Italian Easter Cookies

Italian Easter Cookies (commonly known as Cucidati or Taralli dolci depending on the region) are a traditional treat enjoyed during Easter. These cookies are often flavored with anise or citrus and have a delightful sweetness, sometimes glazed with icing and sprinkles. They’re perfect for celebrating the holiday!

Here’s a simple recipe for Italian Easter Cookies:

Italian Easter Cookies

Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon anise extract (or 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a citrus version)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Colored sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla and anise extract (or lemon zest for a citrusy flavor).
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
• If the dough feels sticky, you can add a bit more flour until it is smooth and manageable.

2. Shape the Cookies:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Take small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into 6-8 inch long ropes. You can also shape them into small round balls or twists if you prefer.
• Form the ropes into circles (making a small “doughnut” shape) or twist them into various shapes like pretzels or spirals.

3. Egg Wash and Bake:

• Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the shaped cookies for a golden finish when baked.
• Optionally, sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top of the egg wash for decoration.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.

4. Cool and Serve:

• Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
• These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

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Optional Glaze:

If you want a more festive touch, you can drizzle a simple icing glaze over the cookies once they’ve cooled:

• Glaze Ingredients:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk or water
  • A few drops of vanilla or almond extract

Mix the powdered sugar with the milk and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies and top with sprinkles.

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Italian Easter Cookies are an iconic treat, and they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends during the Easter season. Let me know how they turn out or if you need more variations!