Italian Wedding Cookies Recipe
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Italian wedding cookies are the perfect addition to any celebration. Known for their buttery, crumbly texture and coated in powdered sugar, these delightful treats melt in your mouth and leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re baking for a wedding, a holiday, or just a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies are a fantastic choice. Made with simple ingredients like butter, almond or walnut flour, and a touch of vanilla, they are easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
You can find variations featuring different nuts or even a vegan option using plant-based butter. Try adding a lemon glaze and sprinkles for a festive touch or sticking to the traditional powdered sugar coating. No matter how you make them, Italian wedding cookies are sure to impress your guests.
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
To make delicious Italian wedding cookies, you’ll need a few basic ingredients:
Unsalted Butter: 1 ½ cups. If you don’t have unsalted butter, regular butter works too.
Confectioners’ Sugar: ¾ cup. Powdered sugar is key for the sweetness and texture.
Salt: ¾ teaspoon. Regular table salt or sea salt can be used.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Adds a rich, sweet flavor.
Almond Extract: ½ teaspoon. For an extra boost of flavor, though you can skip this if you don’t have any.
Almond Flour: 1 cup. You can use finely ground almonds if almond flour is not available.
All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups. This gives the cookies their structure.
Optional Add-ins:
- Chopped Nuts: You can add in finely chopped walnuts, pecans, or more almonds if you like a bit of crunch.
Possible Substitutes:
If you need to make substitutions, here are some ideas:
| Original Ingredient | Substitute |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | Regular Butter |
| Confectioners’ Sugar | Granulated Sugar (though texture will change) |
| Vanilla Extract | Almond Extract (for a different flavor) |
| Almond Flour | Finely Ground Almonds |
| All-Purpose Flour | Gluten-Free Flour Blend |
You can also try experimenting with flavors by adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. Mix, bake, and enjoy your sweet treats!
Instructions
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups salted butter
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 1 cup ground almonds
- Pinch of salt
Steps
Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to cream together the butter and powdered sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Add Vanilla and Nuts: Mix in the vanilla extract and then gradually add the ground almonds, blending until everything is well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and a pinch of salt.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mix. Use your mixer on low speed until everything comes together.
Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Cookies: Bake for 15-20 minutes. The cookies should be set but not browned.
Cool and Dust: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
When making Italian wedding cookies, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.
First, always use high-quality butter. It gives the cookies a rich flavor and tender texture.
For even baking, make sure to preheat your oven to the right temperature and use a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Shape the dough into small crescents or balls. This classic shape helps the cookies bake evenly and hold their crumbly texture.
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes after baking. Then, coat them in powdered sugar while they are still slightly warm for the best coverage.
Storing your cookies properly will keep them fresh and tasty. For short-term storage, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh for a few days.
If you need to store them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag.
Avoid storing the cookies in a plastic container if they have a glaze, as it can make them too moist.
When ready to enjoy, you can let the cookies thaw at room temperature, and if needed, dust with a little extra powdered sugar.
By following these tips, your Italian wedding cookies will stay delicious and perfect for any occasion!
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to make Italian wedding cookies. You can change the flavors and add extra touches to make them your own.
Flavor Variations:
- Almond: Replace some of the flour with almond flour for a nuttier taste.
- Lemon: Add lemon extract or zest for a fresh, citrus flavor.
- Vanilla: Stick to classic vanilla extract for a simple, sweet taste.
Add-Ins:
- Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts can be chopped and added to the dough.
- Dried Fruit: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture.
- Chocolate Chips: Mini chocolate chips add a sweet surprise in each bite.
Serving Suggestions:
- Dusting: Sprinkle powdered sugar on top once the cookies are cool.
- Icing: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Tea Time: Serve them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Presentation Ideas:
- Gift Baskets: Pack the cookies in a decorative box or tin for a homemade gift.
- Holiday Platter: Arrange them on a festive platter for special occasions.
- Cookie Jar: Store them in a glass jar on your counter for easy snacking.
Feel free to experiment with these ideas to find your favorite version of Italian wedding cookies!
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.