Italian Christmas Cookies

Name: Italian Christmas Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese; 2 cups confectioners' sugar; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 tablespoons milk; Christmas sprinkles (red, green, and white nonpareils)

By:

Sarah

Published:

November 1, 2025

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Italian Christmas Cookies are a beloved treat that fills the air with the sweet scent of joy during the holiday season. Made with creamy ricotta cheese and colorful sprinkles, these cookies bring a delicious twist to traditional recipes. The combination of rich flavors and festive decorations makes baking these cookies a fun activity for all. Plus, it’s a great way to create lasting memories with loved ones in the kitchen.

As you whip up a batch, imagine the delightful moments spent sharing these cookies at holiday gatherings. Trust me, the soft texture and sweet taste will make them a hit with everyone, young and old alike. So, whether you’re adding them to your cookie platter or gifting them in bright packages, Italian Christmas Cookies are bound to bring smiles and warmth. Let’s gather around the kitchen and get started on these scrumptious treats together!

Why This Recipe Works

Italian Christmas Cookies blend the richness of creamy ricotta with the festive charm of colorful sprinkles. This combination isn’t just for aesthetics; it creates a cookie that is soft, moist, and bursting with flavor. The inclusion of ricotta sets these cookies apart from others, as it adds a depth that traditional butter-based recipes simply can’t match. During the bustling holiday season, these cookies become more than just a treat; they embody warmth, love, and celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Christmas Cookies

You’ll adore these Italian Christmas Cookies for so many reasons! First, they are not just tasty; they also evoke nostalgic feelings, connecting generations. Imagine gathering with family, sharing stories while enjoying these cookies: the laughter, the memories. Their soft texture and beautiful finish make them an instant favorite, sure to stand out on any cookie plate. Plus, whether you’re a seasoned baker or cooking up your first batch, the process is enjoyable, making it an adventure for everyone involved.

Ingredients

To make these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 tablespoons milk
– Christmas sprinkles (red, green, and white nonpareils)

Preparing the Cookie Dough

Mixing Dry Ingredients

Let’s kick things off by mixing our dry ingredients. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step ensures your cookies will turn out perfectly.

Creaming Butter and Sugar

Next, move to a large mixing bowl to cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 3/4 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. This is a key step that makes your cookies light and tender.

Incorporating Eggs and Ricotta

After that, add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Make sure to mix well after adding each egg. Then, blend in 15 ounces of whole milk ricotta cheese and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. The ricotta adds such a unique richness!

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Do this in small batches, stirring just until everything is incorporated. This will help maintain the cookies’ light texture.

Chilling the Dough

Once your dough is mixed, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Chilling the dough is essential as it helps the cookies maintain their shape and makes the dough easier to work with.

Baking the Cookies

Preheating the Oven

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with Silpat liners or parchment paper. This will keep your cookies from sticking.

Scooping the Dough

When the dough is ready, use a cookie scoop or two spoons to portion out 1 tablespoon-sized balls. Place these on your prepared baking sheets, ensuring they’re at least 2 inches apart. Giving them room to spread is crucial!

Baking Time

Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms turn golden brown. After baking, let them cool on the baking sheet for 1-2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents them from breaking.

Making the Icing

Whisking Ingredients Together

While the cookies cool, switch gears to prepare the icing. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar, 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, 4 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. This icing is what adds that delightful finish!

Icing the Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Hold each cookie upside down and dip the top into the icing. After dipping, place it back on the wire rack, right-side up, and sprinkle with festive Christmas sprinkles before the icing sets. Do this for all your cookies and watch them come to life!

Serving Suggestions

These Italian Christmas Cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering. Serve them alongside a warm cup of cocoa, or package them in festive bags for a sweet gift. Their charm will surely brighten up any occasion, filling your home with cheer.

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is at room temperature; this helps achieve the best mixing results.
Don’t skip chilling the dough; it makes handling much easier.
The sprinkles? They’re essential! They really amp up the festive spirit.

Variations

For a twist on tradition, consider adding a dash of almond extract for a different flavor or mix in some chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. These variations can give your cookies a delightful personal touch!

Storage Tips

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a freezer-safe container once solid.

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy your cookies with a spiced chai or a rich espresso. The warm flavors complement the sweetness perfectly, enhancing the holiday spirit.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture may be less rich.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and you’re set!

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Definitely! Just portion and wrap tightly to keep it fresh.

4. How long do these cookies last?
They’ll stay fresh for up to a week in an airtight container.

5. What’s the best way to store iced cookies?
Let the icing set completely before storing them in a single layer to avoid sticking.

Italian Christmas Cookies are more than just treats; they embody the essence of the holiday season. Their delightful flavors and charming appearance make them a cherished addition to any celebration. Enjoy the process of baking and sharing these cookies with friends and family, creating memories that will last a lifetime!