Italian Butter Cookies

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Crisp on the edges, buttery in the center, and delicately sweet, these Italian Butter Cookies are a nostalgic treat that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re baking them for the holidays or simply indulging in a weekday delight, their rich flavor and charming presentation make them an all-time favorite. Dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with festive nonpareils, they bring elegance and joy to any dessert platter.

What makes Italian Butter Cookies so special is their simplicity. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, they rely on high-quality butter for that unforgettable taste and tender crumb. The ridged shape adds a touch of vintage bakery charm, while the chocolate dip elevates the whole experience. They’re easy to make, store beautifully, and look absolutely stunning on cookie trays.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To achieve bakery-style Italian Butter Cookies at home, the right tools can make a big difference:

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Creaming butter and sugar to the perfect fluffy texture is key for a tender cookie. A mixer ensures consistency and ease.
• Piping Bag with Open Star Tip (like Wilton 6B): This gives the cookies their iconic ridged shape. It also helps portion the dough evenly.
• Baking Sheets and Parchment Paper: Keeps cookies from sticking and promotes even baking.
• Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool completely without becoming soggy underneath.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler: For melting chocolate smoothly and safely when dipping.

With these tools on hand, the process becomes smoother and the results more professional. A little preparation upfront makes the baking experience all the more enjoyable.

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Ingredients for the Italian Butter Cookies

Each ingredient in this cookie plays a vital role in texture and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:

• Unsalted Butter: The star of the show! Provides richness and that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Dissolves easily into the dough, giving the cookies a soft sweetness without graininess.
• Egg Yolks: Adds tenderness and structure while helping bind the dough.
• Vanilla Extract: Offers warm, aromatic flavor that balances the buttery base.
• All-Purpose Flour: Creates structure while keeping the cookie light and crisp.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Used for dipping; adds contrast with a smooth, rich coating.
• Sprinkles or Nonpareils: For decoration and a festive touch.

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How To Make the Italian Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy. This step creates a creamy base and helps develop the cookie’s soft texture.

Step 2: Add Yolks and Vanilla

Mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract. Beat just until combined. This step adds richness and brings the dough together.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture. Mix on low speed until a soft, thick dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 4: Pipe the Dough

Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large open star tip. Pipe 2-inch long strips onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Dip and Decorate

Once completely cooled, dip one end of each cookie into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper. Top with sprinkles and allow the chocolate to set.

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How to Serve and Store Italian Butter Cookies

Italian Butter Cookies are as versatile as they are beautiful. For serving, arrange them on a decorative platter or tiered stand, especially during the holidays. They’re ideal for tea parties, dessert tables, or as a classy gift when placed in a tin lined with parchment.

These cookies also pair well with coffee, espresso, or a tall glass of milk, making them a cozy choice for an afternoon treat.

To store them, place cooled cookies in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you’ve dipped them in chocolate, make sure the coating is fully set before stacking. For longer storage, freeze them (undecorated) for up to 2 months in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the flavor.

My dough is too stiff to pipe. What should I do?

If the dough is too firm, try letting it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. You can also mix in 1 tablespoon of milk to soften slightly.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze well. You can bake and freeze them undecorated, then dip and decorate after thawing.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling is necessary for this recipe. The dough should be piped right after mixing while it’s still pliable.

What piping tip gives the best shape?

A large open star tip, such as Wilton 6B, gives the traditional ridged look and is easy to use for clean, uniform lines.

Can I flavor the dough differently?

Yes! Try adding almond extract or citrus zest for a twist on the classic vanilla version.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Italian Butter Cookies, you’ll definitely want to try these other delicious creations from Life With Olivia:

• Whipped Shortbread Cookies — for a light, delicate texture that dissolves on the tongue.
• Chocolate Crinkle Sandwich Cookies — rich, chewy, and filled with chocolatey goodness.
• Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge — not a cookie, but the perfect quick treat to go with them.
• Coconut Snowballs — for coconut lovers and holiday cheer.
• Traditional German Lebkuchen — a spiced classic with deep roots and festive flair.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Follow me on Pinterest here.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you dip both ends or just one? Did you go with sprinkles or something a little fancier?

I love hearing how others bring their own twist to these recipes. Don’t hesitate to ask questions—we’re in this baking journey together!

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