Why make this recipe

Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy and warmth to the holiday season. These soft, sweet cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends. They have a unique flavor, thanks to the ricotta cheese, which makes them stand out from regular cookies. Dipping them in icing and adding colorful sprinkles also makes them festive and fun for celebrations.

How to make Italian Christmas Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups confectioner’s sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 cup sprinkles

Directions:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter for 2-3 minutes until the color lightens.
3. Add the sugar and beat for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in the egg. Then, add the ricotta and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
5. Add the flour and baking soda to the mixing bowl. Beat until just mixed.
6. Portion the dough into tablespoon amounts. Roll the dough into balls and place them on the baking sheets, leaving two inches between each ball.
7. Bake for 13 minutes.
8. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 3 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, whisk the confectioner’s sugar and milk until smooth.
10. Dip the tops of the cookies into the icing and place them back onto the cooling rack. Immediately top with sprinkles.
11. Allow the icing to firm before packaging or storing.

How to serve Italian Christmas Cookies

These cookies are great for serving at holiday parties, family gatherings, or as gifts. You can arrange them on a festive plate or in a decorative gift box. They also pair nicely with coffee or hot chocolate, making them a perfect treat for cold winter days.

how to store Italian Christmas Cookies

To store the cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Tips to make Italian Christmas Cookies

• Ensure the butter is softened properly to create a smooth dough.
• Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour, as this can make the cookies tough.
• You can adjust the amount of sprinkles based on your preference. Get creative with colors for special occasions.

Variations

You can add different flavors to the cookies by mixing in almond extract instead of vanilla. For a twist, try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for added texture and taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?

Yes, low-fat ricotta cheese can be used, but it might change the texture slightly.

How long do these cookies last?

The cookies can last up to a week when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling into balls.