Best 2 Tender Italian Sugar Cookie Recipes

In the realm of delectable treats, Italian sugar cookies, also known as Biscotti di Zucchero, stand out as an embodiment of simplicity and charm. These delightful gems originated in the kitchens of resourceful Italian home bakers who sought to utilize humble ingredients to create a sweet indulgence. With their crisp exterior and tender crumb, these cookies embody the essence of comfort and nostalgia. This article presents a collection of three enticing recipes, each offering a unique twist on the classic Italian sugar cookie. Embark on a culinary journey as we explore the secrets behind creating these delectable treats, promising an unforgettable baking experience.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

TENDER ITALIAN SUGAR COOKIE

Tender Italian Sugar Cookie image

I found these delicious little cookies in my Taste Of Home magazine..I am making them again tomorrow to freeze for Christmas..They are so soft and delicious...

Provided by Cassie *

Categories Cookies

Time 25m

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

3/4 c shortening
3/4 c sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 c all purpose flour
3 tsp baking powder
1/8 tsp salt
ICING
1/4 c milk
2 Tbsp butter, melted
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 c confectioners' sugar
food coloring and colored sugar, optional

Steps:

1. In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
2. Shape dough into 1 1/2 in. balls. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 400 degree for 8 - 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.
3. For Icing: In a small bowl, combine the milk, butter, vanilla and confectioners' sugar until smooth. Tint with food coloring if desired. Dip the tops of cookies in icing; allow excess to drip off. Sprinkle with colored sugar if desired. Place on waxed paper; let stand until set.

ITALIAN SUGAR COOKIES

Italian Sugar Cookies image

Soft and tender Italian Sugar Cookies are easy to make with just a few ingredients. Dipped in icing and topped with colorful sprinkles, these cookies are perfect for the holidays or any occasion.

Provided by Melissa Williams

Categories Dessert

Time 18m

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

3 cups all purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup vegetable shortening
3/4 cup white sugar
3 Eggs (at room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups powdered icing sugar
4 Tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
2 Tablespoons butter (melted)
1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
sprinkles (as desired)

Steps:

Preheat oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt. Set aside.
In another large bowl, using a hand mixer on medium, beat together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Beat in eggs and extracts for 30 seconds, then add half of the flour mixture. Beat until fully incorporated, then add remaining half of the flour mixture.
Use a cookie scoop to portion out the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets. For a more smooth appearance, you can roll the cookies into balls but that is optional.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, until just lightly golden and cookies start to crack on top.
Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting.
Whisk together powdered icing sugar, milk, melted butter, and your choice of flavor extract. Adjust the consistency with additional powdered sugar or milk, it should be thin.
Spoon approximately one tablespoon of icing onto each cookie. Come back and add sprinkles once the glaze has started to set (so the sprinkles don't just roll off).
Allow icing to set for 30 minutes before serving or storing.

Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 g, Calories 157 kcal, Carbohydrate 23 g, Protein 2 g, Fat 6 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, TransFat 1 g, Cholesterol 19 mg, Sodium 54 mg, Fiber 1 g, Sugar 13 g, UnsaturatedFat 4 g

Tips:

Use unsalted butter: This helps control the amount of salt in the cookies and prevents them from becoming too salty.
Chill the dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too much.
Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop helps ensure that all of the cookies are the same size and shape. This will help them bake evenly.
Bake the cookies until the edges are just beginning to brown: Overbaking the cookies will make them dry and crumbly. Baking them just until the edges are slightly browned will help them stay soft and chewy.
Let the cookies cool completely before storing them: This will help them keep their shape and prevent them from becoming too soft.

Conclusion:

These tender Italian sugar cookies are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. They are soft and chewy with a delicate sweetness that will satisfy your sweet tooth. These cookies are also versatile and can be decorated with a variety of toppings, such as sprinkles, nuts, or chocolate chips. If you are looking for a classic Italian cookie recipe that is sure to please everyone, then these tender Italian sugar cookies are the perfect choice.