Imagine the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen, transporting you straight to Italy. These delightful treats are not just delicious; they carry a story and a tradition that makes each bite special. So, grab your apron and let’s explore these simple yet scrumptious Italian cookie recipes that you’ll love to whip up in no time!
Biscotti
Italian Cookies from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Eggs, baking powder, all purpose flour, white sugar, vanilla extract Total Time: 35 min.
Italian Cookies from Sugar Spun Run
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Powdered sugar, milk, baking powder, vanilla, salted butter Total Time: 28 min.
Italian Cookies (Vanilla or Anisette) from Cooking with Mamma C
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: Light corn syrup, eggs, baking powder, salted butter, all purpose flour Total Time: 1 hr 45 min.
Biscotti are twice-baked cookies that are crunchy and perfect for dunking in your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The classic flavor of almond pairs beautifully with the cookie’s crispy texture, making each bite a delightful crunch. What makes biscotti so popular is their versatility; you can add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even spices to create your own signature twist!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole almonds, toasted
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the eggs and almond extract, mixing until a dough forms.
- Fold in the toasted almonds until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough into a log about 12 inches long and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the log is golden brown. Let it cool for 10 minutes.
- Using a serrated knife, slice the log diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces.
- Arrange the slices cut side up back on the baking sheet and bake for another 15 minutes, or until crisp.
- Let cool completely before enjoying!
Amaretti
These delightful cookies are soft and chewy on the inside with a crisp exterior, offering a burst of almond flavor that makes them truly irresistible. Amaretti are made primarily with almond flour, making them gluten-free and perfect for any occasion. Their unique texture and flavor have made them a staple in Italian households, and once you taste them, you’ll see why!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix almond flour and sugar together.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites and almond extract into the almond flour mixture until just combined.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on a wire rack before indulging!
Cartellate
Cartellate pugliesi, la ricetta originale del dolce di Natale from Dissapore
Rating: 4.4. Ingredients: 1 h 5 min Total Time: 1 h 5 min.
Cartellate are traditional Italian cookies that are shaped like little roses and drizzled with honey, making them perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. These cookies are slightly crunchy yet soft, with a hint of cinnamon that warms your heart. Their beautiful shape and delightful flavor make them a beloved treat during the holidays in Italy!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Honey for drizzling
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, olive oil, and white wine to form a soft dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Roll out the dough into thin sheets and cut into strips about 1 inch wide.
- Twist each strip into a spiral shape and pinch the ends to form a rose.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat, and fry the cartellate until golden brown.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Zeppole
These fluffy, fried dough balls are a carnival favorite in Italy, often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions. Zeppole are light and airy, dusted with powdered sugar, and sometimes filled with creamy custard or sweet jelly. What makes zeppole so loved is their delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, tender inside—it’s a texture experience you won’t want to miss!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- Pinch of salt
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in the flour until the mixture forms a ball.
- Let it cool slightly, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Scoop tablespoons of the dough and gently drop them into the hot oil, frying until golden brown.
- Remove zeppole from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy warm!