Italian Easter Cookies: Easy, Glazed, and Festive Recipe
Italian Easter Cookies, also known as "Taralli Dolci," are soft, cake-like vanilla cookies glazed with icing and colorful sprinkles. These festive cookies are a holiday tradition—easy to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for sharing with family. Slightly sweet with a tender crumb and a hint of lemon zest.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract optional
- Zest of 1 lemon
- For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 –3 tbsp milk
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, almond extract, and lemon zest.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls or ropes and form rings or knots.
- Place on baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cool slightly before dipping in glaze and adding sprinkles.
- Allow glaze to set before serving or storing.
Notes
- Dough may be slightly sticky—dust hands with flour if needed.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Add food coloring to glaze for festive variation.
- Almond extract is optional but adds authentic Italian flavor.
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