Description
Italian butter cookies, or Pasta Frolla Montata, are classic melt-in-your-mouth treats made with a rich, buttery dough. These elegant cookies are piped into beautiful shapes and decorated with chocolate, chopped nuts, or candied cherries. Light, crisp, and slightly sweet, they are perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or alongside a cup of espresso.
Ingredients
Units
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For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For Decoration:
- 1/2 cup dark or milk chocolate, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios or hazelnuts
- Candied cherries or sprinkles
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Bake:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
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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.
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Serve & Enjoy:
- These cookies pair perfectly with espresso, cappuccino, or tea!
Notes
- Use room-temperature butter for the best texture and easy piping.
- If the dough is too stiff to pipe, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk to soften it.
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- For a more traditional Italian touch, add a hint of almond or lemon zest to the dough.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal per cookie
