Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Italian Easter Cookies

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 15 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Italian Easter Cookies (Uncinetti) are a traditional Southern Italian treat, featuring a light lemon flavor and a delicate, soft texture. Perfectly sweetened and topped with a simple lemon glaze, these cookies are ideal for Easter celebrations or enjoying with coffee or tea. Try this easy homemade Italian cookie recipe today!


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 1 lemon
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup butter (melted and cooled)
  • 4 tablespoons milk (2% recommended)

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • 1 ½2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (adjust as needed)
  • 1 tablespoon milk (adjust as needed)

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Dough

  • Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • 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.
  • Mix with a fork until almost combined, then transfer to a flat surface and gently knead until smooth.

2️⃣ Shape the Cookies

  • Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into thin 5-6 inch ropes.
  • Form knots or shape them into circles.
  • Place on the prepared baking sheet.

3️⃣ Bake the Cookies

  • Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden.
  • Let cool completely before glazing.

4️⃣ Prepare the Lemon Glaze

  • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth.
  • Adjust consistency by adding more milk if needed.

5️⃣ Glaze and Serve

  • Dip each cooled cookie into the glaze or drizzle it on top.
  • Let the glaze set before serving.

Notes

Almond Flavor: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract for a nutty twist.
Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of lemon glaze, drizzle with melted chocolate.
Olive Oil Option: Substitute butter with light olive oil for a different texture.
Vanilla Twist: Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for a subtle sweetness.