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Assorted Italian Easter cookies with vibrant colors and decorations.

Italian Easter Cookies

These buttery and soft Italian Easter cookies are decorated with glossy pastel icing and colorful sprinkles, perfect for festive gatherings or as a delightful treat for kids to decorate.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Total Time 39 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the cookie dough
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature Use high-quality European-style butter for better flavor.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Helps with browning and tenderness.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature Ensure they are at room temperature for better emulsification.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Sifted for better texture.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the icing
  • 3 cups powdered sugar Sifted for smooth glaze.
  • 2-4 tablespoons whole milk Add gradually to reach desired consistency.
  • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup Adds shine and helps prevent crystallization.
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract For icing flavor.
  • Gel food coloring (purple, pink, blue, yellow) For decorating.
  • Rainbow sprinkles For decoration.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then beat in the vanilla and almond extracts.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Add the sifted dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture alternately, beginning and ending with flour.
  6. Shape the dough into logs and twist into knots or donut shapes.
  7. Bake for 9 minutes or until the bottoms are just golden. Cool completely.
  8. Prepare the icing by whisking the powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and almond extract until smooth.
  9. Color the icing as desired and decorate with sprinkles.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can freeze logs for up to 3 months.