Italian Easter Cookies

Italian Easter Cookies, also known as Taralli Dolci, are a beloved springtime tradition—soft, lightly sweet, and delicately flavored with lemon and vanilla. These cookies are joyfully decorated with pastel icing and festive rainbow sprinkles, making them as cheerful in appearance as they are comforting in flavor. Perfect for Easter celebrations, brunch tables, or gift tins, they bring a nostalgic, homemade charm to any holiday occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are incredibly soft and pillowy, thanks to a simple, egg-rich dough. Their mild sweetness and bright citrus note make them ideal for pairing with coffee or tea. They’re easy to decorate, fun to make with kids, and offer a vibrant pop of color to your spring baking. Plus, they store beautifully and are great for sharing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookies:

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

For the icing:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3–4 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp almond or vanilla extract
• Food coloring (pink, yellow, blue – or your choice)
• Rainbow sprinkles

Directions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Make the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. Shape and Bake:
   • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into smooth balls.
   • Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced slightly apart.
   • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are just lightly golden. Do not overbake.
   • Transfer cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Icing:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond or vanilla extract until smooth.
   • Divide the icing into separate bowls and tint each with your desired food coloring.
5. Decorate the Cookies:
   • Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the icing.
   • Place them back on a wire rack and immediately top with rainbow sprinkles before the icing sets.
   • Let the icing dry completely before storing.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 36 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per cookie

Variations

• Anise Flavor: Replace the vanilla with anise extract for a more traditional Italian flavor.
• Twisted Shapes: Roll dough into ropes and shape into rings or twists before baking.
• Lemon Glaze: Add lemon juice and zest to the icing for extra citrus brightness.
• Almond Topping: Sprinkle finely chopped almonds over the icing instead of rainbow sprinkles.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a celiac-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies for up to 2 months, then thaw and ice as needed. Avoid storing in the fridge, as this can cause the icing to become sticky.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Yes, the cookies can be baked a day or two ahead and decorated the day of serving for best appearance and texture.

Do I have to use food coloring?

No, the icing can be left white for a more traditional or elegant look.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, freeze un-iced cookies for best results. Thaw and decorate just before serving.

What texture should the dough have?

The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too wet, add a little more flour a tablespoon at a time.

Can I shape these cookies differently?

Yes, they can be made into balls, rings, twists, or even mini braids.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Ensure the butter is just softened, not melted. Also, avoid overmixing the dough.

Are these cookies very sweet?

They’re mildly sweet on their own, with most of the sweetness coming from the glaze.

Can I use lemon juice instead of zest?

Yes, but zest offers a more concentrated citrus flavor. You may use both for extra brightness.

What’s the best way to apply the icing?

Dip the tops of the cookies straight into the bowl, then let the excess drip off before placing on the rack.

Do these cookies harden?

The icing sets, but the cookies themselves remain soft and tender.

Conclusion

Italian Easter Cookies (Taralli Dolci) are a delightful and colorful addition to any spring celebration. With their soft, cake-like texture, light lemon and vanilla flavor, and cheerful icing, they’re the perfect way to bring tradition and sweetness to your Easter table. Easy to bake, fun to decorate, and beautiful to serve, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite for years to come.

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