Pizzadata(Italian Christmas Cookies)

Prep: 30 min Cuisine: Italian

Italian Christmas cookies with a delicate, crumbly texture and subtle sweetness, perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges, appealing to those who enjoy traditional festive treats.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. flour
  • 1 lb. sugar
  • 1 lb. Crisco
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups cold water

Instructions

  1. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl.
  2. Cut in the Crisco until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add cold water gradually, just enough to hold the dough together.
  4. Chill the dough before rolling and baking.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the dough. If you don't have Crisco, unsalted butter can be a suitable substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. Ensure your water is cold to keep the dough firm and easier to handle. This dough can also be used for various Italian recipes beyond just cookies.

Serving Suggestions

These Italian Christmas cookies are delightful on their own, but you can enhance their presentation by dusting them with powdered sugar or serving them alongside a cup of hot cocoa. They also pair well with Italian beef and peppers for a savory-sweet contrast. For a festive touch, serve them on a platter with other holiday treats.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover pizzadata in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, let them come to room temperature or warm them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to regain their softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pizzadata(Italian Christmas Cookies) contains roughly 114 calories, with 2g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2231mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).

114 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.5g 5% DV
Total Fat 0.4g
Carbs 29.2g 11% DV
Fiber 5.1g 18% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 2231.4mg 97% DV
Potassium 283.7mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 41.2mg 46% DV
Calcium 293.9mg 23% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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 it may result in a denser texture. To maintain a lighter texture, consider using a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.

How do I know when the dough is properly chilled?

The dough should be firm to the touch and slightly hardened after chilling for at least 30 minutes. If it feels sticky or soft, give it more time in the refrigerator to firm up before rolling it out.

Can I add flavors or spices to the dough?

Absolutely! You can incorporate spices like nutmeg or cinnamon, or even citrus zest for added flavor. Just keep in mind that these additions may slightly change the dough's texture.

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).

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