If you’re like me and grew up with the irresistible aromas of Italian cookies baking in the kitchen, you know there’s nothing quite like them! Whether it’s a festive wedding cookie display, a Christmas assortment, or simply enjoying a small, decorated biscotto with your coffee, Italian cookies bring authentic flavors to any occasion.
From classic favorites passed down through generations to unique varieties perfect for Easter or the holidays, this roundup of traditional and easy-to-make Italian cookie recipes will transport you to the heart of Italy with every bite. Perfect for creating an authentic Italian-themed cookie tray, these old-world treats will leave everyone asking for more!
21. Chewy Italian Amaretti Cookies
Amaretti Cookies are one of the most authentic Italian cookies you can find, known for their crispy exterior and soft, chewy center. Made with ground almonds and flavored with almond liqueur, these classic Italian cookies are a favorite around holidays and special occasions.
I remember trying them for the first time at a family gathering, and the rich almond flavor instantly hooked me. These traditional Italian cookies are perfect with an afternoon espresso or as part of an Italian cookies tray for celebrations. Their simplicity and unique texture make them an unforgettable treat!
20. Authentic Italian Butter Cookies
Italian Butter Cookies, or “biscotti al burro,” are a staple of any Italian cookies traditional collection, known for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies are often found in bakeries all over Italy and are especially popular during the holidays and special occasions like weddings.
What I love most about these classic Italian cookies is their versatility—you can pipe them into different shapes and decorate them with chocolate, sprinkles, or cherries. They’re perfect for a festive Italian cookies tray, whether you’re gifting them or enjoying them with a cup of espresso. These simple yet indulgent cookies are a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of Italy to their dessert table.
19. Crunchy Italian Sesame Cookies
Italian Sesame Cookies, or Biscotti Reginelle, are one of the most authentic Italian cookies you’ll find, especially in Sicily. These traditional Italian cookies are coated with sesame seeds and flavored with vanilla and a hint of orange zest, giving them a deliciously fragrant and nutty crunch.
Known as “Queen’s Cookies,” they’re perfect for serving to guests or enjoying with a cup of coffee or sweet wine. These classic Italian cookies have been passed down through generations, making them a beloved staple at family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions.
18. Easy Pizzelle Cookies
Pizzelle are one of the most iconic traditional Italian cookies, known for their beautiful lace-like designs and crisp texture. Typically flavored with anise, vanilla, or lemon, they’re made using a special pizzelle iron that creates their unique shape.
These authentic Italian cookies are a staple at weddings, holidays, and family gatherings, bringing a little bit of Italy’s rich baking tradition to every occasion!
17. Classic Italian Wedding Cookies (Anginetti Biscuit)
Italian Wedding Cookies, also known as Anginetti, are a true staple of old-world Italian celebrations. These lightly sweetened, cake-like cookies, traditionally flavored with anise, almond, or lemon, are often found on dessert tables at weddings and holidays.
The delicate sugar glaze and colorful sprinkles make them a festive treat for any occasion. Soft and perfect for dunking in coffee, they’re a must-have for anyone wanting a taste of Italy’s rich baking tradition.
16. Homemade Italian Anise Cookies
These Italian anise cookies are a family favorite. They’re light, slightly moist, and dipped in a sweet anise-flavored glaze, which gives them their distinct taste. The sprinkles on top add a festive touch!
Although traditionally enjoyed at special occasions, these cookies are also perfect for everyday indulgence. Whether you’re familiar with Italian treats or trying them for the first time, they’re bound to be a hit.
15. Soft Italian Almond Cookies
Known as pasticcini di mandorla, these Italian almond cookies are naturally gluten-free and made with almond flour, egg whites, and almond extract.
Topped with whole or sliced almonds, or even maraschino cherries, they are soft, chewy, and perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
14. Italian Lemon Drop Cookies
These Italian lemon drop cookies are a refreshing treat with a citrusy kick. Their soft, cake-like texture pairs perfectly with the tangy-sweet lemon glaze on top.
