Description
Delight in these delicate Italian Leaf Cookies, featuring a buttery, tender dough shaped like leaves and lightly dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for a sweet treat or a festive gathering, these cookies combine simple ingredients and classic techniques for an elegant result.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Finishing
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is soft and smooth. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, then mix again until the dough is creamy and well combined.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of additional flour to achieve manageable consistency.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to roll out and shape.
- Shape the Cookies: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out flat on a lightly floured surface. Using a leaf-shaped cutter, cut out the cookie shapes; if you do not have a cutter, carefully use a sharp knife to create leaf shapes.
- Add Leaf Details: With a small knife, gently draw lines on each cookie to mimic the veins of a leaf, adding visual texture and charm.
- Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, place the shaped cookies on it, and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cookies are lightly golden at the edges.
- Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust them generously with extra powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Notes
- For sturdier cookies that hold their shape better, ensure the dough is well chilled before cutting.
- If you don’t have a leaf cutter, use a template or freehand cut with a knife carefully.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and better texture.
- For a different flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the dough.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
