18 Traditional Italian Rainbow Cookie Recipe Try These Culinary Delights!
Published on: Mar 18, 2024
The traditional Italian rainbow cookie, also known as Neapolitan or tricolore cookies, is a beloved dessert that originated in Italy. These colorful and delicious cookies have become a staple in Italian-American cuisine and are often served during special occasions and holidays. The recipe for these cookies has been passed down from generation to generation, making it a cherished tradition in many Italian families. In this article, we will explore the history of this beloved dessert and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make them at home.
What's more Italian than a classic plate of rainbow cookies? These sweet and colorful treats are a staple in any Italian household and are loved by adults and children alike. Made with layers of almond cake and raspberry jam, these cookies are both delicious and beautiful to look at. So why not try out this traditional recipe and bring a little taste of Italy into your home?
2of 20
Italian Rainbow Cookies (Seven-Layer Cookies)
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Sugar, Almond Paste, Unsalted Butter
If you thought traditional rainbow cookies were impressive, just wait until you try the seven-layer version! These cookies have an extra layer of chocolate and a layer of apricot jam, making them even more indulgent and flavorful. They may take a bit more time to make, but the end result is well worth the effort. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
3of 20
Flourless Italian Rainbow Cookies
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Granulated Sugar, Almond Paste, Unsalted
For those who are gluten-free, don't worry, we've got you covered. These flourless Italian rainbow cookies are just as delicious as the traditional version, but made with almond flour instead of regular flour. The result is a nuttier and slightly denser cookie that is perfect for those who have dietary restrictions or just want to try something new.
4of 20
Gluten-Free Italian Rainbow Cookies
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Sugar, Salted Butter, Almond Paste, Almond
Another option for those who are gluten-free are these gluten-free Italian rainbow cookies. Made with a combination of gluten-free flour and almond flour, these cookies have a light and delicate texture that is sure to please. The recipe also includes a video tutorial, making it easy for beginners to follow along.
5of 20
Italian Rainbow Cookies (Tricolor Cookies with Video!)
Main Ingredients: Vegan Butter, Sugar, Almond Paste, Dairy Free Milk
If you're a visual learner, this recipe is perfect for you. Not only does it include a video tutorial, but it also has step-by-step instructions with pictures to help guide you through the process. These tricolor cookies are made with almond paste and have a unique marbled effect that will make your cookies stand out from the rest.
6of 20
Italian Almond Paste Cookies
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Almond Paste, Granulated Sugar, Salt
Almond paste is a staple in many Italian desserts, and for good reason. It adds a rich and nutty flavor to any recipe, including these Italian almond paste cookies. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these cookies are easy to make and are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they make your kitchen smell amazing while they're baking.
No Italian recipe list is complete without a classic meatball recipe. These Italian meatballs are big, juicy, and bursting with flavor. They're great on their own, but even better when paired with your favorite pasta and sauce. Try making them with a mix of beef and pork for ultimate deliciousness.
Looking for a unique twist on traditional Italian cookies? These almond cookies are just what you need. Made with almond paste and almond extract, they have a strong and distinct almond flavor that sets them apart from other cookies. Plus, they're gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
9of 20
Italian Meatballs {Great Big Italian Meatballs}
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Egg, Fresh Bread Crumbs
If you like your meatballs big and bold, then this recipe is for you. These great big Italian meatballs are a meal in themselves and are perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. They're also great for freezing, so you can have a delicious and hearty meal on hand whenever you need it.
Ricotta cheese isn't just for savory dishes, it's also great in desserts. These Italian ricotta cookies are light, fluffy, and have a subtle sweetness that makes them perfect for snacking on any time of day. They're also great for dipping in a cup of coffee or tea.
If you're in the mood for something warm and comforting, look no further than this classic Italian wedding soup. Made with flavorful chicken broth, delicious meatballs, and tender pasta, this soup is a meal in itself. It's also a great way to use up any leftover Italian meatballs you may have.
12of 20
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-limits. But with this recipe for keto stuffed peppers, you can still enjoy all the flavors of Italy without breaking your diet. These peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, Italian seasonings, and cheese, making them a delicious and satisfying meal.
13of 20
Cucidati Italian Christmas Fig Cookies
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Vanilla Extract
Christmas wouldn't be complete without a batch of these traditional Italian fig cookies. They are a staple in many Italian households during the holiday season and are filled with a sweet and flavorful fig filling. They may take a bit of time to make, but they are well worth the effort.
