There’s something special about Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies) the way their aroma fills the kitchen makes everyone wander in for a taste. As they bake, you can almost feel the warmth of the season wrapping around you. Making these cookies isn’t just about creating a sweet treat; it’s about building connections, sharing stories, and embracing the spirit of holiday traditions.

These cookies are delightful, with a soft, cake-like texture and a hint of anise that dances on your palate. They’re not overly sweet but rather have a subtle flavor that is comforting and unique. Making these Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies gives you a chance to practice your baking skills while creating a treat that can become part of your own family traditions.

In this article, I’ll guide you through each step needed to make these delightful cookies, along with tips and tricks that will help you feel like a pro, even if you are a beginner in the kitchen. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Making This Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies)

Baking a batch of Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies is a delightful experience. This recipe marries simple ingredients with holiday cheer, creating a comforting treat that everyone will love. The method is straightforward, giving you confidence as you progress from mixing to baking.

One of the best parts of these cookies is how customizable they are. You can play with flavors and decorations, making them truly your own. The soft texture and warm spices make them a cozy addition to any holiday gathering. Plus, the memories made while baking -whether it’s with friends, family, or solo -will be cherished for years to come.

Baked with love, these cookies can be pulled out for gatherings, offered as gifts, or enjoyed during quiet moments with a cup of tea or coffee. The joy in making, sharing, and eating these cookies is what the holiday season is all about.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies)

“Cooking isn’t about perfection. It’s about enjoying every delicious step.”

Making Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies is a delightful journey through flavors and aromas. Let’s break it down step by step. Below you will find everything you need to know to make these cookies a reality in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies)

To create these lovely cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – use real butter for rich flavor
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar – this gives the cookies a light sweetness
• 2 large eggs – helps bind the ingredients and gives a soft texture
• 1 tsp anise extract (or vanilla, almond, or lemon) – adds a distinct flavor
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – the base for the cookies
• 1 tsp baking powder – provides lift to the cookies
• Pinch of salt – enhances overall flavor
• 2 tbsp milk – adds moisture to the dough
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar – for the glaze
• 2 tbsp milk – for thinning the glaze
• ½ tsp anise extract – in the glaze for an additional hint of flavor
• Festive sprinkles – to make your cookies look beautiful and inviting

Directions: Cooking with Confidence

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these traditional cookies, ensuring you feel supported along the way. Follow these directions closely, and soon enough, you will have lovely cookies to enjoy.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and creamy. This should take about 3 – 5 minutes.

2. Add Eggs and Extract: Crack the eggs into the bowl and add the anise extract. Continue mixing until it’s well blended and smooth. The mixture should look light and airy.

3. Mix in Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently. You want to combine them until just incorporated. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps.

4. Incorporate Milk: Pour 2 tablespoons of milk into the dough and mix until it’s fully incorporated. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

5. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set it in the refrigerator. Chill for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the cookies hold their shape and makes them easier to handle.

6. Preheat the Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

7. Roll Dough into Balls: After 30 minutes, remove the dough from the fridge. Using your hands, take small portions of the dough about 1 tablespoon each and roll them into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.

8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them. You’re looking for a light golden edge.

9. Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of anise extract until smooth.

11. Dip Cookies in Glaze: Once the cookies have cooled, dip the tops of the cookies into the glaze. Allow the excess to drip off before placing them back on the wire rack

12. Add Sprinkles: While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle your festive sprinkles on top. This adds a beautiful touch and makes them look even more appealing.

13. Let Set: Allow the glaze to set completely before storing or serving the cookies.

How to Serve Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies) and Make It Shine

When it comes to serving your Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies, there are several delightful ways to make them shine.

You can arrange the cookies on a pretty platter, garnished with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or mint for a pop of color. This small detail gives your display an elegant touch and a touch of holiday spirit.

These cookies also pair wonderfully with warm drinks. Serve them alongside a steaming cup of tea, hot chocolate, or even a glass of festive eggnog. The warmth from the drinks will enhance the cookie flavors, making each bite even better.

