serve with coffee or tea, and equally popular among children and adults. These cookies bring a touch of Italian baking tradition into your kitchen.

• 130 g sugar
• 115 g room temperature butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 tsp almond extract
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 315 g all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp salt

• Whisk together sugar, butter, vanilla, and almond extracts until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs and whisk until everything is well combined. (The batter may look slightly separated.)
• Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well mixed. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours.
• Shape the dough into balls about 2.5 cm in diameter and place them on 2 baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving at least 2.5 cm between each.
• Bake the cookies at 175°C in the middle of the oven for about 10-12 minutes, until they are firm and lightly golden on the bottom.
• Cool on a wire rack.
• Mix together powdered sugar, milk/water, and vanilla extract. Dip the top of each cookie in the glaze, allowing excess glaze to drip off, and then sprinkle with sprinkles.

Once the glaze has set, the cookies are ready to serve, soft, delicate, and decorative. These cookies are just as suitable for a dessert table as they are in a cookie jar for enjoyment throughout the week. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture, and enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a little taste of Italy at home.