Venetian Christmas Cookies

Step into the warmth and charm of the holiday season with these delightful Venetian Christmas Cookies. Recreating the festive atmosphere of Venice, these cookies boast a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making them a wonderful addition to your holiday dessert table or a thoughtful homemade gift for loved ones. Let’s dive into the magical world of Venetian flavors with this simple and delicious recipe.

**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– Zest of one orange
– 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Add the almond extract and orange zest to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.

3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

4. Fold in the dried cranberries and pistachios, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

5. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the cookie rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.

8. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once cooled, dust the Venetian Christmas Cookies with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

These Venetian Christmas Cookies capture the essence of the season with their delicate texture and vibrant flavors. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire or shared with friends during a cozy gathering, these cookies are sure to spread holiday cheer. Embrace the spirit of Venetian tradition in your kitchen this season and treat yourself to a taste of Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Enjoy the magic of homemade holiday baking with these delightful treats!