Heavenly Bites: Savor the Tradition with Buttery Italian Easter Cookies
Preparation Phase & Tools To Use
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Cookie sheets
- Cooling rack
- Piping bag (optional, for icing)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness.
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cookies rise.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, buttery flavor.
- 3 large eggs: Binds the dough and adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Adds moisture to the dough.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances flavor.
- For the icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles or colored sugar (for decoration)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add softened butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat with a mixer until well combined into a soft dough.
- Shape the dough into desired shapes (often twisted or formed into rings) and place on prepared cookie sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just golden.
- Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack.
- For the icing, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar if needed.
- Once cookies are cool, drizzle or spread the icing over them and decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar.
- Allow the icing to set before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 160 kcal per cookie
Servings: 24 cookies
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
- Source of energy from carbohydrates and fats.
- Contains small amounts of calcium and protein.
- The butter provides some vitamins like A and E.
Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe
- Overworking the dough: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Overbaking: Bake until just golden to maintain a soft texture.
- Icing consistency: Ensure the icing is thick enough to coat the cookies but thin enough to spread easily.
Conclusion Buttery Italian Easter Cookies are a delightful treat that embodies the joy and renewal of spring. These cookies, with their tender crumb and sweet icing, are perfect for Easter celebrations or as a delightful snack with tea or coffee. Enjoy the tradition and taste of Italy in every bite with these homemade cookies!