33+ Irresistible Italian-American Cookie Recipes You Need to Try

Italian-American cookies are a delightful fusion of Italian baking traditions and American creativity.

These cookies often feature rich flavors, delicate textures, and timeless ingredients like almonds, anise, and citrus.

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, preparing a family gathering, or simply craving something sweet, Italian-American cookies are the perfect treat.

From the crispy, almond-scented Pignoli cookies to the colorful layers of Italian rainbow cookies, each recipe is a reflection of the diverse and rich Italian-American culture.

This blog post explores over 33 classic Italian-American cookie recipes that will transport you straight to a cozy kitchen in Little Italy.

Whether you prefer buttery shortbreads, chewy biscotti, or gooey, chocolate-filled delights, there’s something for everyone in this collection.

33+ Irresistible Italian-American Cookie Recipes You Need to Try

Italian-American cookies are more than just desserts; they’re a celebration of heritage, tradition, and love.

These cookies bring warmth, flavor, and a bit of nostalgia with every bite, making them perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Italian-American baking or just starting to explore these wonderful treats, the 33+ recipes featured in this blog will inspire you to get baking and share the joy of Italian-American sweets with friends and family.

From classic holiday treats to everyday indulgences, these cookies are sure to leave you craving more.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start creating these mouthwatering cookies that will become a beloved part of your baking repertoire.

Italian American Biscotti

Biscotti, a beloved Italian-American cookie, is perfect for dipping in a hot beverage like coffee or tea. These twice-baked cookies are crisp and crunchy, flavored with almonds, and often enhanced with chocolate chips or dried fruits. This recipe provides a delicious balance of sweetness and texture, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. You can customize the nuts or fruits based on your preference, adding a personal touch to these traditional cookies.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sliced almonds (or any nut of your choice)
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Stir in the almonds and chocolate chips, if using.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it in half. Shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are golden and firm.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes. Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
8. Slice the logs diagonally into 1-inch pieces and return them to the baking sheet. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until they are crisp and golden.
9. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Biscotti offers a satisfying crunch and the perfect amount of sweetness, making it a classic Italian-American cookie that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to incorporate different nuts, fruits, or even a drizzle of chocolate for a more indulgent version. Biscotti is a great cookie to share during the holiday season or to enjoy with friends and family throughout the year. Once you try this recipe, you’ll have a new go-to for any occasion!

Italian American Rainbow Cookies

Rainbow Cookies are a vibrant and festive Italian-American treat, often enjoyed during holidays and special celebrations. This layered cookie is made with almond-flavored cake, colorful layers of red, yellow, and green, and finished with a chocolate coating. Though they may look intricate, the result is a visually stunning and delightful cookie that balances sweetness and texture in every bite. These cookies bring a splash of color to any dessert table and are perfect for festive occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• Red, yellow, and green food coloring
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some paper hangs over the sides for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, sugar, butter, almond extract, and eggs. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the flour and baking powder to the mixture, then stir until combined.
4. Divide the dough evenly into three bowls. Color each portion with a few drops of food coloring: red, yellow, and green.
5. Layer the dough in the pan, starting with the red dough on the bottom, followed by the yellow, and then the green. Spread each layer evenly before adding the next.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
7. Let the cookie layers cool completely in the pan, then remove from the pan and place on a cutting board.
8. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
9. Pour the melted chocolate over the top of the layered cookie and spread evenly.
10. Allow the chocolate to set before cutting the cookies into small rectangles or squares.

Rainbow Cookies are a true Italian-American classic that not only impresses with their beautiful layers but also with their almond flavor and chocolatey finish. They’re perfect for holiday celebrations, special occasions, or when you want to brighten up a dessert table. While the preparation may take some time, the end result is well worth it. These colorful treats are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a sweet, flavorful cookie!

Italian American Pignoli Cookies

Pignoli Cookies are a simple yet elegant Italian-American treat made with almond paste and pine nuts. These chewy, slightly crunchy cookies are rich in flavor, with a distinct almond taste and a delightful pine nut crunch. Traditionally enjoyed during the holidays, pignoli cookies are perfect for those who enjoy nut-based desserts. The combination of almond paste and pine nuts creates a unique and addictive cookie that’s both flavorful and sophisticated.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz almond paste
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large egg whites
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, pulse the almond paste with powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Add the egg whites, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt to the mixture, blending until it becomes a thick dough.
4. Using your hands or a spoon, form the dough into small 1-inch balls.
5. Roll each dough ball in the pine nuts, pressing gently to adhere the nuts to the dough.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, and the cookies have a slightly crisp texture.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pignoli Cookies are an irresistible treat that brings together the earthy taste of almonds and the unique crunch of pine nuts. With their rich texture and beautiful appearance, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or as a gift to someone who loves nut-based treats. These cookies are a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Once you’ve tried making them, you’ll be sure to return to this Italian-American classic time and time again!

