Description
Buttery Italian Easter Cookies are a traditional delight, perfect for celebrating the holiday season. These soft, cake-like cookies have a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla and are topped with a sweet glaze and festive sprinkles. Whether enjoyed with coffee or as a holiday dessert, they are a must-have for Easter gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- For the Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and slightly flatten them with the bottom of a glass. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges turn light golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. For the icing, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the top of each cookie into the icing, then return to the rack and immediately add sprinkles. Allow the icing to set before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these cookies with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a delightful treat.
- Pair them with fresh fruit or a light dessert platter for a well-balanced holiday spread.
- Enjoy them slightly warm for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- For a festive presentation, arrange them on a platter and decorate with pastel-colored sprinkles to match Easter themes.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer a firmer texture, store them in the fridge for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Icing Consideration: If freezing, it’s best to add the icing after thawing to maintain its texture and appearance.
