Soft Italian Easter Cookies (Printable Version)
Soft cookies with colorful glaze and sprinkles, ideal for festive gatherings and sharing.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 -
3 cups all-purpose flour
02 -
2 teaspoons baking powder
03 -
¼ teaspoon salt
04 -
¾ cup granulated sugar
→ Wet Ingredients
05 -
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
06 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 -
2 teaspoons almond extract
08 -
3 large eggs, room temperature
→ Glaze
09 -
1 cup powdered sugar
10 -
3 tablespoons milk or cream
11 -
1 teaspoon almond extract
12 -
liquid food coloring (as desired)
13 -
sprinkles (for decoration)
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
02 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
03 -
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
04 -
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on medium-low speed after each addition until fully incorporated.
05 -
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
06 -
Using a medium cookie scoop (approximately 1½ tablespoons), portion dough, then shape into balls with hands. Arrange them about 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
07 -
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cookies to rest on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
08 -
Whisk powdered sugar, milk or cream, and almond extract in a small bowl until smooth and lump-free.
09 -
Divide glaze into separate bowls and tint each with desired food coloring.
10 -
Dip cooled cookies into glaze, decorate with sprinkles, and allow glaze to set. For intensified color, dip cookies twice.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Ensure eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
02 -
Allow cookies to cool fully before glazing for better glaze adherence.
03 -
Double dipping enhances glaze color depth.