Name: Italian Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 eggs; 6 tablespoons vegetable oil; ½ cup sugar; 1 teaspoon almond extract, vanilla extract, or ½ teaspoon anise extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 pinch salt; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon almond extract or vanilla extract; 1 pinch salt; 3-4 tablespoons cream or milk, warmed

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If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a cookie that’s tender, lightly sweet, and filled with a hint of almond or anise magic, this Italian Cookies Recipe is a must-try for your kitchen adventures. These charming cookies capture the essence of Italian baking: simple ingredients transformed into delightful treats you’ll want to share with everyone you love. Whether you’re new to Italian desserts or a seasoned baker looking for a fresh favorite, this recipe offers an irresistibly soft texture paired with a luscious glaze that brings everything together beautifully. I’m excited to walk you through every step and share some of my favorite tips to make these Italian cookies truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a gray mixing bowl containing pale yellow dough with a crumbly texture. Inside the bowl, there is a spatula with a light wooden handle and a dark gray silicone head, partially embedded in the dough. The bowl is sitting on a white marbled surface, and the dough looks dense and slightly rough, not fully smooth, with scattered small lumps throughout. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these ingredients is like preparing for a small but joy-filled baking celebration. Each one plays a vital role, from the eggs that bind everything together to the almond or anise extract that adds that signature twist to the flavor. This recipe focuses on straightforward pantry staples with a tiny splash of aromatic charm.

2 eggs: These provide moisture and richness to give the cookies their soft, tender crumb.
6 tablespoons vegetable oil: Adds subtle fat for a delicate texture without overpowering the flavor.
½ cup sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the extracts and keep the cookies light.
1 teaspoon almond extract, vanilla extract, or ½ teaspoon anise extract: Choose your favorite for that authentic Italian flavor punch.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base structure that holds the cookie together and provides that familiar bite.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cookies rise to the perfect soft fluffiness.
1 pinch salt: Enhances all the sweet and nutty tones in the dough.

For the glaze:

2 cups powdered sugar: The sweet canvas for a smooth, luscious finish.
1 teaspoon almond extract or vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with that same warm, comforting flavor from the dough.
1 pinch salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
3-4 tablespoons cream or milk, warmed: Turns powdered sugar into a silky glaze that lightly coats the cookies.

How to Make Italian Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale, signaling the right level of blending. Next, add the vegetable oil along with your chosen extract—almond, vanilla, or anise—to infuse the dough with that classic Italian aroma that makes these cookies uniquely special.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and prevents clumps, setting the foundation for a perfectly soft texture.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently. The dough will become soft but manageable, just right for shaping without sticking to your hands. Avoid overmixing to maintain that tender crumb everyone loves in Italian cookies.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space for them to spread slightly. Bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges are set but the cookies still look soft. This ensures they stay moist after baking.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While your cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, your choice of extract, a pinch of salt, and warmed cream or milk. Adjust the liquid quantity until the glaze is smooth and pourable, perfect for coating the top of each cookie for that satisfying sweet finish.

Step 6: Glaze the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the top of each cookie into the glaze or spoon it over. Let the glaze set at room temperature or pop them briefly in the fridge until it firms—this glaze adds that delightful sweet crunch and a touch of elegance to every bite.

How to Serve Italian Cookies Recipe

A baking tray with a white marbled texture holds 20 round dough balls evenly spaced in four rows. Each dough ball is smooth, light yellow, and slightly shiny, resting on a sheet of white parchment paper that covers the tray. The tray's edges show a worn silver metal texture, contrasting with the soft dough shapes arranged neatly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

You can sprinkle some finely chopped almonds or colored sugar crystals on top of the glaze before it sets to add a visual sparkle and a slight crunch. Fresh citrus zest or edible flowers also pair beautifully, bringing a fresh aroma and the charm of homemade care.

Side Dishes

These Italian cookies are a perfect companion to a warm cup of espresso or a softly brewed tea. Consider serving alongside a light ricotta cream or a fresh fruit compote to contrast the sweet and tender crumb with smooth or tangy textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange them artfully on a pretty platter dusted with powdered sugar for celebrations, or stack them in a rustic tin as a thoughtful gift. Alternatively, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper inside an airtight container for an inviting presentation that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Italian cookies stay fresh for several days when kept in an airtight container at room temperature. The glaze might soften a bit, but that only adds to the chewiness, making them perfect to enjoy over a couple of days.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats for longer, freeze the unglazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and glaze as directed, or freeze after glazing if you prefer.

Reheating

For a fresh-baked feel, warm the cookies in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This gently refreshes the texture without melting the glaze. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cookie overly soft.

FAQs

Can I substitute different extracts in the Italian Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! The recipe is quite forgiving, so feel free to experiment with almond, vanilla, or anise extracts depending on your flavor preference. Each adds its own unique Italian-inspired twist to the cookies.

Is vegetable oil the best choice for this recipe?

Yes, vegetable oil keeps the cookies moist and tender without overpowering the delicate flavors. You can also use light olive oil for a subtle aroma, but avoid strong-flavored oils like extra virgin olive oil.

How thick should the glaze be before applying?

The glaze should be smooth and slightly thick but pourable—think of a consistency that coats the back of a spoon and drips slowly. Adjust by adding more powdered sugar if too runny or more cream/milk if too stiff.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

You can try a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, but results may vary. The texture might be slightly different, so I recommend experimenting with your favorite gluten-free blend and adjusting the liquid slightly if needed.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

This recipe doesn’t require chilling the dough, which makes it perfect for a quick bake. The dough is soft yet pliable enough to shape and bake immediately, saving you time without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

Making these Italian cookies has quickly become one of my favorite baking pleasures because they’re so delightful and approachable. There’s something heartwarming about the way simple ingredients come together to create such tender, flavorful bites. I truly hope you’ll try this Italian Cookies Recipe and enjoy the process as much as the delicious results. Happy baking and savor every sweet moment!