Italian Christmas Cookies are one of those timeless holiday treats that bring instant warmth and enjoy to any festive table. Soft, lightly sweet, and delicately flavored with vanilla or citrus, these cookies have been cherished for generations in Italian households. Their tender, cake-like texture paired with a glossy white glaze makes them not only delicious but also visually perfect for the holiday season. Finished with colorful sprinkles, they capture the magic of Christmas in every bite.

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, assembling a holiday cookie box, or looking for a simple yet classic Christmas recipe, Italian Christmas Cookies offer the perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and festive charm. Even beginners can prepare them effortlessly, thanks to the straightforward ingredients and foolproof method. Each bite feels nostalgic, comforting, and beautifully reminiscent of holiday celebrations filled with love and togetherness.

Ingredients of Italian Christmas Cookies

For the Cookie Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
• 2–3 tbsp milk, as needed

For the Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3–4 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Sprinkles, for topping

How to Make Italian Christmas Cookies

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar for 2–3 minutes until fluffy and pale.

Step 3: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Add 2–3 tbsp of milk until the dough becomes soft and pliable, but not sticky.

Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Bake for 10–12 minutes. The bottoms should be lightly golden, but the tops should remain pale.

Step 7: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach a slightly thin glaze consistency.

Step 8: Once the cookies are warm but not hot, dip the tops into the glaze. Add sprinkles immediately. Let the glaze dry for about 20 minutes before serving.

Storage and Freezing

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 10 days.

Freezing Dough: Freeze cookie dough balls for 1–2 months. Thaw before baking.

Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze without glaze for 2 months. Add glaze after defrosting.

Pro Tips 

Keep the dough soft – A soft dough ensures your cookies stay tender and cake-like. Avoid overmixing.

Don’t overbake – Bake just until the bottoms are lightly golden. Overbaking will make the cookies dry.

Add ricotta for extra softness – Incorporating ½ cup ricotta cheese gives an even more moist and fluffy texture.

Flavor variations – Try almond extract, orange zest, or lemon glaze for a different festive twist.

Glazing tips – Dip cookies while still warm, not hot, for a smooth and even glaze.

Use parchment paper – Prevents sticking and helps maintain the cookie shape.

Room temperature ingredients – Use butter and eggs at room temperature for a consistent dough.

Sprinkles timing – Add sprinkles immediately after glazing so they stick properly.

FAQs

Q: Why did my cookies spread too much?
A: Your dough may have been too soft. Add a little more flour.

Q: Can I make the glaze thicker?
A: Yes! Simply reduce the milk for a thicker coating.

Q: Can I replace butter with oil?
A: Butter is recommended because it gives better flavor and structure.

Q: Should I add sprinkles before or after baking?
A: Add sprinkles after baking on top of the glaze for best results.

Nutrition (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 95kcal
• Total Fat: 3.8g
• Saturated Fat: 2.3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 38mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14.8g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.3g
• Sugars: 8.5g
• Protein: 1.4g

More Cookies Recipes You’ll Love

• Italian Cannoli Cookies
• Valentine Shortbread Cookies
• Red Velvet Crumble Cookies
• Chocolate Heart Cookies
• Chips Ahoy S’mores Cookies 

Conclusion

Italian Christmas Cookies are the perfect combination of soft texture, sweet glaze, and festive charm. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party or making treats for your loved ones, this classic cookie recipe delivers warmth and joy in every bite. Simple ingredients and easy steps make it an ideal choice for bakers of all skill levels. With their beautiful Christmas colors and delicate flavor, these cookies will quickly become a holiday favorite in your home.