Italian Easter Cookies
These traditional Italian Easter cookies are soft, tender, and lightly sweetened, perfect for festive celebrations. Decorated with colorful icing and sprinkles, they delight both eye and palate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together shortening and sugar.
- Add eggs, one at a time, and continue to beat well.
- Add vanilla.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- If dough is too dry, add 1 to 3 tablespoons of milk.
- Pick dough about the size of a walnut and make a ball.
- Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes until set, avoiding browning.
- Let cookies cool slightly before icing.
- Ice with tinted pink and light green icing.
- Dip in sprinkles and allow to dry.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the shortening is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the shortening with unsalted butter. To enhance the cookies’ flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid browning, which is key for achieving the traditional look of these Italian cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian Easter cookies make a delightful treat for any spring celebration. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a lovely afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with Italian Frittata (Omelette) or as part of a festive dessert platter. Consider adding fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the sweetness when serving at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. To enjoy them later, thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven to restore their fresh texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Easter Cookies contains roughly 152 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 a different type of fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute half of the shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. However, using all butter may change the texture slightly, making them more fragile. If using margarine, ensure it is a stick variety for best results.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the cookies dense.
How can I achieve different colors for icing?
To achieve different colors for icing, divide your icing into separate bowls and add food coloring a few drops at a time until you reach the desired shade. Gel food coloring works best for vibrant colors without altering the icing's consistency.
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).