Church Italian Christmas Cookies

Festive and easy Italian Christmas Cookies are a holiday favorite! Soft, buttery cookies with almond glaze and colorful sprinkles, perfect for gatherings or gifting.

Prep time

15 minutes

Cook time

10 minutes

Total time

1 hour 25 minutes

Yield

24 cookies

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

½ cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs (room temperature)

2 teaspoons almond extract or anise extract

3 cups all-purpose flour

3 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

For the glaze:

2 cups powdered sugar

¼ cup whole milk

¼ teaspoon almond extract

Decoration:

sprinkles of your choice

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cream the butter and sugar until smooth.
2. Step 2: Add eggs and almond extract, mix until combined.
3. Step 3: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Step 4: Add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stir to combine.
5. Step 5: Chill dough for 1 hour.
6. Step 6: Preheat oven to 350°F, roll dough into balls, and bake 9–11 minutes.
7. Step 7: Cool completely before glazing.
8. Step 8: Whisk glaze ingredients, dip cookies, and decorate with sprinkles.

Notes

Make ahead by refrigerating dough overnight.

Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months.

Thaw before glazing for a fresh taste and glossy finish.