The Ultimate Guide to Baking Delicious Italian Tea Cookies Recipe: A Step-by-Step Journey

#### Introduction to Italian Tea CookiesItalian tea cookies, known for their delicate texture and delightful flavors, are a beloved treat enjoyed during tea……

#### Introduction to Italian Tea Cookies

Italian tea cookies, known for their delicate texture and delightful flavors, are a beloved treat enjoyed during tea time or festive gatherings. These cookies are not only simple to make but also offer a wonderful way to impress your friends and family with your baking skills. In this guide, we will explore an easy-to-follow Italian tea cookies recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

#### Ingredients for Italian Tea Cookies Recipe

To create the perfect batch of Italian tea cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup powdered sugar

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

- Additional powdered sugar for dusting

These ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

2. **Mix the Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in a tender cookie.

3. **Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients**: Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can lead to tough cookies.

4. **Incorporate Nuts or Chocolate Chips**: If you’re using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the dough at this stage. They add texture and flavor, making your cookies even more delightful.

5. **Shape the Cookies**: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

6. **Bake**: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

7. **Cool and Dust**: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the cookies with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

#### Serving Suggestions

Italian tea cookies are best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They can be served as a delightful snack or as part of a dessert platter during special occasions. Consider pairing them with a variety of teas, such as Earl Grey or chamomile, to enhance the experience.

#### Storage Tips

To keep your Italian tea cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long!

#### Conclusion

Now that you have the ultimate Italian tea cookies recipe, it's time to gather your ingredients and start baking. These cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to share love and warmth with those around you. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!