Italian Wedding Cookies
Italian Wedding Cookies are a delightful treat that often find their way to festive occasions, but they are perfect for any time you crave a sweet, nutty bite. These cookies are a harmonious blend of finely ground nuts, buttery richness, and a dusting of powdered sugar that creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience. With their delicate texture and nutty flavor, Italian Wedding Cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes this recipe truly special is the use of finely ground pistachios, which lend a unique flavor and vibrant color to the cookies. Unlike traditional recipes that may rely solely on almonds, this version embraces the earthiness of pistachios, resulting in a cookie that’s both elegant and indulgent. The combination of buttery goodness and sweet nuttiness is a match made in heaven, making these cookies a standout at any gathering.
What You’ll Gather
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups finely ground pistachios (or almonds)
- 2 cups powdered sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
Tools of the Trade
- Mixing bowl – To combine your ingredients seamlessly.
- Electric mixer – For easy creaming of the butter and sugar.
- Baking sheets – A must for baking your cookies evenly.
- Parchment paper – To prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Cookie scoop – For uniform cookie sizes.
- Cooling rack – Allows cookies to cool properly.
Italian Wedding Cookies in Steps
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, finely ground pistachios, and salt. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the dry ingredients and helps to avoid clumping.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar together using an electric mixer. Mix until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The texture should be creamy, and the mixture should be pale in color.
Step 4: Add Vanilla
Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined with the butter-sugar mixture.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread slightly during baking.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still look a bit soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Dust with Sugar
Once the cookies are out of the oven and cooled slightly, roll them in the remaining powdered sugar while they are still warm. This gives them that signature snow-dusted appearance.
Step 9: Cool Completely
Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool completely before storing or serving.
Ingredient Flex Options
- Nut substitutions: If you’re not a fan of pistachios, almonds or walnuts make excellent alternatives.
- Flour alternatives: For a gluten-free version, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
- Flavor variations: Enhance the flavor with a touch of almond extract in addition to the vanilla.
- Sweetness adjustments: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar used for rolling.
Little Things that Matter
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- For a more intense nut flavor, lightly toast the finely ground pistachios before mixing them into the dough.
- Letting the dough chill for about 30 minutes can help the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
- Be generous with the powdered sugar dusting; it not only adds sweetness but also enhances the visual appeal.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
Italian Wedding Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them later, freezing is an excellent option. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up.
Ask & Learn
Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe features pistachios, feel free to use finely ground almonds, walnuts, or even pecans for a different flavor profile.
What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too dry and crumbly, add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until the mixture comes together more easily.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers still look a bit soft. They will continue to set as they cool.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance, shape it into balls, and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them into the oven directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Quick Weeknight Wins
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – Check out her other delightful cookie recipes.
- Pinch of Yum – Discover tasty treats and beautiful photography.
- Minimalist Baker – Explore easy, plant-based recipes that everyone will love.
Time to Try It
With the holidays around the corner or any special occasion in sight, there’s no better time to whip up a batch of these delectable Italian Wedding Cookies. They are not just cookies; they are a tradition of love and celebration, perfect for sharing with family and friends. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and enjoy the process of creating these delightful treats. Whether you’re celebrating a wedding or simply indulging in a sweet moment, Italian Wedding Cookies are sure to bring joy to your table. Happy baking!
Italian Wedding Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, finely ground pistachios, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Once baked, roll the cookies in the remaining powdered sugar while they are still warm.
- Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool completely.
Notes
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Lightly toast the finely ground pistachios for a more intense flavor.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes to maintain cookie shape during baking.
