Description
These authentic Italian Christmas cookies are a cherished holiday tradition, featuring a delightful blend of almonds, citrus, and festive spices.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- Zest of 1 orange
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the almond extract and orange zest.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined, then fold in the chopped almonds.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. For a festive touch, add colored sprinkles before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Method: Dessert
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 2g