Description
Delightful Nonna’s Easter Cookies blend tradition with sweet memories from Italy’s festive kitchens. Buttery, delicate cookies offer a perfect balance of almond and citrus flavors that connect generations through cherished family recipes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (57 grams) butter, melted and cooled
- 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) milk (2%)
- 1 1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons (200 grams) all-purpose flour
Flavor and Binding Ingredients:
- 3 1/4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch salt (1/4 teaspoon if using unsalted butter)
- Zest of 1 lemon
Glaze Ingredients:
- 1 1/2–2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300F (150C) and line a spacious baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal cookie preparation.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients including flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and fragrant lemon zest. Create a central well and introduce eggs, softened butter, and milk. Gently blend with a fork until ingredients are almost incorporated, then transfer to a flat surface and knead delicately until the dough achieves a smooth, uniform texture.
- Carefully roll the dough into slender 5-6 inch ropes, elegantly forming them into traditional knots or circular shapes. Arrange the shaped cookies with precision on the prepared baking sheet.
- Slide the cookie sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, watching for a subtle golden hue that indicates perfect doneness. Remove and allow cookies to cool completely before embellishing.
- Craft a luxurious glaze by whisking sifted powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice and milk, adjusting the consistency to your preference. Generously drape the cooled cookies with the glossy glaze or dust them with a delicate veil of powdered sugar for a classic finish.
Notes
- Customize the cookie shape by braiding ropes or creating traditional S-curves for an authentic Italian presentation.
- Ensure dough is not overworked to maintain a tender, delicate texture that melts in your mouth.
- Add orange zest or almond extract for a flavor variation that complements the classic lemon profile.
- Use room temperature ingredients to help the dough blend smoothly and prevent potential lumpy texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg