Italian Cookies(Grandma'S Recipe)
A delightful Italian cookie recipe featuring a tender, sweet dough infused with vanilla, filled with jam, coated in sesame seeds, and baked to golden perfection, ideal for sharing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar, eggs, and vanilla together until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients (flour) to the mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Shape the dough into loaves with a well down the center of each.
- Roll the loaves in sesame seeds and place jam in the center of the well.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven, cut into slices, and separate the slices.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer cookie, reduce the baking time slightly. You can substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter option. If sesame seeds aren't available, try using finely chopped nuts or coconut flakes for a different texture. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors. Ensure the dough is well mixed to avoid any dry spots before shaping.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian cookies are perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them alongside a light dessert like a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. They also pair well with Italian recipes such as Grandma's Famous Lasagna (Yield: 8-10 Servings) for a delightful meal. Dust with additional powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the slices individually in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Cookies(Grandma'S Recipe) contains roughly 842 calories, with 4g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 585mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the cookies may be denser. If you prefer a lighter texture, consider using a mix of both flours or adding an extra egg to maintain moisture.
What type of jam works best for the center?
Traditionally, fruit jams such as raspberry, apricot, or strawberry are popular choices. However, you can also use preserves or even lemon curd for a unique twist. Just ensure the jam is thick enough to hold its shape in the well.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).