Delightful Italian Wedding Cookies for Every Celebration

There’s a certain comfort that comes from a plate of freshly baked cookies, and Italian Wedding Cookies are the ultimate embodiment of that warmth. The moment you pull these delicate, lemon-scented treats from the oven, your kitchen fills with an inviting aroma that beckons friends and family to gather around. Traditionally served at joyous occasions, these cookies are much more than just a sweet snack; they carry a legacy of celebration and togetherness.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve turned to this recipe during family gatherings or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea. The glossy sweet glaze and playful sprinkles add a festive touch, making even the simplest day feel special. Ideal for cookie platters at weddings or holiday parties, these treats are a delightful expression of love and tradition. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s create some memories with this easy and irresistible recipe for Italian Wedding Cookies!

Why are Italian Wedding Cookies so special?

Traditional origins: These cookies are steeped in rich Italian cultural history and are often found at weddings, symbolizing love and unity.
Easy to make: Crafted with simple ingredients, even beginner bakers will find joy in whipping up these delightful treats.
Delightful icing: A sweet glaze transforms the cookies into a festive treat, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Flavorful twist: The harmonious blend of lemon and almond creates a refreshing taste that melts in your mouth.
Versatile treats: From casual family get-togethers to holiday festivities, these cookies bring a touch of elegance to any occasion!

Italian Wedding Cookies Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to bake these delightful treats.

For the Cookie Dough

• Eggs – Provides structure and moisture; use large eggs at room temperature for best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base for the cookie structure; gluten-free flour can replace it for a gluten-free version.
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create the glaze; substitute with granulated sugar if needed, but this may affect texture.
• Baking Powder – A leavening agent essential for light texture; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Shortening – Contributes to a soft cookie texture; you may also use butter as an alternative.
• Almond Extract – Provides that signature flavor; vanilla or anise extract can be used as substitutions.
• Lemon Extract – Adds a refreshing citrus note to enhance flavor; can be omitted if desired.

For the Glaze

• Confectioners’ Sugar with Milk – Mix this to form the sweet glaze; you can omit milk for a thicker consistency.
• Colored Sprinkles – Perfect for topping and visual appeal; alternatives like nonpareils or sanding sugars can be delightful too.

How to Make Italian Wedding Cookies

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

2. Beat the eggs: In a mixer, beat the large eggs on medium speed until they are light and foamy, about 5 minutes. This will add airiness to your cookie dough!

3. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder until well combined. This ensures a lovely structure in your cookies!

4. Mix in shortening: Gradually beat in the shortening along with the almond extract and lemon extract until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. This is where all that buttery goodness comes into play!

5. Incorporate eggs: Stir in the beaten eggs until the mixture forms a stiff dough. You’ll know it’s ready when it holds together nicely—like a soft playdough!

6. Roll the dough: Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. They’ll puff up a little while baking!

7. Bake the cookies: Pop them in your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Look for slightly brown bottoms while the tops stay pale; this means they’re just right!

8. Prepare the glaze: While the cookies are cooling a bit, mix together the confectioners’ sugar, warm milk, and extracts in a bowl until smooth. This glaze will make your cookies shine!

9. Glaze the cookies: While they’re still warm, dip each cookie into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on wire racks and sprinkle them generously with colored sprinkles!

10. Let them dry: Allow the cookies to dry for 24 hours in airtight containers. Patience is key for that perfect glaze!

Optional: Decorate with additional sprinkles for a more festive touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Italian Wedding Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature; this will help them whip up fluffier, leading to a lighter cookie texture.

• Proper Glazing Time: Dip the cookies into the glaze while they are still warm, as this helps the glaze to adhere better and creates a lovely finish.

• Watch the Baking Time: Be vigilant during the baking process; overbaking can lead to a dry cookie. Remove them when the bottoms are light brown for optimal softness.

• Storage Solutions: Store unglazed cookies in an airtight container to maintain their tender texture, or freeze for later enjoyment.

• Flavor Experimentation: For a delightful twist, try substituting the almond extract with anise or lemon to explore unique flavors in your Italian Wedding Cookies.

What to Serve with Italian Wedding Cookies?

