Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Desserts like this are patient. In fact, the flavor often settles and deepens overnight. Store in an airtight container and enjoy the next day.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can, but I prefer unsalted. If you use salted butter, taste the dough and skip adding extra salt. Salt can change the sweetness balance.

Are these cookies good for a holiday cookie tray?

Definitely. They look festive and travel well. Place them in a shallow tin with layers of parchment and your tray will look like a family album.

Can I freeze the dough or the baked cookies?

Freeze the baked cookies up to three months. To freeze dough, shape the balls and freeze on a tray, then pack them. Bake a few minutes longer from frozen.

What if my cookies spread too much?

Check your butter temperature. If it is too soft or melting, chill the dough briefly before rolling. Also check your flour measure. A little more flour helps, but not too much.

Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies 2026

Name: Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Sprinkles for decoration

Description

Delightfully tender and sweet, these Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies are a family favorite, perfect for sharing during the holiday season.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Sprinkles for decoration

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the baking sheet.
Flatten each ball slightly and decorate with sprinkles.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Allow to cool before serving.

Notes

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. They taste even better the next day as flavors meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 80
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 10mg