Name: Italian Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon anise extract; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 5 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze); Sprinkles for decorating

Why You’ll Love Italian Cookies Recipe

These Italian cookies are classic and crowd‑pleasing. They use simple pantry staples but deliver a bakery‑style result with a soft texture and flavorful glaze. The dough is easy to work with, even for beginner bakers, and the festive sprinkles make them great for celebrations, cookie swaps, holiday cookie trays, or gifts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cookies
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
eggs
whole milk
almond extract
all‑purpose flour
baking powder
salt

Glaze
powdered sugar
almond extract
whole milk
garnish (rainbow nonpareil sprinkles or any seasonal sprinkles)

Directions

Mix the dough: Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in milk and almond extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients until a thick dough forms.
Chill the dough: Cover and refrigerate the dough for 30–45 minutes. This firms it up so it’s easier to scoop and helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Preheat oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape cookies: Scoop dough and roll into smooth balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets spaced about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Bake for about 10–12 minutes, until the tops are pale and the bottoms are lightly golden. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Glaze and decorate: Whisk together powdered sugar, almond extract, and enough milk to reach a honey‑like consistency. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, let excess drip off, then add sprinkles. Allow glaze to set before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 36 cookies
Prep time: About 15 minutes
Chill time: 30–45 minutes
Bake time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: ~55 minutes

Variations

Swap almond extract for vanilla, lemon, or orange extract for different flavor notes. For a traditional Italian wedding cookie twist, add a touch of anise extract. Use colored sprinkles for seasonal themes, or skip the sprinkles altogether for a classic glazed look.

Storage/Reheating

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place parchment between layers if stacking to prevent sticking. These cookies don’t require reheating, but if desired, warm briefly in the microwave for 5–8 seconds to soften before serving — taking care not to melt the glaze. The dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze unglazed cookies for up to 2 months; thaw completely before glazing and decorating.

FAQs

What makes these cookies “Italian”?

These cookies are inspired by classic Italian‑American bakery cookies — soft, lightly sweet, often glazed with almond flavoring and decorated with sprinkles, common on cookie trays and holiday tables.

Can I use vanilla extract instead of almond extract?

Yes, you can swap almond extract for vanilla. Almond gives a more traditional flavor, but vanilla works well too.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to scoop and roll and preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

Can I make these gluten‑free?

Yes — use a 1‑to‑1 gluten‑free flour blend in place of all‑purpose flour. The texture may vary slightly.

Why are my cookies pale on top?

These cookies are meant to stay pale on top; a light golden bottom indicates they are baked properly.

How do I fix runny glaze?

Add more powdered sugar a little at a time until you reach the desired thickness.

Can I skip the sprinkles?

Yes, skip them for a more classic simple glazed cookie. They’re optional and purely decorative.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze baked cookies?

Yes, freeze unglazed cookies for up to 2 months; thaw fully before glazing and decorating.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough up to 24 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.

Conclusion

These Italian cookies bring together simple ingredients and easy steps to deliver soft, tender cookies with a classic glaze and festive sprinkles. Whether for holidays, gatherings, or everyday dessert, they’re a delightful treat that’s satisfying to make and share.