As a nice bonus, consider packaging some cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with a colorful ribbon. This presentation makes for lovely gifts or party favors, adding a personal touch to your celebrations.

How to Store Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies) for Later

Storing your cookies is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor. After glazing and sprinkles have set, follow these simple guidelines:

Room Temperature Storage: Place the cookies in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Refrigeration: If you want them to last a little longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to two weeks. Again, use an airtight container.

Freezing: These cookies freeze surprisingly well. To preserve their texture, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.

Clara’s Tips for Success

1. Use Real Butter: For rich flavor, always opt for real butter. Margarine can change the texture and taste of your cookies dramatically.

2. Don’t Skip the Chill: Chilling the dough helps maintain the shape of your cookies during baking. It’s worth the wait!

3. Experiment with Flavors: If anise isn’t your favorite, feel free to use vanilla, almond, or even lemon extracts. Each one brings its own unique essence to the cookies.

4. Ensure Consistent Sizing: Use a cookie scoop for even cookie sizes. This way, they will bake evenly, ensuring all cookies come out perfectly.

5. Adjust Baking Time: Keep a close watch on your cookies as they near the end of baking. Ovens can vary, and you want to avoid over-baking.

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Simple Variations to Try

While the traditional recipe is fantastic, there are fun and simple ways to adapt it:

• Add Nuts: Incorporate some finely chopped almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After glazing, drizzle some melted chocolate over the cookies for a rich twist that pairs beautifully with the anise.
• Spice Blends: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, festive flavor.

Each of these variations will give a new twist to your traditional cookies while keeping the essence of the recipe intact.

Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies)

Delightful and soft cookies with a unique anise flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings and family traditions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 42 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 100

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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For the Cookie Dough

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened Use real butter for rich flavor
• ½ cup powdered sugar This gives the cookies a light sweetness
• 2 large eggs Helps bind the ingredients and gives a soft texture
• 1 tsp anise extract Alternatively use vanilla, almond, or lemon
• 2 cups all-purpose flour The base for the cookies
• 1 tsp baking powder Provides lift to the cookies
• Pinch salt Enhances overall flavor
• 2 tbsp milk Adds moisture to the dough

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar For the glaze
• 2 tbsp milk For thinning the glaze
• ½ tsp anise extract For an additional hint of flavor in the glaze

For Decoration

• Festive sprinkles To make your cookies look beautiful and inviting

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together using a hand mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and creamy (about 3 – 5 minutes).
2. Crack the eggs into the bowl and add the anise extract. Continue mixing until well blended and smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated.
4. Pour in 2 tablespoons of milk and mix until fully incorporated. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
4. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Glazing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and anise extract until smooth.
2. Dip the tops of cooled cookies into the glaze and allow excess to drip off before placing them back on the wire rack.
3. While the glaze is still wet, add festive sprinkles on top.
4. Allow the glaze to set completely before storing or serving the cookies.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 100kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 50mgSugar: 7g

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can be refrigerated for two weeks or frozen for up to three months.

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FAQs About Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies)

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe keeps beautifully. You can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it or freeze it for later baking. Just be sure to thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.

What if I can’t find anise extract?
No problem! You can substitute with vanilla, almond, or lemon extract. Each will give a different flavor, but they will still be delicious.

How can I tell when the cookies are done?
Look for a light golden edge. They should still be soft to the touch. Remember, they will continue to bake a little as they cool on the pan.

Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! You can swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Just be sure to check that it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

What’s the best way to thaw frozen cookies?
Simply let them sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. This way, they will taste fresh when ready to enjoy.

Final Encouragement

I hope this Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies) recipe helps you discover how simple and rewarding homemade cooking can be. Each bite you take will be filled with warmth and traditions that can be shared with loved ones. You don’t have to be a professional baker to create something special. Trust in yourself, enjoy the process, and know that you’ve got this. Happy baking!