Iced Italian Cookies Recipe
Description:
These delightful Iced Italian Cookies, originating from the cherished traditions of Italian American families, are a must-have at holiday gatherings and special occasions. Adapted from the beloved community cookbook “Preserving Our Italian Heritage” by the Sons of Italy Florida Foundation, this recipe is a fusion of variations contributed by five talented ladies, each adding their unique touch to the classic cookie base. Whether shaped into bows, braids, knots, or “s” shapes, these cookies promise to enchant your taste buds with their tender texture and delightful sweetness. The icing, customizable to your preference, adds a perfect finishing touch, inviting you to indulge in every bite.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 5327.4
- Fat Content: 199.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 121.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 864.3mg
- Sodium Content: 3975.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 804.9g
- Fiber Content: 13.6g
- Sugar Content: 411.8g
- Protein Content: 67.2g
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
| Step | Description | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cream butter and sugar until soft and creamy. | 5 min |
| 2 | Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well. | 5 min |
| 3 | Combine flour and baking powder, then blend into the butter mixture. | 5 min |
| 4 | Break off small, walnut-sized pieces of dough and shape into bows, braids, knots, or desired shapes. | 10 min |
| 5 | Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F until lightly browned, about 15-20 minutes. | 15-20 min |
| 6 | Cool on wire racks, then ice as desired. | 5 min |
| 7 | For the icing, blend powdered sugar with your choice of flavoring, adding milk slowly to achieve a soft, smooth consistency. | 5 min |
| 8 | Ice the cookies while warm or wait until they are cooled, then sprinkle with colored sugar or confettini (tiny multi-colored sprinkles) before the icing sets. | 5 min |
Recipe Yield: 1 batch of cookies (yield may vary based on shapes)
Recipe Tips:
- Experiment with different shapes and sizes to add visual appeal to your cookie platter.
- For a tangy twist, add a splash of fresh lemon juice to the icing.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
With this recipe, you’ll capture the essence of Italian culinary heritage and create cherished memories with each delightful bite of these Iced Italian Cookies. Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹🍪
