17 Italian Shortbread Cookies Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 14, 2024
When it comes to traditional Italian desserts, Italian shortbread cookies are a must-try. These crispy and buttery treats are a staple in Italian households and are enjoyed all year round. While there are many variations of this recipe, the classic version remains a favorite among many. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the ingredients and steps needed to make authentic Italian shortbread cookies, so you can bring a taste of Italy into your own home.
Main Ingredients: Flour, Potato Starch, Icing, Salt, Vanilla Powder
Canestrelli are delicate, buttery shortbread cookies that originated in Italy. These cookies are typically shaped like flowers or stars and have a crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. They are often served during special occasions or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
If you want to try making your own Canestrelli at home, you can follow this simple recipe. Start by combining 1 cup of softened butter, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl. Then, gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and mix until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and cut out your desired shapes, then bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for gifting or enjoying with family and friends.
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Baci di Dama (Italian Almond Shortbread Cookies)
Main Ingredients: Caster, Unsalted Butter, Almond Meal, Flour, Chocolate
Baci di Dama, also known as “lady’s kisses,” are another delicious Italian shortbread cookie. These cookies are made with almond flour, giving them a delicate nutty flavor. They are usually sandwiched together with a layer of chocolate ganache, making them irresistible to anyone with a sweet tooth.
To make these cookies, start by mixing 1 cup of almond flour, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and ½ cup of powdered sugar in a bowl. Then, add 1 stick of softened butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until a dough forms. Roll the dough into small balls and bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. Once cooled, sandwich two cookies together with melted chocolate for the perfect bite-sized treat.
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Easy Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Powdered Sugar, Vanilla, All Purpose
If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy some delicious shortbread cookies, this easy recipe is for you. All you need is 1 cup of softened butter, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Mix the butter and sugar together until creamy, then gradually add in the flour until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough, cut into your desired shapes, and bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
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Whipped Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Powdered Sugar, All Purpose Flour
Whipped shortbread cookies have a lighter and fluffier texture compared to traditional shortbread cookies. These cookies are made with a combination of butter, powdered sugar, and cornstarch, giving them a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
To make these cookies, start by creaming 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ¼ cup of cornstarch to the mixture and continue to beat until well combined. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for holiday baking and can be topped with chopped nuts or drizzled with chocolate for an extra indulgence.
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Classic Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Butter, Icing Sugar, All Purpose Flour
Sometimes, you just can’t beat a classic. Classic shortbread cookies are simple yet delicious, with a buttery and crumbly texture that is hard to resist. These cookies are made with just a few basic ingredients and are perfect for any occasion.
To make classic shortbread cookies, start by creaming 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and mix until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and cut into your desired shapes, then bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for decorating and can be customized with different toppings or glazes.
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Italian Almond Paste Cookies
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Almond Paste, Granulated Sugar, Salt
These Italian almond paste cookies are a unique twist on traditional shortbread cookies. They are made with almond paste, giving them a rich and nutty flavor, and are often enjoyed during the holiday season.
To make these cookies, start by mixing 8 ounces of almond paste, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 stick of softened butter in a bowl until well combined. Then, add in 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of almond extract and mix until a dough forms. Roll the dough into small balls and bake for about 12-15 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.
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3-Ingredient Buttery Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Light Brown Sugar, All Purpose Flour
If you’re looking for a quick and easy shortbread cookie recipe, this 3-ingredient version is perfect. All you need is 1 cup of softened butter, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour. These cookies have a rich and buttery flavor and are perfect for any occasion.
To make these cookies, cream the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, then gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and cut into your desired shapes, then bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for decorating and can be customized with different flavors or toppings.
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Keto Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Almond Flour, Butter, Sweetener, Pure Vanilla Extract
If you’re following a keto diet but still want to indulge in some delicious shortbread cookies, this recipe is for you. These keto shortbread cookies are made with almond flour and are low in carbs and sugar, making them a guilt-free treat.
To make these cookies, start by mixing 1 ½ cups of almond flour, ½ cup of powdered erythritol (a keto-friendly sweetener), and ½ cup of softened butter in a bowl until well combined. Then, roll out the dough and cut into your desired shapes, and bake for about 12-15 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while sticking to your keto lifestyle.
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Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Butter, White Sugar, Vanilla Extract, All Purpose
This classic shortbread cookie recipe is a staple in many households. These cookies have a buttery flavor and a crumbly texture that is hard to resist. They are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of milk.
To make these cookies, start by mixing 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and mix until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and cut into your desired shapes, then bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are simple yet delicious and can be customized with different flavors or toppings.
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Pecan Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Finely Chopped Pecans, Unsalted Butter, Granulated
If you love pecans, you have to try these pecan shortbread cookies. These cookies have a rich and buttery flavor and are loaded with chopped pecans for a delicious crunch. They are perfect for holiday baking or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
To make these cookies, start by creaming 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and mix until a dough forms. Finally, stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans and roll out the dough. Cut into your desired shapes and bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
No list of Italian recipes would be complete without mentioning meatballs. These classic Italian meatballs are tender, flavorful, and perfect for any pasta dish. They are made with a combination of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices.
To make these meatballs, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1 pound of ground pork, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese, 1 egg, ¼ cup of chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil in a bowl. Mix until well combined, then form into meatballs and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes. Serve with your favorite pasta and marinara sauce for a classic Italian dish.
These Italian almond cookies are easy to make and have a delicious almond flavor. They are made with almond flour and almond extract, giving them a rich and nutty taste that is hard to resist.
To make these cookies, start by creaming ½ cup of softened butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, add in 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of almond extract, and 1 cup of almond flour and mix until a dough forms. Roll the dough into small balls and bake for about 12-15 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet treat with your coffee or tea.
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Italian Meatballs {Great Big Italian Meatballs}
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Egg, Fresh Bread Crumbs
If you prefer your meatballs on the larger side, these great big Italian meatballs are for you. They are made with a combination of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, and herbs and spices, and are perfect for serving with your favorite pasta dish.
To make these meatballs, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1 pound of ground pork, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese, 1 egg, ¼ cup of chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil in a bowl. Mix until well combined, then form into large meatballs and bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes. Serve with your favorite pasta and marinara sauce for a hearty and delicious meal.
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3-Ingredient Scottish Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Butter, Confectioners Sugar, All Purpose Flour
If you’re a fan of simple and delicious recipes, these 3-ingredient Scottish shortbread cookies are a must-try. All you need is 1 cup of softened butter, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour to make these buttery and crumbly cookies.
To make these cookies, cream the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, then gradually add in the flour until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and cut into your desired shapes, then bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
These Italian ricotta cookies are soft, pillowy, and full of flavor. They are made with ricotta cheese, giving them a tender and moist texture, and are often enjoyed during the holiday season.
To make these cookies, mix 1 cup of ricotta cheese, ½ cup of softened butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl until well combined. Then, gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder until a dough forms. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for gifting or enjoying with family and friends.
This classic Italian wedding soup is comfort food at its finest. It is made with a flavorful broth, tender meatballs, veggies, and pasta, making it a hearty and satisfying dish.
To make this soup, start by making the meatballs using a combination of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, and herbs and spices. Then, make the broth by simmering chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion. Add the meatballs and some cooked pasta to the broth and simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through. Serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a delicious and comforting meal.
These Christmas shortbread cookies are perfect for the holiday season. They are made with a classic shortbread dough and decorated with festive sprinkles and icing.
To make these cookies, start by making a batch of classic shortbread dough. Roll out the dough and cut into your desired shapes, then bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. Once cooled, decorate with festive sprinkles and icing in any design you like. These cookies are perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace.
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Keto Stuffed Peppers – Italian Style
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Olive Oil, Bell Peppers, Onion
If you’re following a keto diet, you may think that Italian food is off the menu. However, these keto stuffed peppers are a delicious and low-carb option for satisfying your Italian food cravings.
To make these stuffed peppers, start by browning ground beef with onions and garlic in a skillet. Then, mix in some tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes. These stuffed peppers are a complete meal in one and are perfect for anyone following a keto lifestyle.
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Cucidati Italian Christmas Fig Cookies
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Vanilla Extract
Cucidati, also known as Italian fig cookies, are a traditional Italian Christmas treat. These cookies are made with a fig filling and a buttery dough, and are often shaped into crescents or logs.
To make the fig filling, combine 1 cup of dried figs, 1 cup of raisins, ½ cup of chopped almonds, ½ cup of honey, and ½ cup of orange juice in a food processor and pulse until well combined. For the dough, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of softened butter, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and cut into rectangles, then spread the fig filling on one half and fold the other half over, pressing the edges together. Bake for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are a delicious addition to any Christmas cookie platter.
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Genuine Shortbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Butter, Flour
These genuine shortbread cookies are a classic and simple version of shortbread cookies. They are made with just 3 ingredients and have a rich and buttery flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
To make these cookies, cream 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and cut into your desired shapes, then bake for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients You'll Need:
1. Butter
The key ingredient in Italian shortbread cookies is, of course, butter. It's important to use high-quality unsalted butter, as this will give your cookies a rich and creamy flavor. Make sure to let the butter come to room temperature before using it in the recipe.
2. Sugar
To add sweetness to the cookies, you'll need to use sugar. Granulated white sugar works best for this recipe, but you can also use a combination of white and brown sugar for a slightly deeper flavor.
3. Flour
All-purpose flour is typically used in Italian shortbread cookies, but you can also use a combination of all-purpose and cake flour for a lighter texture. Be sure to measure the flour accurately for the best results.
4. Vanilla Extract
A splash of vanilla extract gives these cookies a delightful aroma and flavor. You can also use almond extract for a different twist.
5. Salt
A pinch of salt helps balance out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
Steps to Make Italian Shortbread Cookies:
1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done by hand or with a mixer.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the flour, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll and Cut the Dough
Roll the dough into a log shape and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, slice the log into 1/4 inch thick rounds.
4. Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
5. Let Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on a wire rack before enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. These cookies also make a great gift when packaged in a decorative tin.
In conclusion, Italian shortbread cookies are a delicious and simple treat that can be made with just a few basic ingredients. Whether you're looking for a new cookie recipe to try or want to impress your friends and family with a taste of Italy, these cookies are sure to be a hit. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and savor the rich and buttery flavors of authentic Italian shortbread cookies.
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