Oh, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite recipes that fills my kitchen with warmth and joyous memories! They’re called Traditional Italian Lemon-Glazed Easter Cookies, and if you’ve never tried making them, you’re in for a treat (literally!). These cookies remind me of family gatherings during Easter, where the sweet scent of citrus and vanilla wafts through the air, making everyone smile. It’s a deliciously tangy nod to my Italian heritage that I love to share with friends and family.
As a kid, I would sit at the kitchen table with my grandma, helping her roll out the dough and cover the cookies in that lovely lemon glaze. I can still hear her infectious laughter and the lively chatter about life and family. This recipe is not just about making cookies; it’s about creating bonds and cherishing traditions. Plus, who doesn’t love a little cookie magic during the holidays? Let’s dive right in!
What’s in Traditional Italian Lemon-Glazed Easter Cookies?
All-purpose flour: The backbone of this cookie recipe, all-purpose flour gives that perfect texture. I love using King Arthur flour; it consistently yields good results for baked goods.
Sugar: A blend of granulated sugar adds sweetness to the dough, while powdered sugar makes the glaze extra delightful.
Baking powder: This little helper adds lift to the cookies, making them nice and fluffy. Always check the expiration date to ensure your cookies rise to perfection.
Butter: Ah, the magic ingredient! I prefer unsalted butter, as it gives me control over the salt levels. Plus, who can resist that buttery flavor?
Lemon zest: The key player in this recipe! Freshly grated lemon zest brings a bright, citrusy flavor that’s oh-so-refreshing. If you can, pick a couple of organic lemons for this!
Eggs: A must-have for binding the dough and giving the cookies structure. Make sure they’re at room temperature for optimal mixing!
Vanilla extract: A splash of pure vanilla is what dreams are made of in baking. A high-quality extract will enhance the overall flavor.
Milk: Just a splash in the glaze to achieve that drizzly consistency. I like to use whole milk, but any milk will work.
Is Traditional Italian Lemon-Glazed Easter Cookies Good for You?
Let’s keep it real—these cookies are definitely on the indulgent side. But, hey, life is too short not to enjoy a treat every now and then!
Butter: While butter adds richness and flavor, it’s also high in fat (good fats, but still). Moderation is key, especially if you’re watching your cholesterol.
Lemon zest: Packed with vitamin C, lemon zest not only elevates the flavor but also provides some nutrients. It’s like a little health bonus in your cookies!
On the flip side, these cookies are not gluten-free or sugar-free, so if you have dietary restrictions, you may want to explore substitutions or enjoy them as an occasional treat. Just remember, balance is everything in life—both on our plates and in our hearts!
Ingredients for Traditional Italian Lemon-Glazed Easter Cookies
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Zest of 2 large lemons
– 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon salt
– For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
– Zest of 1 lemon
*Yields approximately 24 cookies.*
How to Make Traditional Italian Lemon-Glazed Easter Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. It’s like giving your cookies a comfy bed to rest on!
2. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. It should take about 2-3 minutes. The fluffy texture is key, so don’t rush this step!
3. Gradually add in the eggs, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest, which will have you dreaming of sunny citrus groves!
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, combining until just blended. Nobody likes over-mixed dough—let’s keep it tender!
5. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. They’ll spread while baking, so give them some room to breathe!
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell AMAZING at this point, so get ready to drool!
7. While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by combining the powdered sugar, milk, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and drizzly.
8. Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over them with a fork or a piping bag for a precision touch. Allow the glaze to set before diving in!
Sweets Tips and Variations
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding poppy seeds to the dough for that classic Italian touch!
– For a richer flavor, let the cookies chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking — it enhances the taste even more!
– Want a different twist? Substitute the lemon with orange or almond for a delightful variation.
I can’t express enough how much you’re going to love these Traditional Italian Lemon-Glazed Easter Cookies! They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or just indulging in, and they bring a little bit of Italian charm to any table. I encourage you to give them a try and let me know how they turn out. Don’t forget to share the joy, because nothing brings people together quite like homemade sweetness! Enjoy baking, and happy (early) Easter! 