These delightful treats are more than just a sweet indulgence; they create the perfect backdrop for cozy gatherings and lively celebrations.

• Fresh Berries: Juicy, sweet berries add a pop of color and freshness, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cookies.

• Espresso Coffee: The bold, rich flavors of espresso will elevate the cookies’ delicate sweetness, making for a delightful coffee break.

• Whipped Cream: This light and airy topping enhances the cookies’ texture while adding a creamy contrast that feels indulgent yet comforting.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful pairing; the creaminess complements the soft cookie beautifully.

• Sweet Tea: A warm cup of fragrant sweet tea offers a soothing balance, enhancing the lemon and almond notes in the cookies.

• Dark Chocolate: Rich dark chocolate creates a lovely contrast of flavors that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cookies.

Perfect for any gathering, these sides and drinks not only elevate the dessert experience but will also gather loved ones around the table, creating cherished memories.

How to Store and Freeze Italian Wedding Cookies

Room Temperature: Store dry, unglazed cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their tenderness.

Fridge: If you’ve glazed the cookies, keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks. Make sure they are well covered to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze unglazed cookie dough for up to one month. For glazed cookies, layer them with wax paper in between and store in an airtight container for up to three months.

Reheating: If you need to refresh your cookies, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy your Italian Wedding Cookies any time!

Make Ahead Options

These Italian Wedding Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 1 month—just roll it into balls and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To finish, bake them directly from the fridge or freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time as needed. This way, you’ll have delightful cookies ready for any occasion, maintaining their tender quality and sweet flavor!

Italian Wedding Cookies Variations

Customizing your Italian Wedding Cookies can create delightful surprises in flavor and texture that will tantalize your taste buds.

• Almond vs. Anise: Swap almond extract for anise to infuse a unique licorice flavor, perfect for those who crave something different. The warm, aromatic hint of anise can transform the overall essence of the cookies.

• Add Citrus Zest: Mix in fresh lemon or orange zest for an exciting citrus twist that brightens every bite. This will elevate the flavor profile and provide a zesty pop, making your cookies irresistible!

• Chocolate Drizzle: Top off your glossy glaze with a drizzle of melted chocolate for an indulgent finishing touch. This rich addition creates a luscious experience that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.

• Nutty Variation: Add finely chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts into the dough for a delightful crunch and added depth of flavor. The contrasting texture elevates these cookies to a new level of deliciousness!

• Coconut Flakes: For a tropical flair, incorporate sweetened coconut flakes into your cookie dough. This added chewiness and flavor creates a fantastic combination with your cookie’s base ingredients.

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing flavor. The same tender texture can still be achieved with the right blend!

• Spiced Touch: Incorporate a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm and cozy spiced flavor. These spices create a wonderful comforting aroma that will envelop your kitchen as the cookies bake.

• Sanding Sugar Topping: Use colored sanding sugar instead of traditional sprinkles for a more sparkly decorative touch. This creates an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for festive occasions or parties.

Italian Wedding Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Italian Wedding Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh, large eggs that are at room temperature. This helps create a light, airy texture in your cookies. When it comes to the extracts, choose high-quality almond and lemon extracts to ensure a robust flavor. Avoid any extract that has a strong artificial smell, as this can affect the overall taste of your cookies.

How should I store my Italian Wedding Cookies once baked?
I recommend storing your unglazed Italian Wedding Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’ve glazed them, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, but make sure they’re well covered to prevent them from drying out. This helps maintain their delightful softness!

Can I freeze Italian Wedding Cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! For unglazed cookies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container for up to one month. For glazed cookies, use wax paper to separate them in a container to prevent sticking, and freeze for up to three months. When ready, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky or too dry while making the cookies?
Very! If you find your dough is too sticky, first chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Make sure to add flour gradually if needed. Conversely, if your dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or water at a time until it holds together nicely. Remember, it should feel like a soft playdough consistency—easy to roll but not overly sticky!

Are Italian Wedding Cookies safe for people with allergies (like nuts)?
Definitely! While traditional recipes contain almond extract, if you have nut allergies or are preparing cookies for someone with allergies, feel free to substitute the almond extract with vanilla or anise extract for a different yet delightful flavor profile. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are free from allergens.