Italian American Cucidati (Fig Cookies)

Cucidati, also known as Sicilian fig cookies, are a delightful Italian-American treat filled with a rich fig mixture, spices, and often accented with citrus zest. These cookies are made with a soft, buttery dough that perfectly complements the sweet and tangy filling. The addition of colorful sprinkles or icing on top adds a festive touch, making them ideal for special occasions like holidays or family gatherings. These fig-filled treats are as beautiful as they are delicious, with their unique filling creating a flavor-packed bite in every cookie.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 1/2 cups dried figs, chopped
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar (for icing, optional)
• Rainbow nonpareils or colored sugar (for decorating, optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the dough is smooth, then add the orange juice and mix again. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the figs, raisins, walnuts, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and honey. Cook over low heat until the figs and raisins soften and the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Allow it to cool.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch wide strips.
5. Place a small spoonful of the fig mixture in the center of each dough strip. Fold the edges over to form a log shape, pressing the seams to seal.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. If desired, drizzle the cookies with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and a little orange juice. Decorate with rainbow nonpareils or colored sugar for a festive touch.

Cucidati cookies are a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with a soft dough that contrasts beautifully with the fig and nut filling. Whether you choose to decorate them with icing and sprinkles or keep them simple, these cookies add a touch of Italian-American tradition to any occasion. They are especially popular during the holiday season, but their rich flavors make them a treat worth enjoying year-round. Once you make them, you’ll want to share these fig-filled delights with everyone you know!

Italian American Amaretti Cookies

Amaretti cookies are a light, almond-flavored treat that has become an Italian-American favorite. Known for their crisp exterior and chewy center, these cookies are made from almond paste and egg whites, resulting in a delicate texture and intense almond flavor. They are often enjoyed with coffee or tea, or served as a delicate dessert for special occasions. Their simplicity and elegance make them a timeless addition to any dessert tray.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups almond paste
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 large egg whites
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond paste and sugar, breaking up any clumps of almond paste.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks, then gently fold them into the almond paste mixture.
4. Add the almond extract, vanilla extract, and salt to the dough, mixing until smooth.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
6. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies have a slightly cracked surface and are golden brown on the bottom.
8. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

Amaretti cookies are a quintessential Italian-American dessert, beloved for their chewy center and crisp outer layer. The almond flavor shines through in every bite, creating a sophisticated treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with friends and family, amaretti cookies add a refined touch to any occasion. Simple yet elegant, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

Italian American Ricotta Cookies

Ricotta cookies are soft, cake-like Italian-American cookies made with ricotta cheese. The ricotta adds moisture and richness to the dough, resulting in a light and fluffy cookie that is both tender and flavorful. These cookies are often glazed with a lemony icing and decorated with colorful sprinkles, making them a perfect treat for celebrations and holidays. Their delicate sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a beloved classic in many Italian-American households.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (for glaze)
• Rainbow sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until incorporated.
4. Stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice, blending until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges.
8. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
9. In a small bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar with a few teaspoons of lemon juice to make a glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles, if desired.

Ricotta cookies are a soft, flavorful treat that brings a touch of Italy to any dessert table. The combination of ricotta cheese and lemon gives them a fresh, light taste that makes them perfect for any occasion. With their bright, colorful appearance and delicate flavor, these cookies are especially popular during the holiday season, but they are delicious enough to enjoy year-round. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them with a cup of coffee, ricotta cookies are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Italian American Pignoli Cookies

Pignoli cookies are a beloved Italian-American dessert known for their simple ingredients but unforgettable flavor. These almond-based cookies are topped with pine nuts (pignoli in Italian) that give them their signature texture and nutty richness. With a chewy interior and crisp exterior, pignoli cookies are sweet but not overly sugary, letting the flavor of the almonds shine through. They are perfect for special occasions, like holidays, and are often enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or espresso.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond paste
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg white
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (pignoli)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, break up the almond paste and combine it with the powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the egg white, vanilla extract, and salt, stirring until the dough comes together.
4. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in the pine nuts, pressing gently so they stick to the surface.
5. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
7. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Pignoli cookies are a delicate treat that offer a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavor. The chewy texture and the distinctive crunch of the pine nuts make each bite a delightful experience. These cookies are a perfect addition to any holiday dessert table or as a sweet gift for loved ones. Their simplicity and elegance make them an Italian-American favorite that never goes out of style.

