Italian Easter Cookies

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Italian Easter Cookies, or “Taralli,” are a delightful treat often served during Easter celebrations. These soft and slightly sweet cookies are flavored with hints of vanilla and lemon, offering a delicate balance of sweetness and zest. With their signature glaze and colorful sprinkles, they make a perfect addition to your holiday table or a thoughtful gift for loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Festive and Fun: Their colorful sprinkles and glossy glaze are perfect for the Easter season.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Family Tradition: These cookies are a cherished Italian tradition, adding nostalgia and culture to your celebrations.
  • Customizable: Adjust the flavorings, shapes, or decorations to suit your taste or holiday theme.

Ingredients

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

  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Eggs
  • Unsalted butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Lemon zest
  • Milk
  • Powdered sugar
  • Sprinkles

Directions

this recipe
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and baking powder.
  3. Create a well in the center and add the eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Roll the dough into small balls or shape them into traditional knots or rings. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely.
  6. To make the glaze, combine powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth.
  7. Dip each cookie in the glaze, then sprinkle with colorful sprinkles while the glaze is still wet.
  8. Let the cookies set until the glaze hardens.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Variations

  • Flavor Enhancements: Swap lemon zest for orange zest, or add almond or anise extract for a unique flavor profile.
  • Shapes: Experiment with different shapes like braids, rings, or twists to give your cookies a creative touch.
  • Colorful Glazes: Add food coloring to the glaze for a more vibrant and festive look.
  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and milk substitutes to make these cookies suitable for a vegan diet.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the unglazed cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
  • Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can warm them slightly in a low oven if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

2. Can I use a different glaze?

Absolutely! A simple chocolate glaze or even a drizzle of honey would work well with these cookies.

3. What can I use instead of sprinkles?

You can use crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or even edible glitter for decoration.

4. Why is my dough too sticky?

Add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is manageable but not dry.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Just ensure you have enough baking sheets and space.

6. Are these cookies supposed to be soft or crunchy?

Italian Easter Cookies are traditionally soft, with a slight chew.

7. Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can, but the texture will be denser, and the flavor will be nuttier. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for balance.

8. What type of sprinkles work best?

Nonpareils or jimmies are great options as they adhere well to the glaze.

9. How do I prevent the glaze from running?

Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before glazing, and use a thicker glaze consistency.

10. Can I add food coloring to the dough?

Yes, adding pastel colors to the dough can make the cookies even more festive for Easter.

Conclusion

Italian Easter Cookies are a delightful and versatile treat that brings a taste of tradition to your holiday celebrations. Their soft texture, sweet glaze, and vibrant decorations make them a family favorite. Whether you’re following a long-standing tradition or starting a new one, these cookies are sure to impress. Happy baking!

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Italian Easter Cookies

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These traditional Italian Easter cookies are soft, slightly sweet, and flavored with a hint of lemon. Perfectly festive, they’re often topped with a simple glaze and colorful sprinkles to brighten your Easter table. A nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and loved by all ages!

  • Author: ksuur
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

For the cookies:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the glaze:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3–4 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Assorted colorful sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
  2. Make the Dough:
    In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Shape Cookies:
    Scoop out small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll into balls. You can also shape the dough into twists or knots for a more traditional look. Place the cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  5. Bake:
    Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Make the Glaze:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner glaze if desired.
  7. Decorate:
    Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, then sprinkle with colorful sprinkles before the glaze sets.

Notes

  • For a citrusy twist, you can substitute orange zest for lemon zest.
  • These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

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