Amaretti Cookies Amaretti Cookies originated between the 17th and 18th centuries in Saronno, Italy, a city just north of Milan in Lombardy.   The name Amaretti Cookies comes from the Italian word “amaro,” meaning “bitter”. This refers to the bitter flavor of almonds or apricot kernels, […]

Italian Almond Crescent Cookies I have been making these Italian Almond Crescent Cookies cookies for Christmas since the late ’70s.  I have also seen this cookie called a Crescent Moon Cookies or a Moon Spell Cookies due to its shape.  No matter what you call […]

Almond Biscotti Almond Biscotti, a classic Italian cookie!  Biscotti, also known as cantucci, originated in the city of Prato.  These oblong-shaped cookies are always twice-baked.  They are crunchy and meant to be dipped into a drink such as coffee, tea or wine.  Unlike other Italian […]

Pizzelle (Italian Waffle Cookies) Pizzelle is a  classic Italian wafer cookie that is sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar.  They are typically lightly flavored with anise.  However, other flavors such as vanilla, almond or lemon are also used. Cocoa powder and a little extra sugar can also […]

Cocoa Cookies (Italian Cocoa Cookies) My cookie factory is in full swing for the holidays!  I think these are my favorite Italian Cocoa cookies!  Rich cocoa and warm spices with a light icing on top…so good!  These drop cookies are really simple and quick to […]

Cuccidati Cuccidati (Sicilian Fig Cookies) are fig and nut stuffed cookies traditionally served at Christmas, weddings or other special occasions.  I am not sure why, but my Mother called them Wish-A-Da-Da’s.  My Grandmother spoke broken English.  It is possible that my Mother didn’t understand what […]

Sesame Seed Cookies I probably mentioned this before, but holiday cookie making for the holidays at my house has always been a big production.  I started this tradition back in the late 1970s.  I typically make at least 30 different cookies with 10 dozen each.  […]