Italian Easter cookies, also known as “Italian Easter biscotti” or “Taralli Dolci di Pasqua,” are a delightful treat enjoyed during the Easter season.
These cookies are traditionally made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and flavored with lemon zest or vanilla.
They are often shaped into rings or knots, symbolizing the circle of life and the resurrection.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
1. Mixing the Dough:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and lemon zest.
Make a well in the center and add the eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract.
Mix until a smooth dough forms.
2. Shaping the Cookies:
Take small portions of dough and roll them into ropes about 5 inches long.
Shape them into rings or knots and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Baking:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Glazing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
Dip the cooled cookies into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off, then place them back on the wire rack.
If desired, decorate with sprinkles while the glaze is still wet.
5. Serving:
Once the glaze has set, serve these delicious Italian Easter cookies and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Nutritional Facts
Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 3g
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I substitute the lemon zest with orange zest?
Yes, you can substitute lemon zest with orange zest for a slightly different flavor profile.
2. How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
3. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies before or after glazing them. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make these cookies without eggs?
You can try using an egg substitute like mashed bananas or applesauce, but it may slightly alter the texture of the cookies.
5. Can I omit the glaze?
Certainly! The cookies are delicious even without the glaze, or you can dust them with powdered sugar instead.