Irresistibly Festive: Easy Italian Easter Cookies Recipe

Published: February 17, 2026

by Sally

Why are Italian Easter Cookies a must-try?

Festive Appeal: These cookies infuse a touch of color with vibrant icing and rainbow sprinkles, making them perfect for any celebration.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create these scrumptious treats, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
Flavorful Combination: The delightful blend of vanilla and almond extracts offers a rich taste that will leave everyone craving more.
Quick Baking Time: Ready in under 10 minutes, these cookies are ideal for last-minute holiday baking!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their beautiful presentation and delicious flavor make them a hit with both kids and adults at any gathering.
Make this Easter memorable with these cheerful, delicious Italian Easter Cookies!

Italian Easter Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter – essential for a rich and creamy texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the cookies perfectly for that satisfying bite.
• 2 large eggs – contribute moisture and help bind the dough together.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – adds a classic flavor that complements the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract – enhances the cookies with a delightful nutty taste.
• 2 tablespoons whole milk – keeps the dough moist and workable.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – the base that gives structure to these delightful cookie shapes.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – ensures your cookies rise and have a fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

For the Icing
• 3 cups powdered sugar – provides the necessary sweetness for a luscious icing.
• 2-4 tablespoons whole milk – adjust for your desired icing consistency.
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup – adds shine and helps the icing set nicely.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract – mirrors the flavor in the cookies for cohesion.
• gel food coloring (purple, pink, blue, yellow) – bring vibrancy and fun to your Easter cookies!

For the Topping
• rainbow sprinkles – these will add a festive touch that kids and adults will love.

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of flavor and creativity as you whip up these irresistible Italian Easter Cookies!

How to Make Italian Easter Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick!
Cream together the butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is creamy and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, incorporating the vanilla and almond extracts until well blended.
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Stir until everything is just combined, creating a soft dough.
Shape the dough by forming roughly 1.5 tablespoons into logs about 6-7 inches long. Twist them into delightful knots or donuts, showcasing your creativity!
Bake the cookies for about 9 minutes, or until the bottoms are just golden brown. After baking, cool them completely on a wire rack to maintain their fluffy texture.
Whisk together the icing ingredients in a bowl. Divide the icing into smaller bowls and use gel food coloring to tint them vibrantly. Dip the cooled cookies into the icing and top with rainbow sprinkles for added fun!

Optional: Add a sprinkle of edible glitter for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Italian Easter Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and soft.

Fridge: For extended freshness, place the cookies in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: Freeze uniced cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature and decorate as desired.

Reheating: If you’d like your cookies slightly warm, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Italian Easter Cookies!

Expert Tips for Italian Easter Cookies

Perfect Texture: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for creamy mixing, which helps the cookies rise beautifully and maintain a soft interior.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent tough cookies. The goal is a tender, fluffy bite that everyone will love.
Consistent Shaping: Make sure all dough logs or knots are uniform in size. This ensures even baking and a beautiful presentation.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool completely before icing; this prevents the icing from melting and losing its shape, keeping the festive look intact.
Icing Variation: Feel free to get creative with the gel food coloring. A two-tone or marble effect can make your Italian Easter Cookies even more eye-catching!

Make Ahead Options

These Italian Easter Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making your Easter celebrations a breeze! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, shape it into knots or donuts, and then bake as directed. The cookies can also be iced up to 3 days ahead; just keep the decorated cookies in a single layer in a sealed container to maintain their beautiful appearance and flavor. Trust me, they’ll be just as delicious as if made fresh, saving you time on busy holiday mornings!

Italian Easter Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful cookies for your family and friends!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix to make these cookies celiac-friendly and just as delicious!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and a dairy-free milk alternative to replace the butter and whole milk, keeping it vegan but creamy.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavor profile beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios into the dough for a lovely texture contrast and rich, nutty flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Dip your iced cookies in melted chocolate or drizzle with chocolate for an indulgent touch that pairs perfectly with the almond flavor.
Spice It Up: Add in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spice-infused cookie that’s perfect for the season.
Heat It Up: For a little adventure, add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the icing, creating a delightful sweet and spicy contrast that tantalizes the taste buds.
Festive Shapes: Use different cookie cutters to shape your dough—think bunnies, eggs, or flowers—for extra charm and creativity in your Easter festivities!

What to Serve with Italian Easter Cookies?

Embrace the spirit of celebration by creating a delightful spread that enhances the sweetness of these colorful treats.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness, adding a refreshing touch to your dessert table. Pairing bright berries and juicy citrus complements the cookies beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream brings a luscious texture that pairs perfectly with the crunchy icing of the cookies. A dollop beside each cookie creates a charming presentation.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee make a perfect pairing with the sweet, almond-infused cookies, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere to enjoy them. It’s a delightful way to transition from sweet to aromatic.
Mini Carrot Cake Bites: Adding these moist, spiced bites echoes the Easter theme while their cream cheese frosting contrasts with the cookies’ flavors, creating a delightful harmony.
Lavender Lemonade: This refreshing drink offers a floral note that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cookies. Its zesty flavor brings a lovely lightness to your festive spread.
Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The richness of dark chocolate paired with ripe strawberries provides a sophisticated touch that enhances your dessert display, balancing sweetness with indulgence.
Bourbon Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, serve these cookies with a scoop of bourbon vanilla ice cream. The creamy, rich vanilla flavor pairs wonderfully with the cookies’ crunch.
Almond Milk: A creamy, dairy-free option, almond milk echoes the baking flavors, keeping the overall experience light and fresh. Perfect for guests who enjoy a plant-based drink!
Lemon Curd Tartlets: These zesty treats will bring a burst of citrus flavor to your table and beautifully contrast with the sweetness of the Italian Easter Cookies, making each bite a standout!

Italian Easter Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right level of ripeness for ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Italian Easter Cookies, use fresh, room-temperature eggs. Check your butter to ensure it’s softened but not melted, creating that creamy texture you want. Milk should be fresh, and opt for high-quality extracts for a richer taste.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very! Keep your Italian Easter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. This helps to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.

Can I freeze Italian Easter Cookies?
Of course! To freeze, place the uniced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container, sealing tightly. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, then ice and sprinkle as you like!

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough is too sticky, it may be due to humidity or measurement differences. I recommend adding a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a more manageable consistency. Be careful not to overdo it, though; we still want those cookies fluffy!

Are Italian Easter Cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, absolutely! If anyone has nut allergies, simply use vanilla extract instead of almond extract. This way, you can still enjoy the delightful flavor of these festive cookies without compromising anyone’s safety. Always check labels to be on the safe side!

Can I use different colors for icing?
Certainly! You can use any gel food coloring you like to create your favorite shades for the icing. Mixing colors can lead to beautiful marbled effects or distinctive designs that will make your Italian Easter Cookies even more special and fun for your celebration. Enjoy crafting your colorful creations!