Description
Welcome to the festive world of Italian Cookie Bites! This recipe is a celebration of sweet flavors packaged in tiny, delectable treats. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a fun baking project with family, these cookies blend the aromatic charm of vanilla and almond extracts with a visual allure of colorful sprinkles. Simple yet elegant, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any event.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Sprinkles for decoration
Step-by-step Directions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies do not stick and are easy to remove.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, vigorously cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps in forming the texture of the cookies.
3. Incorporate Eggs and Extracts
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Afterwards, stir in the vanilla and almond extracts for flavor.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix will help in evenly distributing the raising agent within the cookies.
5. Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mix, stirring until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can result in tough cookies.
6. Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten each ball. Bake them for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden. Let them cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. Glaze and Decorate
In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth to create a glaze. Dip the top of each cookie into the glaze, then finish with sprinkles. Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing.
Servings & Preparation Time
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate to extend shelf life.
- Freezing: Freeze the unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing and decorating.
Conclusion
This Festive Italian Cookie Bites recipe is perfect for any occasion where you wish to bring a touch of joy and sweetness. Easy to prepare and universally enjoyed, these cookies offer a delightful mix of flavors that are sure to impress. The versatility in decoration also makes this treat adaptable to any themed event or personal preference. Bake, decorate, and enjoy the festive spirit with every bite!
Print
Festive Italian Cookie Bites
- Total Time: 16 minute
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Welcome to the festive world of Italian Cookie Bites! This recipe is a celebration of sweet flavors packaged in tiny, delectable treats. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a fun baking project with family, these cookies blend the aromatic charm of vanilla and almond extracts with a visual allure of colorful sprinkles. Simple yet elegant, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any event.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, flatten slightly, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Mix powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze, dip the cookies, and decorate with sprinkles.
- Let the glaze set before serving or storing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes