Italian Butterball Cookies

Experience the enchanting realm of Italian Butterball Cookies, where every bite transports you to the heart of timeless baking traditions. These delectable treats are perfect for various occasions, from festive gatherings to cozy afternoons. The unique blend of buttery richness combined with vanilla and almond extracts makes them irresistible. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar, these cookies not only delight your taste buds but also appeal to the eyes. Indulge in this sweet treat that captures the essence of Italian charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for bakers of any skill level.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon tea, these cookies fit right in.
• Delightful Flavor: The combination of vanilla and almond extracts brings a unique twist to each bite.
• Beautiful Presentation: A sprinkle of sugar gives these cookies a stunning finish, making them visually appealing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them alone or pair with coffee or tea for a delightful experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Italian Butterball Cookies, gather the essential tools and equipment for a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These allow for easy combining of ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheet: A quality baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 stick butter
• ¾ c confectioners’ sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 ½ c all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 pinch salt

For Coating

• ¼ c confectioners’ sugar (for coating)

How to Make Italian Butterball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and lightly grease a baking sheet.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a bowl, beat together one stick of butter and three-fourths of a cup of confectioners’ sugar until smooth.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Incorporate one egg, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and one teaspoon of almond extract into the mixture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together one and a half cups of all-purpose flour, two teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until well combined.

Step 6: Shape Dough Balls

Form the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches between each ball.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place the cookies in your oven. Bake for approximately 10 minutes or until they become firm.

Step 8: Cool Before Coating

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Coat with Sugar

Roll each cooled cookie in a quarter cup of confectioners’ sugar for added sweetness.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Savor these delicious homemade Italian Butterball Cookies!

How to Serve Italian Butterball Cookies

Italian Butterball Cookies are delightful treats that can elevate any gathering or personal moment of indulgence. Their rich flavor and charming appearance make them perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pair these cookies with your favorite tea, such as Earl Grey or chamomile, to complement their buttery richness and subtle sweetness.

Festive Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter alongside other sweets like chocolate truffles or fruit tarts for a stunning dessert display at parties.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family during holidays or special events.

Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy these cookies as a simple yet satisfying afternoon snack, either alone or with a side of fresh fruit for added freshness.

Coffee Companion

• Serve these cookies alongside a cup of coffee, enhancing the experience with their delicate flavors that harmonize beautifully with the boldness of coffee.

How to Perfect Italian Butterball Cookies

Achieving the perfect Italian Butterball Cookies requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here are some key strategies to ensure your baking turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use room temperature butter: Softer butter blends more easily with sugar, resulting in a smoother dough that bakes evenly.

• Measure flour accurately: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents dense cookies caused by excess flour.

• Chill the dough if necessary: If the dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to form balls without sticking.

• Watch baking time closely: Ovens vary; keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Butterball Cookies

While Italian Butterball Cookies shine on their own, they can be complemented by several delicious side dishes. Consider these options to create an inviting dessert spread.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that balances the richness of the cookies.
2. Gelato: Creamy gelato, especially flavors like vanilla or hazelnut, pairs beautifully with the buttery texture of the cookies.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cookies creates an indulgent treat that is sure to please chocolate lovers.
4. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream can be served on the side for dipping or dolloping atop each cookie.
5. Tea Cookies: Offer an assortment of tea-flavored cookies alongside your Italian Butterball Cookies for variety in flavors.
6. Cheese Platter: Mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone provide a savory contrast that enhances the sweet flavors of the cookies.
7. Meringues: Light and crispy meringues can serve as a textural contrast while adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table.
8. Mini Tarts: Serve mini fruit tarts filled with custard or cream to add another layer of flavor and presentation alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Italian Butterball Cookies can be a joy, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure they turn out perfectly.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use precise measurements for the best results. Invest in a kitchen scale if necessary.
• Skipping the cooling time: Patience is key! Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to prevent breakage.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Not spacing cookies properly: Ensure there’s enough space between each cookie on the baking sheet. This prevents them from spreading into each other while baking.
• Using stale ingredients: Check your baking powder and flour for freshness. Stale ingredients can ruin the rise and flavor of your cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Italian Butterball Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container after they are solid.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Butterball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 minutes for best texture.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Butterball Cookies that may help you.

How do I make Italian Butterball Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it has binding agents like xanthan gum.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to Italian Butterball Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips before forming the dough balls for added texture and flavor.

How should I store leftover Italian Butterball Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.

What is the best way to enjoy Italian Butterball Cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or dessert after meals.

Final Thoughts

Italian Butterball Cookies are delightful treats that bring warmth and charm to any occasion. Their buttery flavor combined with almond and vanilla notes makes them irresistible. Don’t hesitate to customize these cookies by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist. Enjoy this timeless recipe!

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Italian Butterball Cookies

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of Italian Butterball Cookies, a timeless treat that embodies the essence of heartfelt baking. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfectly sweetened with a harmonious blend of vanilla and almond extracts, creating a rich flavor profile that enchants every palate. Ideal for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy afternoons, they are beautifully dusted with confectioners’ sugar, making them not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Easy to prepare and versatile in serving, Italian Butterball Cookies are sure to become a cherished favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 stick butter
• ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 pinch salt
• ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (for coating)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and confectioners' sugar until smooth.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract; mix well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until fully blended.
6. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet with sufficient spacing.
7. Bake for about 10 minutes or until firm.
8. Let cool for 10 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
9. Roll each cooled cookie in confectioners’ sugar before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 94
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 49mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 12mg