Italian American Sesame Cookies (Biscotti di Sesamo)

Sesame cookies, or Biscotti di Sesamo, are a crunchy and satisfying Italian-American treat. Made with a combination of sesame seeds and honey, these cookies have a slightly sweet flavor with a nutty undertone. They are easy to make and ideal for dunking in coffee or tea. The sesame seeds add a delightful crunch, while the honey gives them a subtle sweetness. These cookies are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert and are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, whisk the egg, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together.
5. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and roll each one in sesame seeds to coat.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, flattening them slightly with your fingers.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden and crisp on the edges.
8. If desired, brush the tops of the cookies with a little olive oil for a glossy finish.
9. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

These sesame cookies offer a delightful crunch with the perfect amount of sweetness, making them an ideal treat for any time of day. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply as a snack, Biscotti di Sesamo is a timeless Italian-American classic. The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of sesame pairs wonderfully with the honey, creating a satisfying treat that everyone will enjoy. They are easy to make, and their crispy texture ensures they are a favorite among those who love simple, wholesome cookies.

Italian American Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Lemon ricotta cookies are a light and refreshing dessert that combines the tartness of lemons with the creamy, delicate texture of ricotta cheese. These cookies are soft and cake-like with a hint of citrusy brightness, making them a perfect choice for spring and summer gatherings. Topped with a sweet lemon glaze, they are both visually appealing and full of flavor. Easy to make and utterly delicious, lemon ricotta cookies offer a balance of sweetness and tang that is sure to please everyone.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (for glaze)
• 2-3 tbsp lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are golden around the edges.
8. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the confectioners’ sugar and lemon juice to create a glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.

Lemon ricotta cookies are a bright and cheerful addition to any dessert table. Their soft texture and lemony glaze make them a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. These cookies are especially popular for celebrations and gatherings, but their refreshing flavor makes them suitable for any occasion. Whether served as a light dessert or enjoyed as a snack, these lemon ricotta cookies will leave a lasting impression with their irresistible flavor and delicate texture.

Italian American Anise Cookies (Biscotti all’Anice)

Anise cookies, or Biscotti all’Anice, are a classic Italian-American treat known for their distinctive licorice-like flavor. These cookies are slightly crunchy on the outside with a soft, cake-like interior. The anise seeds give them a unique, aromatic flavor that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or espresso. These cookies are often made for special occasions and holidays, and their simple yet flavorful taste has made them a favorite among many. With just a few ingredients, they come together quickly, making them an easy yet delicious treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp anise extract
• 1 tbsp anise seeds (optional)
• 1 tbsp milk (or as needed)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the anise extract and anise seeds (if using).
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring to combine. If the dough seems too dry, add a bit of milk until it comes together.
6. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
8. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Anise cookies are a timeless Italian-American classic with a distinctive flavor that stands out among traditional cookies. Their slightly sweet, aromatic taste and tender texture make them perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. The subtle crunch from the anise seeds adds an extra layer of texture, while the soft center makes each bite a treat to savor. These cookies offer a flavorful departure from the usual cookie options and are a delightful addition to any dessert table.

Italian American Cucidati (Italian Fig Cookies)

Cucidati, also known as Italian fig cookies, are a delicious and rustic Italian-American treat that features a rich, spiced fig filling wrapped in a buttery dough. These cookies are a holiday favorite, often seen at Christmas time, but their sweet and aromatic flavor can be enjoyed year-round. The combination of dried figs, honey, cinnamon, and citrus zest gives the filling a unique, warm flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft and slightly sweet cookie dough. These cookies are visually appealing, with their bright, sugary glaze, making them as beautiful as they are tasty.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Fig Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups dried figs, chopped
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until the dough is smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
5. While the dough chills, prepare the fig filling. In a saucepan, combine the figs, honey, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the figs are soft and the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Let the mixture cool, then stir in the chopped walnuts if using.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut the dough into rectangles, about 3 inches wide.
7. Place a spoonful of fig filling on the center of each rectangle, then fold the dough over the filling to form a pocket. Pinch the edges to seal.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cookies.

Cucidati cookies are a wonderful Italian-American tradition, full of rich flavor and warmth. The combination of spiced fig filling and buttery dough creates a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. With their decorative glaze, they not only taste great but also make a beautiful addition to any dessert platter. These fig cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a unique, homemade treat. The flavors are comforting, and the cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

Italian American Ricotta Cheesecake Cookies

Ricotta cheesecake cookies combine two Italian-American favorites: ricotta cheese and cheesecake! These soft, cake-like cookies are filled with the smooth richness of ricotta cheese, creating a flavor similar to that of a traditional cheesecake. With a light lemon zest and vanilla extract, these cookies have a hint of freshness and sweetness. The addition of a simple glaze and colorful sprinkles makes them a fun and festive treat. Perfect for gatherings or dessert tables, these ricotta cheesecake cookies will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon zest

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Sprinkles for decoration (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges.
7. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cookies and top with sprinkles if desired.

