Go Back

Italian Easter Cookies

Delightful Italian Easter cookies, known as 'Biscotti di Pasqua', are soft, cake-like treats embellished with colorful icing and aromatic flavors, perfect for sharing during celebrations.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon anise seeds optional
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Icing for decorating
  • Colored sprinkles optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
  3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Stir in the vanilla, almond extract, and zests of lemon and orange, and the optional anise seeds.
  6. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  7. Form small balls of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between.
  8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
  9. Once cool, decorate with icing and add colorful sprinkles as desired.

Notes

For best results, measure ingredients accurately, chill the dough if too soft, and feel free to experiment with flavors. Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.