Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Desserts like this are patient. In fact, the flavor often settles and deepens overnight. Store them in an airtight container once fully cooled.

Will the cookies become hard if I leave them out?

They will keep a soft, slightly crumbly texture at room temperature for a few days. Avoid refrigeration unless you plan to freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use vanilla instead of almond extract?

You can. Almond is traditional and offers a floral note. Vanilla will give a more familiar, round sweetness. Use pure extract for the best flavor.

How can I tell the cookies are done without browning?

Look for a set surface and edges that hold their shape. The cookies should not sink when touched lightly. They will firm more as they cool.

Can I make them gluten free?

You can substitute a gluten-free flour blend and keep almond flour. Texture may change slightly, but the cookies will still be tender.

Easy Italian Wedding Cookies 2026

Name: Italian Wedding Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting); 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 egg (at room temperature); 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup almond flour

Description

Delicate Italian Wedding Cookies, perfect for celebrations, offering a gentle sweetness and a soft texture, dusted with powdered sugar.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 egg (at room temperature)
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup almond flour

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment.
In a standing mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the butter and powdered sugar and beat on medium speed until pale, light, and fluffy.
Add the almond extract, salt, and egg, and beat again for 1 minute until smooth.
Add the flour and almond flour, mixing on low until just combined. Do not overmix.
Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds and roll them into smooth balls.
Place the balls on the baking sheet, press down slightly, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until just set but not browned.
Cool slightly on the tray for about 10 minutes, dust with powdered sugar before cooling completely on a rack.

Notes

Use room temperature butter for a lighter cookie. For alternative flavoring, a hint of citrus zest can enhance the dough. Avoid overbaking for the best texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 cookies
Calories: 150
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg