Italian cookies are a staple of any Italian gathering, from family celebrations to holiday parties. With their rich history and cultural significance, it’s no wonder that Italians take great pride in their baked goods. From classic biscotti to soft pizzelle, and from traditional wedding cookies to decadent chocolate-dipped treats, there’s an Italian cookie recipe to suit every taste and occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings or a delicious gift to share with friends and family, these 18 scrumptious Italian cookie recipes are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll take a journey through the world of Italian cookies, exploring flavors and textures that will transport you straight to the Tuscan countryside.
Classic Italian Almond Biscotti
Biscotti, a traditional Italian cookie, has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. These twice-baked treats are perfect for dipping in coffee, tea, or wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup almonds, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and sliced almonds.
3. Add softened butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a log about 12 inches long.
5. Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
7. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Slice logs into 1/2-inch thick slices.
8. Place biscotti slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Soft Anise Pizzelle Cookies
Traditional Italian cookies get a sweet twist with these soft anise pizzelle cookies. Crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside, they’re perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon anise extract
– 2 large eggs
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add anise extract and mix well.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ricotta Lemon Drop Cookies
These sweet and tangy cookies combine the brightness of lemon with the creaminess of ricotta, making them perfect for a springtime treat or a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, butter, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Chocolate Hazelnut Baci di Dama
These Italian treats are a classic combination of hazelnuts and chocolate, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This recipe yields 12-15 bite-sized goodies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) hazelnuts
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, grind hazelnuts until coarsely chopped. Add butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Process until smooth.
3. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture between your hands. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each ball.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow to cool completely before dipping tops in melted chocolate and finishing with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Traditional Italian Wedding Cookies
Traditional Italian Wedding Cookies Recipe
These classic Italian cookies are a staple at any wedding celebration, with their tender texture, sweet almond flavor, and delicate anise hint. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats, these cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves traditional Italian baking.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 teaspoon anise extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, almond extract, and anise extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Roll dough into small balls (about 1 inch/2.5 cm). Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Crunchy Amaretti Cookies
These crunchy cookies are a classic Italian favorite, made with almond flour and flavored with citrus zest. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) almond flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg white
– 1 teaspoon orange flower water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg white until frothy. Add orange flower water and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to egg mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough between parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vanilla Pignoli Cookies
A classic Italian cookie recipe, Vanilla Pignoli Cookies are a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These chewy cookies are filled with chopped pine nuts and topped with confectioner’s sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pine nuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioner’s sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pine nuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Glaze
These tender cookies are infused with the brightness of lemon and the creaminess of ricotta, topped with a sweet glaze that adds an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar for glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, ricotta cheese, and lemon juice.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Glaze:
– Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth.
– Drizzle over warm cookies and serve.
Chocolate-Dipped Cantucci
Elevate your Italian cookie game with the decadent addition of melted chocolate. These crunchy, almond-filled cookies are a perfect match for a velvety chocolate coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in ground almonds and confectioners’ sugar.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
9. Place dipped cookies on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Orange and Almond Ricciarelli
Ricciarelli are traditional Tuscan cookies that combine the sweetness of orange with the crunch of almonds. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a snack or as a dessert to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add orange zest, orange juice, and egg; mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in almonds.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch (2.5cm) space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Italian Fig Cookies (Cucidati)
These traditional Italian cookies are a sweet treat perfect for any occasion. Made with figs, anise, and spices, they’re soft, chewy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground anise
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, figs, baking powder, anise, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Gradually add dry ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Espresso Chocolate Chip Biscotti
Elevate your coffee break with these crunchy, flavorful biscotti infused with the richness of espresso and dark chocolate. Perfect for dunking or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon espresso powder
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and espresso powder.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide dough in half and shape each half into a 12-inch log.
7. Place logs on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between them.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing into biscotti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Taralli Dolci Cookies
Sweet Taralli Dolci Cookies Recipe
These Italian cookies are a classic treat that combines the sweetness of almonds with the crunch of tarallini crackers, perfect for a quick snack or dessert. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy these sweet and crunchy bites in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup tarallini crackers, crushed
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and almond extract.
3. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and mix until smooth. Fold in crushed tarallini crackers and sliced almonds.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cherry and Almond Amaretti
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift for friends and family. The combination of cherry and almond flavors creates a unique and delicious taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup almond meal
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, almond meal, and granulated sugar.
3. Add softened butter, egg whites, and almond extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped cherries.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Butter Hazelnut Cookies
These chewy cookies are elevated by the deep flavor of browned butter and the crunch of toasted hazelnuts, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and whisk in sugars until combined. Let cool slightly.
4. Whisk in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chopped hazelnuts and salt.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lavender Shortbread Italian-Style
Experience the sweet charm of Italy with this delicate lavender-infused shortbread cookie. The subtle floral flavor and tender texture will transport you to a Tuscan villa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add flour, lavender buds, and salt; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio and White Chocolate Cookies
Pistachio and White Chocolate Cookies: A Sweet Treat with a Nutty Twist
These chewy cookies combine the crunch of pistachios with the creamy sweetness of white chocolate chips, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in pistachios and white chocolate chips.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Rosemary and Olive Oil Cookies
These aromatic cookies combine the earthy flavors of rosemary with the richness of olive oil, perfect for a unique snack or accompaniment to your favorite herbal tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add olive oil and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Fold in chopped rosemary leaves.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 18 scrumptious cookie recipes. From classic biscotti to soft pizzelle and crunchy amaretti, there’s a treat for every occasion. Try the traditional Italian wedding cookies or the decadent chocolate hazelnut baci di dama. For a sweet and citrusy twist, opt for the lemon ricotta cookies with glaze. Or, go bold with the espresso chocolate chip biscotti. These recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a taste of Italy to your table.