Ricotta cheesecake cookies offer a delightful fusion of creamy ricotta cheese and the light, fresh flavors of lemon and vanilla. Their soft texture makes them a melt-in-your-mouth treat, while the simple glaze and colorful sprinkles add a fun touch. These cookies are ideal for anyone who loves cheesecake but wants a more portable version. Perfect for parties, holidays, or as a treat to share with friends and family, these ricotta cheesecake cookies will become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Italian American Italian Rainbow Cookies (Tricolore Cookies)

Italian Rainbow Cookies, or Tricolore Cookies, are a vibrant, three-layered Italian-American treat that captures the colors of the Italian flag. These cookies are moist, almond-flavored, and filled with a rich layer of apricot jam between the colorful layers. The recipe involves baking three separate layers, one for each color, then stacking them together with a layer of jam in between. The cookies are often topped with a glossy chocolate glaze, making them as visually stunning as they are delicious. These cookies are typically served during the holidays or at special occasions and have a nostalgic charm for many.

Ingredients:

For the Cookie:

• 2 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Red and green food coloring
• 1/2 cup apricot jam (or raspberry jam)

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• 6 oz semisweet chocolate
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until creamy. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the almond extract.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the almond mixture.
6. Divide the batter evenly into three bowls. Leave one bowl plain, add red food coloring to the second bowl, and green food coloring to the third.
7. Spread the red batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Repeat for the green and plain layers, baking each separately.
8. Once the layers have cooled, spread apricot jam over the plain layer. Place the red layer on top, followed by the green layer.
9. For the glaze, melt the chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Once smooth, pour the glaze over the stacked layers and spread evenly.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the glaze to set. Once chilled, cut into small squares.

Italian Rainbow Cookies are a show-stopping treat with layers of flavor and color that are as delightful to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. The almond cake layers are wonderfully soft, while the apricot jam provides a sweet and tangy contrast. The rich chocolate glaze on top ties everything together beautifully. These cookies are perfect for celebrations, especially around the holidays, where their vibrant colors and elegant appearance will be the star of the dessert table. With their nostalgic flavors and striking look, they make for a memorable homemade gift or festive treat.

Italian American Pignoli Cookies

Pignoli Cookies are a traditional Italian-American cookie made with pine nuts (pignoli) and almond paste. These cookies are chewy, sweet, and nutty with a delicate almond flavor that is complemented by the earthy crunch of pine nuts. The dough is made from almond paste, sugar, and egg whites, giving them a light yet chewy texture that melts in your mouth. They’re a beloved treat, often enjoyed around the holidays or for special occasions, thanks to their elegant look and irresistible taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups almond paste
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large egg whites
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (pignoli)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, pulse the almond paste and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Add the egg whites and vanilla extract, and process until the mixture is well combined and slightly sticky.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The dough will be sticky, so you may want to use dampened hands to form them into small balls.
5. Press pine nuts into the top of each cookie, ensuring they are well distributed across the surface.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the tops are set.
7. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Pignoli cookies are a simple yet exquisite treat that showcases the natural flavors of almonds and pine nuts. The chewy texture of the cookie combined with the crunch of pine nuts creates a satisfying experience with each bite. Their light sweetness and delicate flavor make them perfect for pairing with a cup of coffee or tea, and their elegant appearance makes them an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or gifting. These cookies are a wonderful reminder of the rich Italian-American baking traditions and will become a favorite in your dessert collection.

Italian American Zeppole (Italian Fried Donuts)

Zeppole are delicious Italian-American fried donuts often served during holidays and special occasions like St. Joseph’s Day. These little deep-fried doughnuts are golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. Traditionally, they are dusted with powdered sugar, but they can also be filled with pastry cream or chocolate. Whether served plain or filled, zeppole are a crowd-pleasing treat, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth and bringing a taste of Italian tradition into your home.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the saucepan and stir vigorously until the dough comes together and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time until the dough is smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
6. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the zeppole to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, or fill with pastry cream or chocolate if desired.

Zeppole are the epitome of indulgent Italian-American dessert. The crispy exterior and soft, airy interior make these fried donuts irresistible, and the dusting of powdered sugar adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether served plain or filled with creamy pastry cream or chocolate, they’re always a favorite at family gatherings and holidays. Zeppole bring a piece of Italian tradition into every bite, and their light, fluffy texture will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect for any occasion, these delightful treats are sure to become a cherished part of your dessert rotation.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!