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Sweet Nostalgia: Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe

Celebrate the warmth of the holiday season with Italian Christmas cookies! This beloved tradition brings families together in the kitchen, mixing flavors and creating memories. With every bite, you’ll savor the rich history and diverse regional recipes that make these cookies unique. Learn how to bake your own delicious batch, perfect for sharing or gifting. Let the sweet nostalgia fill your home! #ItalianCookies #ChristmasBaking #HolidayTraditions #BakingMemories #SweetNostalgia
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Ingredients
  

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

Zest of 1 lemon

1 cup confectioners' sugar (for icing)

2 tablespoons milk (for icing)

Colored sprinkles (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.

      Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

        Incorporate Eggs and Flavors: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.

          Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the dry ingredient blend until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour.

            Shape the Cookies: Take a small amount of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and roll it into a ball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly. Repeat with the remaining dough, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.

              Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies, allowing it to set.

                  Add Sprinkles: While the icing is still wet, sprinkle colored sprinkles on top for decoration.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Once the icing is set, serve the cookies to your guests or package them as gifts for a sweet touch of nostalgia this Christmas!

                      Prep Time: 25 mins | Total Time: 40 mins | Servings: 24 cookies