The scent of warm spices and sweet dough baking fills the air – it’s the unmistakable aroma of Christmas! And what better way to capture that festive spirit than by making traditional Italian Christmas cookies? These melt-in-your-mouth treats are not only delicious but also incredibly rewarding to make. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, offering a delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favourite. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea (or rather, quick dessert idea!) that's perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients: A Taste of Italy
This recipe yields approximately 30-40 cookies.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped candied fruit (oranges, citron, etc.)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions: Step-by-Step Sweetness
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This is a crucial step for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential for a tender cookie. An electric mixer makes this much easier!
Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gentle mixing: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Add the festive mix: Stir in the chopped candied fruit and nuts.
Shape and bake: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
Baking magic: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooling and dusting: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust generously with powdered sugar.
Tips for the Perfect Cookie:
- For a richer flavor, use browned butter.
- If your dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping. This also helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of candied fruit and nuts. Dried cranberries or cherries would be lovely additions!
- These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Variations: A Festive Twist
- Chocolate Indulgence: Add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent twist.
- Spiced Delight: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright and refreshing aroma.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories Fat: 6-7 grams Carbohydrates: 15-17 grams Sugar: 8-10 grams Protein: 1-2 grams
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
These delicious Italian Christmas cookies are a wonderful addition to any holiday celebration. They are relatively easy to make, perfect for both experienced bakers and those just starting their culinary journey. Enjoy the process of making these delightful treats and share the festive cheer with your loved ones!