Description
Italian Toto Cookies are soft, chocolate-flavored traditional Italian treats known for their rich spices and tender texture. These cookies combine a blend of cocoa and warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, delivering a uniquely comforting dessert. Topped with a smooth vanilla icing, they offer a delightful balance of sweet and spice, making them a beloved classic perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, whole milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Create Dough: Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently to form a soft dough. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or almonds evenly.
- Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until they are set but still soft to the touch, indicating a tender crumb.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheets to firm up for icing application.
- Prepare Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.
- Ice Cookies: Dip the tops of cooled cookies into the prepared icing or spoon the icing over them evenly. Allow the icing to set completely before serving.
Notes
- These cookies are traditionally soft and cake-like in texture.
- Adjust the spices based on your personal preference for warmth and intensity.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days, maintaining their softness.
- For nut-free version, simply omit the chopped walnuts or almonds.
- The icing adds sweetness and a decorative touch but is optional if you prefer plain cookies.
