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Traditional Italian Christmas cookies cut into festive shapes on a baking sheet.

Italian Christmas Cookies


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5 from 11 reviews

Description

These traditional Italian biscuits utilize the classic pasta frolla method to create a tender, structured crumb perfect for festive shapes. By emphasizing temperature control and a dual-chilling process, this recipe delivers a sophisticated, lightly sweet treat rooted in historical baking science.


Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cups All-Purpose Flour
  • ½ cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 1 Large Egg
  • 1 Egg Yolk
  • ½ cup + 1 tablespoon Cold Salted Butter, cubed


Instructions

  1. Sift the flour, sugar, and baking powder into a large bowl to aerate and distribute the leavening.
  2. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the lightly beaten egg, egg yolk, and cold cubed butter.
  3. Incorporate the fats into the flour using a mixer paddle on low speed or by rubbing with fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
  4. Move to a floured surface and knead gently just until a soft dough ball forms.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes to hydrate the flour and firm the fats.
  6. Roll the dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes, working quickly to keep the dough cool.
  7. Place cut shapes on parchment and chill again while preheating the oven to 350°F (180°C), then bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are barely golden.

Notes

For the most consistent results, ensure your butter remains cold throughout the mixing process to prevent a greasy texture. If your kitchen is particularly warm, consider chilling your rolling pin and work surface to maintain the dough’s structural integrity before baking.

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 12 mins
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian