Italian Easter Cookies, also known as Uncinetti, are a delightful tradition from Southern Italy, particularly from Calabria. These knot-shaped cookies have a crisp yet tender texture and are lightly sweet, making them the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. The highlight is the lemon glaze, which adds a refreshing citrusy sweetness that complements the subtle flavors of the dough.
What makes these cookies special is their simplicity. They require just a handful of pantry staples, yet the result is a festive, elegant treat that embodies the warmth of Italian Easter celebrations. Whether you’re carrying on a family tradition or trying them for the first time, Uncinetti will bring a touch of Italy to your home this holiday season!
Full Recipe:
- 1 ½ cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (200g)
- 3 ¼ tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch salt (or ¼ teaspoon if using unsalted butter)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup butter, melted and cooled
- 4 tablespoons milk (2% recommended)
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 ½ – 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk (adjust as needed for consistency)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
- Make a well in the center and add the egg, melted butter, and milk. Stir with a fork until the mixture is mostly combined.
- Transfer to a lightly floured surface and gently knead until a smooth dough forms.
- Take small pieces of dough and roll into thin ropes, about 5-6 inches long. Shape them into knots or circles.
- Arrange on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix sifted powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Adjust thickness with more milk if needed.
- Dip or drizzle cooled cookies with glaze and allow to set before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 76 kcal | Servings: 15 cookies
Italian Easter Cookies (Uncinetti): A Delightful Easter Tradition
Italian Easter Cookies, also known as Uncinetti, are a cherished part of Italian Easter celebrations, particularly in the southern regions of Italy. These delicate, knot-shaped cookies are mildly sweet, with a crisp yet tender texture, and are typically coated with a light lemon glaze. Their simplicity, combined with a bright citrus flavor, makes them a perfect treat for springtime gatherings.
The History and Meaning Behind Uncinetti
The word “Uncinetti” in Italian means “crochet,” a reference to the traditional knotted shape of these cookies. This shape is not just for aesthetic appeal—it symbolizes continuity, unity, and the interwoven nature of family and tradition. Italian families have been making these cookies for generations, particularly for Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday, where they are often served after Easter lunch alongside coffee, tea, or a dessert wine.
These cookies originate from Calabria, a region in southern Italy, but variations of them can be found throughout the country. Some families prepare them with anise flavoring, while others stick to the classic lemon glaze. Regardless of the variation, these cookies are a staple during Easter festivities.
Why Are Italian Easter Cookies Special?
What makes Uncinetti unique is their balance of flavors and textures. Unlike modern cookies that tend to be very sweet and dense, these Italian treats are light, slightly crisp on the outside, and tender on the inside. The lemon zest in the dough adds a refreshing brightness, while the glaze provides just the right amount of sweetness.
These cookies also hold sentimental value for many Italian families. Grandmothers and mothers pass down their recipes to younger generations, keeping the tradition alive. The process of rolling and knotting the dough becomes a communal activity, often shared between parents and children, making it a cherished Easter memory.
Variations of Italian Easter Cookies
While the classic recipe features a simple lemon glaze, different regions of Italy have their own interpretations:
- Anise-Flavored Uncinetti: Some families substitute lemon zest and juice with anise extract or seeds, giving the cookies a licorice-like flavor.
- Vanilla or Almond Uncinetti: A few drops of vanilla or almond extract can be added to the dough for a slightly different taste profile.
- Chocolate-Dipped Uncinetti: Instead of glazing with lemon, some variations feature one half of the cookie dipped in dark or white chocolate.
- Colored Sprinkles: Many traditional versions are decorated with pastel-colored sprinkles, making them even more festive for Easter.
The Perfect Pairing: What to Serve with Uncinetti
Italian Easter Cookies are best enjoyed with a warm beverage. They pair exceptionally well with:
- Espresso or Cappuccino: The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Tea: A cup of chamomile or black tea enhances the citrus notes of the glaze.
- Vin Santo or Limoncello: For a traditional Italian experience, serve these cookies with a small glass of sweet dessert wine or Limoncello.
- Milk: A classic option for children, making it a wholesome treat.
How to Store and Preserve Italian Easter Cookies
One of the advantages of Uncinetti is their ability to stay fresh for several days. To keep them at their best:
- Room Temperature Storage: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will last for up to a week.
- Freezing the Dough: The cookie dough can be made in advance and frozen for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
- Glaze Just Before Serving: If making these cookies in advance, it is best to apply the glaze on the day of serving to prevent it from becoming too soft or sticky.
Tips for the Best Italian Easter Cookies
To achieve perfect Uncinetti every time, follow these expert tips:
- Do Not Overwork the Dough: Knead just until smooth to avoid dense cookies.
- Use Fresh Lemon Zest: The zest is key to adding a natural citrus aroma to the dough.
- Roll the Dough Evenly: Keeping the ropes of dough uniform in size ensures even baking.
- Glaze While Slightly Warm: Applying the glaze when the cookies are still slightly warm helps it set beautifully.
A Tradition Worth Keeping
Italian Easter Cookies are more than just a seasonal treat; they represent the warmth of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing delicious food. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with different flavors, these cookies bring a taste of Italy to your Easter celebrations.
Making Uncinetti is not just about baking—it’s about creating memories with loved ones, passing down traditions, and savoring simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you enjoy them with coffee in the morning or as a sweet treat after Easter dinner, these cookies will always be a delightful part of the holiday season.