Italian butter cookies, or Pasta Frolla Montata, are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treats made with a rich, buttery dough. These elegant cookies are piped into beautiful shapes and often decorated with chocolate, chopped nuts, or candied cherries. Light, crisp, and slightly sweet, they are perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoyed with a cup of espresso or tea.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Buttery Flavor – Made with real butter for an authentic Italian taste.
- Beautiful Presentation – The piped shapes and chocolate decoration make them visually appealing.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for holidays, parties, or an elegant tea-time treat.
- Customizable Toppings – Dip in chocolate, add nuts, or use candied fruit for variety.
- Easy to Make – A simple dough that pipes effortlessly for professional-looking cookies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
For Decoration:
- ½ cup dark or milk chocolate, melted
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios or hazelnuts
- Candied cherries or sprinkles
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, salt, and baking powder, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth and pipeable.
- Pipe the Cookies: Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe the dough into rosettes, rings, or classic straight shapes onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Decorate:
- Dip the cooled cookies into melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped pistachios or hazelnuts.
- Press a candied cherry into the center of some cookies before baking for a classic touch.
- Serve & Enjoy: These cookies pair perfectly with espresso, cappuccino, or tea!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Calories: 120 kcal per cookie
Variations
- Lemon Butter Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a bright citrus twist.
- Almond-Flavored Cookies: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty aroma.
- Coconut-Coated Cookies: Roll the edges of chocolate-dipped cookies in shredded coconut.
- Coffee-Infused Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the dough for a subtle coffee flavor.
- Hazelnut Spread Filling: Sandwich two cookies with Nutella or a chocolate-hazelnut spread.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 10 days to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: These cookies do not require reheating but can be warmed slightly in a low-temperature oven if desired.
FAQs
Why is my dough too thick to pipe?
If the dough is too stiff, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk to soften it for easier piping.
Can I make these cookies without a piping bag?
Yes, you can roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly before baking.
What type of chocolate works best for dipping?
Dark, milk, or white chocolate all work well, depending on your preference.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute for a similar texture.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure the butter is softened but not melted, and chill the piped cookies for 10-15 minutes before baking.
Can I add cocoa powder to make chocolate butter cookies?
Yes, replace ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
Should I sift the powdered sugar before adding it?
Sifting helps achieve a smoother dough, but it is not strictly necessary.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used as a substitute.
How do I make the cookies extra crispy?
Bake them for an additional 1-2 minutes until they are slightly more golden.
Can I store the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
Conclusion
Italian butter cookies (Pasta Frolla Montata) are an elegant and delicious treat with a rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture. Whether dipped in chocolate, filled with jam, or decorated with nuts and cherries, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Try this simple yet sophisticated recipe today and enjoy a classic Italian delight with your favorite coffee or tea!
