The Real Old Fashion Italian Cookies
Old-fashioned Italian cookies with a delicate anise or almond flavor, baked until golden, then glazed with sweet icing—perfect for holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together eggs, Crisco, sugar, vanilla, anise or almond flavoring, milk, flour, and baking powder to form a dough.
- Shape the dough into 'S' shapes or small braids.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until brown, about 8 minutes.
- Prepare glazed icing by mixing confectioners' sugar, water, and flavoring (almond or anise) to a paste consistency.
- Spread the icing on top of the cooled cookies.
- Optional: Add sprinkles to the icing before it sets.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. If you don’t have Crisco, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. When shaping the cookies, try to make them uniform in size for even baking. If you like a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. These cookies are reminiscent of classic Italian recipes, making them perfect for special occasions.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a cheese platter or with a scoop of gelato. They also pair beautifully with a light dessert wine. For a fun twist, try adding colored sprinkles to the icing for special occasions or browse more Italian recipes for additional serving ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Real Old Fashion Italian Cookies contains roughly 746 calories, with 15g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. However, the texture might vary slightly. Make sure the blend has a binding agent like xanthan gum to maintain the cookie's structure. Experimenting with whole wheat flour can also add a nutty flavor, but may require adjustments in the liquid content.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding zest from a lemon or orange to the dough. Alternatively, infuse the icing with citrus zest or a splash of liqueur like Amaretto. You could also experiment with different extracts, such as hazelnut or coconut, to create a unique twist on the classic recipe.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour at once, as this can make the cookies tough. A well-floured surface and hands will also help you shape the cookies more easily.
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).