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Italian Christmas Cookies

Italian Christmas Cookies, also known as “Biscotti di Natale,” are delightful treats that embody the festive spirit with their rich flavors and beautiful decorations. Perfect for sharing, these cookies can be enjoyed with family and friends during the holiday season.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 90 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 electric mixer or whisk
  • 1 baking sheet
  • 1 parchment paper
  • 1 rolling pin
  • 1 cookie cutter (optional)
  • 1 cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or hazelnuts)
  • ½ cup candied fruit or raisins (optional)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat well until combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  • Fold in the chopped nuts and candied fruit or raisins if using. Mix until evenly distributed.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ½ inch thick. Cut out cookies using a cookie cutter or your chosen shape.
  • Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
  • Once completely cooled, dust with powdered sugar.

Notes

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
For a festive touch, you can dip the cookies in chocolate or sprinkle with colorful sprinkles after they cool.