Italian Easter Cookies (Uncinetti) – Traditional & Easy Recipe

Italian Easter Cookies, also known as Uncinetti, are a classic Southern Italian treat made especially for Easter celebrations. These delightful cookies have a light, cake-like texture, with just the right amount of sweetness. They are infused with fresh lemon zest, giving them a refreshing citrus flavor, and are finished with a simple, glossy lemon glaze. These cookies are often shaped into rings or twists and sometimes decorated with colorful sprinkles, making them a fun and festive addition to any Easter gathering.

If you’ve never tried baking these traditional Italian cookies, you’re in for a treat. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of pantry staples. The dough comes together in just a few minutes, and the cookies bake quickly, making them a great last-minute dessert for any occasion.

One of the best things about these cookies is their versatility. While the traditional version is flavored with lemon, you can easily customize them with almond, vanilla, or even anise extract for a slightly different taste. Plus, they pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk, making them perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert.

Whether you’re making them for Easter, a family gathering, or just because you love simple and delicious homemade cookies, this recipe is a must-try. These cookies are not overly sweet, have a beautiful soft texture, and the zesty glaze takes them to the next level.

Let’s get started on making this classic Italian favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Italian Easter Cookies have been a favorite for generations, and once you try them, you’ll see why. They are simple yet delicious, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

1. Easy to Make

This recipe is beginner-friendly, requiring only basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. The dough is quick to prepare, and no special equipment is needed.

2. Perfectly Balanced Sweetness

Unlike many cookies, Uncinetti are not overly sweet. The dough has just a touch of sugar, allowing the zesty lemon glaze to shine. If you prefer mildly sweet treats, these cookies are perfect for you.

3. Soft and Tender Texture

These cookies are light and cake-like, with a soft texture that melts in your mouth. They are not crunchy, making them perfect for those who love softer baked goods.

4. Customizable Flavors

While lemon is the traditional flavor, you can easily change things up. Try adding almond extract, vanilla, or anise for a different twist. You can even make a chocolate version by adding cocoa powder to the dough.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookies are most commonly baked for Easter, but they are great year-round. They make a beautiful addition to holiday cookie trays, family gatherings, or even as a simple treat to enjoy with your morning coffee.

6. Family-Friendly & Kid-Approved

Kids love these cookies, especially when decorated with colorful sprinkles. They are fun to shape, making them a great baking project to do with children.

7. Great for Gifting

Since these cookies keep well for several days, they make wonderful homemade gifts. Pack them in a decorative tin or box, and they are sure to bring joy to anyone who receives them.

Health Benefits

While Italian Easter Cookies are an indulgent treat, they also come with a few health benefits, especially when compared to other, more decadent desserts.

1. Lower Sugar Content

Unlike rich cakes or chocolate-filled pastries, these cookies contain less sugar, making them a better option for those looking to enjoy a treat without overwhelming sweetness. The glaze adds just enough flavor without making them too sugary.

2. Light and Digestible

These cookies are not heavy on the stomach, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer lighter desserts. They contain no heavy creams or rich fillings, so they are easy to digest.

3. Natural Lemon Flavor

Lemon zest provides a boost of vitamin C and gives these cookies their refreshing citrus flavor. Natural lemon flavoring is antioxidant-rich and may help with digestion and immune support.

4. No Artificial Ingredients

When you make these cookies at home, you control the ingredients. There are no artificial preservatives or additives, making them a healthier alternative to store-bought treats.

5. Customizable for Dietary Needs

This recipe can be easily adapted for those with dietary restrictions. You can make them gluten-free by using almond flour or gluten-free flour, and they can be made dairy-free by substituting olive oil for butter and using plant-based milk.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation Time:

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 15-18 minutes

Servings:

This recipe makes about 20 cookies, depending on the size and shape of each cookie.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):

• Calories: 85
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 1.5g
• Fat: 3g
• Sugars: 6g
• Fiber: 0.5g

Ingredients List

To make these traditional Italian Easter Cookies, you’ll need basic pantry ingredients that come together to create a delightful, lightly sweet treat.

The Cookies:

• 1 ½ cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (200g total)
• 3 ¼ tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 pinch salt (¼ teaspoon if using unsalted butter)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup melted butter (cooled)
• 4 tablespoons milk (2% recommended)

The Lemon Glaze:

• 1 ½ – 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
3. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add egg, melted butter, and milk.
4. Stir gently with a fork until the mixture starts coming together.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently until the dough is smooth and pliable. Do not overwork the dough, as this can make the cookies too dense.

2. Shape the Cookies

6. Take small pieces of dough and roll them into thin ropes, about 5-6 inches (13-16 cm) long.
7. Shape the ropes into knots, twists, or small circles—the traditional Uncinetti shape.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

3. Bake the Cookies

9. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges.
10. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before glazing.

4. Prepare the Lemon Glaze

11. In a small bowl, sift the powdered sugar, then add the lemon juice and milk.
12. Stir until the glaze is smooth and reaches your desired consistency.

5. Glaze the Cookies

13. Dip the cooled cookies into the glaze or drizzle it over them with a spoon.
14. Let the glaze set completely before serving.

