Easy Italian Easter Cookies Recipe

Easter is the perfect time to bake something special, and these Easy Italian Easter Cookies are a must-try! These soft, sweet cookies are flavored with a hint of anise and topped with colorful sprinkles—making them as festive as they are delicious. Whether you’re celebrating with family or looking for a fun activity in the kitchen, this recipe will become a holiday favorite.

Ingredients Needed

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon anise extract (or vanilla extract if preferred)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for a fresh twist)
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Colorful sprinkles (for topping)
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing the cookies)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Easter Cookies

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure the cookies bake evenly.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk everything together and set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Add the Eggs and Flavoring

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the anise extract (or vanilla extract) and lemon zest if you’re using it. Stir in the milk until the dough comes together.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into small balls, or shape them into traditional rings or figure-eight shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Brush and Top with Sprinkles

Brush each cookie with the beaten egg to give them a nice golden color when baked. Sprinkle colorful sprinkles over the top of each cookie for a festive touch.

Bake

Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Be careful not to overbake, as you want these cookies to stay soft.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve them fresh with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect Easter treat!

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

You can easily customize these Italian Easter Cookies to suit your taste. If you prefer a different flavor, swap the traditional anise extract for vanilla or almond extract for a unique twist. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cookies. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, try mixing in some finely chopped almonds or pistachios into the dough for added texture. Want to make them even more festive? Instead of the classic round shape, mold the dough into fun Easter-themed shapes like eggs, bunnies, or flowers for a playful and creative look.

Nutritional Information

These Italian Easter Cookies are a delightful treat, but as with any cookie, they should be enjoyed in moderation. On average, one cookie (about 2 inches in diameter) contains roughly 120-150 calories. If you’re looking to reduce the sugar or fat, you can try using a sugar substitute or reduce the butter by half, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect for sharing at your Easter celebration. Serve them on a platter alongside other traditional Easter treats like Easter bread, chocolate eggs, or fruit salad. They also make a lovely gift when packaged in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbons. Whether you’re gathering with family or hosting a holiday party, these cookies will be a hit!

Frequently Asked Questions