They’re quick to make and bring a light, zesty flavor to any cookie tray, making them a family favorite.
13. Traditional Italian Fig Cookies (Cucidati Biscuit)
Also known as cucidati, these Italian fig cookies are a unique combination of spiced fig filling wrapped in buttery pastry, drizzled with lemon glaze, and topped with sprinkles.
The fig filling blends figs, dates, almonds, and citrus, creating a fruity and aromatic flavor. These cookies are enjoyed across Italy, particularly in Sicily, and are a delightful addition to any dessert table.
12. Gluten-Free Italian Almond Cookies (Ricciarelli Biscuit)
Ricciarelli are chewy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and naturally gluten-free. Made with almond flour and coated in almond flakes, these cookies are a fantastic treat for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Their simple ingredients and incredible flavor make them a favorite for any occasion.
11. Crunchy Italian Spumoni Cookies
Italian Spumoni Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian themed cookies, inspired by the layered gelato dessert, spumoni. These traditional Italian cookies combine cherry, chocolate, and pistachio flavors to create a colorful and flavorful treat.
I first tried these at an Italian bakery, and the combination of textures and flavors immediately brought back memories of authentic Italian desserts. These cookies are a perfect fusion of Italian heritage and American creativity, making them a unique addition to any cookie platter, whether it’s for a festive Italian cookies tray or just a cozy coffee break.
10. Classic Italian Knot Cookies
Italian knot cookies, with their soft, cake-like texture, are drizzled with a sweet lemon glaze and decorated with sprinkles. The knot shape symbolizes “tying the knot,” making these cookies popular for weddings and other celebrations.
Traditionally paired with espresso or tea, they’re perfect for any gathering.
9. Authentic Italian Ricotta Cookies
These soft and melt-in-your-mouth ricotta cookies are a family staple. The ricotta gives them a light, moist texture, and they’re topped with a sweet glaze and sprinkles. Perfect for both festive occasions and everyday treats, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.
8. Classic Italian Biscotti
These crunchy biscotti, filled with candied fruits and nuts, are twice-baked and ideal for dipping in coffee or tea. Biscotti have been a staple in Italian baking since the 14th century, and their long shelf life makes them perfect for gifting or enjoying any time.
7. Crunchy Honey & Hazelnut Italian Cookies
Morselletti, from the Cilento region, are honey biscotti packed with hazelnuts and cinnamon. Their rich flavor and satisfying crunch make them a perfect treat to share. Traditionally served at weddings and other celebrations, these biscotti are simple yet delicious.
6. Traditional Italian Chocolate Cookies (Toto Biscuit)
Toto cookies, made with cocoa, walnuts, and spices like cinnamon and cloves, are rich and flavorful. Topped with chocolate glaze and sprinkles, they’re a delicious part of Italian traditions. Each family adds their own twist, making them unique to every household.
5. Easy Italian Pignoli Cookies
These chewy, nutty pignoli cookies are made with almond paste and coated in pine nuts. Naturally gluten-free, they’re easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Pignoli cookies are perfect for any gathering or as a thoughtful gift.
4. Best Italian Cannoli Cookies
These cannoli-inspired cookies bring the nostalgic flavors of ricotta, chocolate chips, and pistachios into a bite-sized treat. They’re a playful twist on the classic cannoli and are always a hit at gatherings.
3. Soft & Crunchy Italian Tiramisu Cookies
These tiramisu cookies blend the rich flavors of coffee and mascarpone cream into a soft, coffee-flavored treat. Topped with creamy mascarpone and dusted with cocoa powder, they’re a beautiful and delicious option for any occasion.
2. Authentic Panettone Cookies
Inspired by the famous Milanese bread, panettone cookies are filled with dried fruits and almonds, with hints of orange and chocolate. They’re easier to make than a full panettone but still deliver all the traditional flavors.
1. Soft Nutella Cookies
For Nutella lovers, these soft cookies with a Nutella-filled center are a dream come true. Sprinkled with chopped hazelnuts, they’re a delicious and indulgent treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. These easy-to-make cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
