Italian Rainbow Cookies

Italian Rainbow Cookies, also known as Tricolor Cookies or Venetian Cookies, are a beautiful and delicious almond-flavored treat. These iconic layered cookies feature soft, cake-like layers in vibrant red, white, and green, sandwiched with sweet jam and coated in rich chocolate. A staple in Italian bakeries, these cookies are perfect for holidays, celebrations, or as a special homemade dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Italian bakery favorite: A beloved treat for special occasions.
• Almond-flavored and delicious: Soft and flavorful with a hint of fruity jam.
• Visually stunning: The festive red, white, and green layers make them eye-catching.
• Rich chocolate topping: A perfect contrast to the delicate layers.
• Great for make-ahead: These cookies taste even better after chilling.

Ingredients

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

For the Cookie Layers:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• Red and green food coloring

For the Filling & Topping:

• ½ cup apricot jam (or raspberry jam)
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Directions

Prepare the Batter:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9×13-inch baking pans. Line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg yolks and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually mix in flour and salt until a smooth batter forms.

Whip Egg Whites & Fold In:

1. In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
2. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate it.

Color & Bake:

1. Divide the batter evenly into three bowls.
2. Tint one portion red and another green, leaving the third plain.
3. Spread each batter into its own prepared baking pan.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the layers are set and lightly golden.
5. Let the layers cool completely before assembling.

Assemble the Layers:

1. Place the green layer on a flat surface and spread half the jam over it.
2. Carefully place the white layer on top and spread the remaining jam over it.
3. Place the red layer on top, gently pressing down to ensure even layers.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours to set.

Add Chocolate Topping:

1. Spread melted semi-sweet chocolate evenly over the top layer.
2. Allow the chocolate to firm up, then carefully flip the cookie stack over and coat the other side with chocolate.
3. Once fully set, cut into 1-inch squares for serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 30 cookies
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 12 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: About 4 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Jam Options: Use seedless raspberry jam, strawberry jam, or even orange marmalade for different flavors.
• Darker Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer taste.
• Nutty Addition: Add a thin layer of almond paste between the layers for extra almond flavor.
• Extra Moisture: Lightly brush the cake layers with amaretto or simple syrup for added moisture.
• Holiday Themed: Adjust the colors to match different celebrations (e.g., pastels for Easter).

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers for up to 2 months.
• Room Temperature: Best served at room temperature for optimal texture.

FAQs

What are Italian Rainbow Cookies?

Italian Rainbow Cookies are almond-flavored sponge cake layers filled with jam and coated in chocolate, traditionally made in the colors of the Italian flag.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, they taste even better after chilling overnight, as the flavors meld together.

What’s the best jam to use?

Apricot and raspberry are the most traditional choices, but any fruit jam will work.

Do I need special pans for this recipe?

Three 9×13-inch baking pans work best, but you can bake the layers in batches if needed.

How do I keep the layers from sticking?

Line the baking pans with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

No, almond flour changes the texture, making the cookies too crumbly.

How do I get even layers?

Use an offset spatula to spread the batter evenly and weigh down the layers while chilling.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?

The chocolate balances the flavors, but you can skip it or use a light drizzle instead.

Why do these cookies need to chill?

Chilling helps set the layers and makes cutting easier.

Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, white chocolate can be used, but it will create a sweeter result.

Conclusion

Italian Rainbow Cookies are a timeless classic, perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply as a delicious treat. With their vibrant colors, rich almond flavor, and decadent chocolate coating, these cookies are a must-try for any dessert lover. Whether you’re baking them for a celebration or to enjoy with coffee, they are sure to impress. Try this authentic recipe today and bring a touch of Italian bakery magic to your home!