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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!

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.