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Italian Christmas Cookies

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Italian Christmas Cookies, known as Anginetti, are soft, lemon-flavored treats traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season. Topped with a simple glaze and colorful sprinkles, they add a festive touch to any cookie platter.

Ingredients

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For the cookies:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the glaze:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk (more as needed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
  • Colorful sprinkles, for decoration

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
    • Mix in the vanilla and lemon extracts.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  2. Chill the Dough:
    • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make it easier to handle.
  3. Shape and Bake:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
    • Roll tablespoons of dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
    • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
    • Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on wire racks.
  4. Prepare the Glaze:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and lemon extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the cookies but still pourable. Adjust the consistency with additional milk if necessary.
  5. Glaze and Decorate:
    • Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
    • Place the glazed cookies back on the wire racks.
    • Immediately sprinkle with colorful sprinkles before the glaze sets.
  6. Set and Serve:
    • Allow the glaze to set completely before serving or storing the cookies.

Notes

  • These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  • For a different flavor, anise extract can be used in place of lemon extract.

Find it online: https://recipe.newsvks.com/italian-christmas-cookies/