Transport yourself to an authentic Italian pasticceria with these melt-in-your-mouth Italian butter cookies. These classic cookies, known as “Biscotti al Burro,” are a beloved staple in Italian households, particularly during holidays and special occasions. Their delicate texture, rich buttery flavor, and versatile decorating options make them perfect for any celebration or simply alongside your afternoon espresso.
The Perfect Italian Butter Cookie Recipe
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 24-30 cookies
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
- 220g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 130g granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks, room temperature
- 10ml vanilla extract
- 2ml almond extract (optional)
- 280g all-purpose flour
- 2g baking powder
- Pinch of fine salt
- Gel food coloring (optional)
For Decorating (Optional):
- Candied cherries
- Powdered sugar
- Dark or milk chocolate
- Chocolate chips
- Colored sprinkles
- Chopped nuts
- Desiccated coconut
- Nutella or raspberry jam (for sandwich cookies)
Instructions
- Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 160°C
- Line 2-3 baking sheets with parchment paper
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature
- Make the Dough:
- Beat butter and sugar until just combined
- Add egg yolks, vanilla, and almond extract
- Gradually incorporate sifted flour, baking powder, and salt
- Mix until smooth but don’t overmix
- Shaping:
- Transfer dough to a piping bag with a large star tip
- Pipe cookies onto prepared baking sheets
- Optional: Add decorations before baking
- Baking:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until light golden
- Cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes
- Transfer to cooling rack
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
- Use room temperature ingredients for optimal dough consistency
- Don’t overbeat the butter and sugar to prevent flat cookies
- Keep the piping tip close to the baking sheet while forming cookies
- If dough is too stiff, add milk one teaspoon at a time
- For colored cookies, use gel food coloring to maintain dough consistency
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace vanilla extract with lemon or orange zest
- Use gluten-free flour blend (add 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum)
- Experiment with different piping tips for varied designs
- Create sandwich cookies with various fillings
- Dip in white chocolate instead of dark chocolate
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks
- Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months
- Dough can be refrigerated for 24 hours before piping
- Keep away from humidity to maintain crispness
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 6g
Common FAQs
Q: Why did my cookies spread too much?
A: This typically happens when the butter is too soft or the dough is overbeaten. Ensure room temperature butter and minimal mixing.
Q: Can I make these without a piping bag?
A: Yes, you can use a cookie press or roll the dough and cut shapes with cookie cutters.
Q: Why are my cookies too dry?
A: Over-measuring flour is usually the culprit. Use the spoon-and-level method or weigh ingredients for accuracy.
Q: How do I know when they’re done baking?
A: Cookies should be light golden around the edges but remain pale on top. They will firm up as they cool.
The beauty of these Italian butter cookies lies in their simplicity and elegance. Whether served plain or elaborately decorated, they’re sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. Perfect for gifting, special occasions, or simply enjoying with your daily coffee, these cookies bring a touch of Italian pasticceria charm to your home.