Classic Italian cookies have a way of bringing warmth and affection to any occasion. I first encountered these delightful treats at a family gathering, and instantly knew they were destined to be a staple in my own kitchen. Their soft, cake-like texture combined with the delightful crunch of sprinkles creates a joyous bite that feels like a hug in cookie form. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a festive gathering, or simply indulging on a quiet afternoon, making these cookies from scratch is truly rewarding.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

What makes these Italian cookies so special? For starters, they are incredibly easy to whip up, requiring only a few staple ingredients commonly found in most kitchens. They’re not just a treat for the taste buds; their charming appearance adorned with rainbow nonpareils makes them perfect for any celebration or gathering. Plus, the use of almond extract lends a unique flavor that takes these cookies to another level, distinguishing them from everyday cookies.

"These cookies are the highlight of our holiday gatherings! Soft, delicious, and the perfect amount of sweetness. The kids can’t get enough of the sprinkles!" — Happy Baker

The Cooking Process Explained

Creating these classic Italian cookies is a straightforward endeavor. First, you’ll begin by beating the butter and sugar until they are perfectly light and fluffy, setting the foundation for an irresistibly tender cookie. Next comes the addition of eggs, milk, and almond extract, making the dough come together in a luxurious way. After a brief rest in the refrigerator, you’ll roll the dough into balls and bake them to golden perfection. Once cooled, they’re dipped in a simple glaze, and a sprinkle of nonpareils makes them irresistibly festive.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the key ingredients you’ll gather to make these delightful cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 3 tbsp whole milk
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 2-3 tbsp whole milk (for glaze)
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (for glaze)
• Rainbow-colored nonpareil sprinkles

Feel free to tweak the recipe according to your preferences, like substituting vanilla extract for almond if you’d like to try a different flavor.