Traditional Italian Easter Cookies: A Delicious Recipe to Celebrate the Season

Italian Easter cookies, also known as “Italian Easter biscotti” or “taralli dolci,” are a delightful treat enjoyed by families during the Easter season. These cookies are often flavored with citrus zest, vanilla, and sometimes anise, giving them a fragrant and aromatic taste. With a slightly crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness, they are perfect for accompanying a cup of coffee or tea during Easter gatherings.

Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for making Italian Easter cookies:

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup milk
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Colored sprinkles or nonpareils for decoration (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix well until the sugar is fully incorporated into the butter.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the milk, lemon zest, orange zest, and vanilla extract until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough gently until it comes together.
7. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a rope about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the ropes into 2-inch pieces and shape them into rings or twists.
8. Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
9. If desired, sprinkle the cookies with colored sprinkles or nonpareils for decoration.
10. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges.
11. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, these delicious Italian Easter cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a delightful treat during your Easter celebrations or package them as homemade gifts for family and friends.

Buona Pasqua! (Happy Easter!)

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