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The Tradition and Joy of Italian Easter Cookies

Delight in the classic charm of Italian Uncinetti Cookies, soft and lightly sweetened treats with a bright lemon glaze. Perfect for Easter celebrations or as a delicate pairing with coffee, these traditional cookies are simple, delicious, and a true taste of Italian heritage.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 20 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

For the Cookies:
  • 1 ½ cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 200g
  • 3 ¼ tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 pinch salt or ¼ teaspoon if using unsalted butter
  • Zest of one lemon
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup butter melted and cooled
  • 4 tablespoons milk 2% preferred
For the Lemon Glaze:
  • 1 ½ - 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon milk adjust for desired consistency

Method
 

  1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Dough – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Make a well in the center and add the egg, melted butter, and milk. Stir with a fork until almost combined, then knead gently into a smooth dough.
  3. Shape the Cookies – Roll small pieces of dough into thin ropes (5-6 inches long) and form them into knots or circles. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake to Perfection – Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely before glazing.
  5. Prepare the Glaze – In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more or less milk.
  6. Glaze & Serve – Dip or drizzle cookies with the lemon glaze and let set before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
  • For a variation, substitute orange zest and juice for a citrus twist.
  • The dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust flour or milk as needed.

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