If there’s one treat that brings back sweet memories of springtime family gatherings, it has to be Italian Easter Cookies. These cheerful glazed cookies are as much a symbol of celebration as they are a delicious bite of nostalgia, thanks to their soft, cakey centers, hints of vanilla and almond, and a signature shower of colorful sprinkles. Whether you’re keeping cherished traditions alive or baking them for the first time, these cookies light up any holiday table with their warmth, beauty, and irresistible flavor.

Italian Easter Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Italian Easter Cookies is all about simplicity: just a handful of pantry staples transform into a festive showstopper. Each ingredient brings something special, creating cookies that are tender, flavorful, and fun to decorate.

All-purpose flour: This forms the sturdy base, ensuring the cookies hold their beautiful shape yet stay soft.
Baking powder: Delivers the perfect lift for a light, cakey texture.
Salt: A pinch enhances sweetness and balances the flavors.
Unsalted butter (softened): Gives the dough its rich, melt-in-your-mouth crumb, and creates that signature tenderness.
Granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to highlight the glaze without overwhelming the cookie itself.
Large eggs: Essential for structure and that uniquely fluffy, almost bread-like cookie interior.
Vanilla extract: A must for cozy, aromatic depth throughout each bite.
Almond extract (optional): For that classic Italian bakery flavor; a little goes a long way!
Milk: Brings the dough together and adds just the right amount of moisture.
Powdered sugar (for the glaze): Smooth and perfect for glazing, it creates the cookies’ irresistible, glossy tops.
Additional milk (for the glaze): Helps achieve the perfect, spoonable glaze consistency.
Vanilla extract (for the glaze): Infuses the finishing touch with fragrant sweetness.
Colorful sprinkles: An absolute must for the traditional Easter look and a touch of playful crunch.

How to Make Italian Easter Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Not only does this make clean-up a breeze, but it also guarantees the cookies lift right off after baking. Getting this step done first means your dough won’t have to wait—once it’s ready, you’re baking!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This evenly distributes the leavening, ensuring each cookie rises and bakes up soft and pillowy. Don’t skip the whisking—it’s key for even, delicate texture throughout your Italian Easter Cookies.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is the secret to those tender, melt-in-your-mouth centers that make these cookies so crave-worthy. Take your time—you want to see the mixture lighten in both texture and color.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures the dough stays smooth and glossy. Next, add the vanilla extract and, if you want that classic bakery note, a splash of almond extract. Each bit of flavor builds the cookie’s delicious aroma.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. If the dough seems too tough or dry, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk until it comes together. The dough should be pliable but not too sticky—perfect for shaping fun rings or twists.

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop out tablespoon-sized pieces of dough. Roll each one into a rope about 5 inches long, then shape it into a ring or a twist. Place the formed cookies onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for even baking. These fun shapes are a classic hallmark of Italian Easter Cookies—and they look beautiful on any table!

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching for a light golden hue on the bottoms but not too much color on top. The cookies should be set but still soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack—it helps them firm up just right without becoming dry.

Step 8: Glaze and Decorate

While the cookies are still slightly warm, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a smooth glaze. Dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze, then immediately sprinkle with colorful sprinkles so they stick. Set them back on the rack and let the glaze harden a bit—this is when they truly transform into showstoppers!

How to Serve Italian Easter Cookies

Garnishes

Italian Easter Cookies practically beg to be decked out with sprinkles, but you can also experiment with pearl sugar or finely chopped pistachios for a sophisticated twist. The classic bright sprinkles make these cookies a magnet for both kids and adults at any festive gathering.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a pot of fresh coffee, cappuccino, or a fragrant cup of tea for a traditional Italian treat. They also pair beautifully with light spring desserts like fresh fruit salad or a refreshing scoop of lemon sorbet, making your dessert table truly inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming brunch centerpiece, arrange Italian Easter Cookies in a large basket lined with a pastel napkin, or thread smaller cookies onto pretty ribbon to create edible garlands. Layering them on a tiered cake stand or serving them in glass jars also transforms your table into a colorful, irresistible display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature—they’ll stay soft and fresh for up to a week. Add a small slice of bread to the container to help maintain the cookies’ delightful softness.

Freezing

Italian Easter Cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store them in airtight freezer bags or containers. If you’re planning ahead, it’s best to freeze them unglazed and decorate after thawing for the freshest look and taste.

Reheating

If you like your cookies just slightly warm and soft, pop them (unglazed) in a 275°F (135°C) oven for 3 to 5 minutes. For previously glazed cookies, allow to thaw at room temperature—this keeps the glaze looking perfect and the centers super tender.

FAQs

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before shaping, as cold dough is easier to handle and shape into perfect rings or twists.

What can I use if I don’t have almond extract?

Vanilla extract alone works beautifully, though you’ll miss that hint of classic almond flavor. You could also try lemon extract or zest for a fresh, springy variation that’s still true to the spirit of Italian Easter Cookies.

How do I keep my glaze from running off?

For the best glaze, make sure cookies are just warm (not hot) before glazing, and adjust the glaze consistency with a touch more powdered sugar if it seems too thin. Letting the glaze set at room temperature will create that iconic soft-yet-set finish.

Can I double or halve the recipe?

Definitely! This recipe scales up or down with no problem. Just keep your eye on mixing and baking times—smaller or larger batches may need a little adjustment so all your Italian Easter Cookies come out perfect.

Are they suitable for people with nut allergies?

Yes! Simply omit the almond extract for a nut-free version. The cookies will still have their classic tender bite and plenty of lovely vanilla aroma.

Final Thoughts

Every batch of Italian Easter Cookies turns a simple afternoon of baking into a joyful celebration. Whether you share them with family or gift them to friends, these cookies carry an undeniable spirit of tradition and happiness. If you’re craving a sweet symbol of the season or just want to try something bright and festive, don’t miss the chance to bake a batch—you’re guaranteed to fall in love with each bite!