How to Serve

Italian Easter Cookies are best enjoyed fresh and can be served in a variety of ways. These cookies are soft, lightly sweet, and have a bright lemon flavor, making them a versatile treat for different occasions.

1. Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

These cookies are a perfect match for a hot cup of coffee or tea. Their delicate sweetness and soft texture make them great for dipping into a warm drink. Whether you prefer espresso, cappuccino, black tea, or herbal tea, Uncinetti are a delightful complement to any beverage.

2. Serve as a Breakfast Treat

In many Italian households, these cookies are enjoyed in the morning with a glass of milk or freshly squeezed orange juice. They are a light alternative to pastries and a wonderful way to start the day with a touch of sweetness.

3. Add to a Dessert Platter

For family gatherings or special occasions, you can serve these cookies as part of a larger dessert spread. Pair them with:

• Tiramisu for an elegant Italian-themed dessert table.
• Fruit and cheese platters for a balance of sweet and savory.
• Other Italian cookies, like biscotti and amaretti, for a beautiful variety.

4. Decorate for Festive Occasions

If you’re making these cookies for Easter, consider adding pastel-colored sprinkles to the glaze before it sets. For Christmas, use red and green sprinkles to make them festive. These cookies can be easily customized for any holiday celebration.

5. Serve as a Light Dessert

After a big meal, these cookies provide a refreshing, not-too-heavy dessert option. Serve them alongside fresh fruit or a small scoop of vanilla gelato for an extra-special treat.

Pairing Suggestions

While Italian Easter Cookies are wonderful on their own, pairing them with the right beverages and side treats can make them even more enjoyable.

1. Classic Italian Beverages

Pair these cookies with traditional Italian drinks for an authentic experience.

• Espresso – The strong, rich flavor of espresso contrasts beautifully with the light sweetness of the cookies.
• Cappuccino – A frothy cappuccino enhances the lemony flavor and soft texture of the cookies.
• Latte – A creamy latte balances the mild sweetness of the cookies, making for a perfect morning treat.

2. Herbal and Floral Teas

If you prefer tea over coffee, Uncinetti pairs well with light, citrusy, or floral teas.

• Chamomile tea – A calming tea with a delicate flavor that complements the lemon glaze.
• Earl Grey tea – The bergamot notes in Earl Grey tea work beautifully with the citrus flavors in the cookies.
• Lemon-ginger tea – Enhances the lemon zest in the cookies for a refreshing and bright pairing.

3. Fresh Fruit

Pairing these cookies with fresh fruit makes for a light and refreshing dessert.

• Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries – Their natural sweetness contrasts with the cookies’ mild flavor.
• Sliced oranges – The citrus notes in the oranges enhance the cookies’ lemony taste.
• Grapes and figs – Provide a natural sweetness that pairs well with Uncinetti.

4. Dairy Pairings

For a creamier experience, pair these cookies with soft cheeses or dairy-based sides.

• Ricotta cheese with honey – A classic Italian pairing that adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness.
• Mascarpone cheese – Serve a small dollop on the side for an elegant dessert plate.
• Greek yogurt with honey – A protein-rich pairing that enhances the cookie’s delicate flavor.

5. Light Desserts and Ice Cream

If you want to elevate your dessert game, pair these cookies with light, creamy treats.

• Lemon sorbet – Enhances the citrus flavors in the cookies.
• Vanilla gelato – A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Panna cotta – An Italian custard dessert that pairs well with the delicate flavors of Uncinetti.

These pairing ideas help bring out the best in Italian Easter Cookies, making them a wonderful treat for any time of day.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Store Freshly Baked Cookies

If you plan to enjoy the cookies over several days, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh.

• At Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
• In the Refrigerator: If you live in a humid climate, you can store the cookies in the fridge. They will last up to 10 days, but bring them to room temperature before serving to restore their texture.

Freeze Italian Easter Cookies

These cookies freeze very well, making them great for meal prep or special occasions.

• To Freeze Unbaked Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a zip-top freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.
• To Freeze Baked Cookies: Once the cookies have completely cooled, place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat Cookies

If your cookies have been stored in the freezer, you can easily bring them back to life.

• At Room Temperature: Let the cookies sit out for 20-30 minutes until fully thawed.
• In the Oven: Warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to restore freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though these cookies are simple to make, a few small mistakes can affect the final result. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Overmixing the Dough

Overworking the dough can make the cookies dense and tough instead of light and soft. Mix the ingredients just until combined and knead the dough gently.

2. Adding Too Much Flour

Adding extra flour can make the cookies dry and crumbly. Be sure to measure the flour correctly by using the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping directly from the bag.

3. Skipping the Lemon Zest

The lemon zest is key to the traditional flavor of these cookies. Don’t skip it! It adds a fresh citrus aroma that makes these cookies unique.

4. Baking at Too High a Temperature

These cookies should be baked slowly at 300°F (150°C). A higher temperature can cause them to brown too quickly and lose their soft texture.

Conclusion and Call To action :

These classic Italian Easter Cookies (Uncinetti) are a delightful and simple homemade treat, perfect for Easter and beyond. With their light sweetness, soft texture, and refreshing lemon glaze, they are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Now it’s time to bake your own batch! Let me know how they turn out, and feel free to share your creations with family and friends. Happy baking!

Print