Need a quick and easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love? Look no further than this Italian crescent casserole. Made with layers of crescent rolls, Italian meats and cheeses, and a savory tomato sauce, this casserole is sure to become a go-to meal in your household.
Another great keto-friendly option, these Italian meatballs are made with almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, making them low-carb and gluten-free. They're also packed with flavor and are sure to satisfy any meatball craving you may have.
If you're looking for a tasty appetizer or party snack, these Italian sausage-stuffed mushrooms are the way to go. The combination of spicy Italian sausage, creamy cheese, and tender mushrooms make for a mouthwatering bite-sized treat. They're also easy to make and can be customized to your spice preferences.
17of 20
Quick and Easy Italian Meatballs
Main Ingredients: 85 Lean Ground Beef, Garlic, Large Eggs, Dried
Short on time but still craving some Italian meatballs? This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. These quick and easy Italian meatballs are ready in just 30 minutes and are sure to become a family favorite.
18of 20
Sheet Pan Italian Chicken Dinner
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, Extra Virgin Olive
One-pan meals are a lifesaver for busy nights, and this sheet pan Italian chicken dinner is no exception. It's packed with flavor from Italian seasonings, juicy chicken, and a variety of vegetables. Plus, clean-up is a breeze, making this recipe a winner all around.
19of 20
Hearty Italian Beef and Vegetable Soup
Main Ingredients: Medium Onion, Garlic Cloves, Large Carrots, Celery
When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a hearty bowl of soup. This Italian beef and vegetable soup is filled with tender chunks of beef, a variety of vegetables, and flavorful Italian seasonings. It's a meal in itself and will warm you up from the inside out.
20of 20
Italian Pork Kabobs with Summer Vegetables
Main Ingredients: Pork Loin Roast, Red Wine Vinegar, Kosher Salt, Red
Looking for a new way to enjoy your summer vegetables? These Italian pork kabobs are the perfect solution. The combination of juicy pork, tender vegetables, and flavorful Italian marinade make for a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for grilling season.
The History of Italian Rainbow Cookies
The Origins
The origins of the Italian rainbow cookie can be traced back to the 19th century in Naples, Italy. It is said that these cookies were created to resemble the Italian flag, with the colors red, white, and green representing the nation's colors. However, some also believe that these cookies were inspired by the French petit fours, which are small layered cakes. Regardless of its true origins, the Italian rainbow cookie has become a beloved treat in Italy and beyond.
The Evolution
As Italian immigrants began to settle in the United States, they brought their beloved recipes with them, including the traditional Italian rainbow cookie. Over time, the recipe evolved to include ingredients that were more readily available in the new country, such as almond paste and food coloring. Today, these cookies are a popular dessert in Italian-American households and can also be found in many bakeries and pastry shops.
The Recipe
Now, let's dive into the steps of making these delectable cookies at home. Some of the main ingredients you will need are almond paste, flour, sugar, eggs, and food coloring.
Step 1: Prepare the Almond Paste
Start by breaking the almond paste into small pieces and placing it in a mixing bowl. Add in the sugar and mix until well combined. You can also add in some almond extract for an extra boost of flavor.
Step 2: Add in the Flour
Next, gradually add in the flour to the almond paste mixture and mix until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough together to fully incorporate the ingredients.
Step 3: Divide and Color the Dough
Divide the dough into three equal portions and place each in a separate bowl. Add a few drops of red food coloring to one bowl, green to another, and leave the third as is for the white layer. Make sure to fully incorporate the food coloring into the dough until you achieve the desired color.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Once the dough is colored, roll out each portion into a rectangular shape and stack them on top of each other, with the red layer on the bottom, then white, and finally green on top. Use a rolling pin to gently press the layers together. Place the stacked dough onto a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden on the edges.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool. Once cooled, place them in the refrigerator for at least an hour to firm up. Once chilled, slice the cookies into small squares and serve. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy Your Traditional Italian Rainbow Cookies
Now that you have the recipe, you can easily recreate these traditional Italian rainbow cookies at home. These colorful and tasty treats are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. With a little bit of history and a lot of love, these cookies are a delicious way to celebrate Italian culture and tradition. Buon appetito!
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-701112556-5a57ea0a47c26600374c1067.jpg)
