Italian butter cookies, or biscotti al burro, are beloved treats known for their delicate, buttery texture and subtle sweetness.
These cookies are simple yet elegant, making them perfect for tea time, coffee breaks, or festive gatherings.
They can be flavored with almonds, lemon zest, chocolate, or vanilla, reflecting the versatility of Italian baking traditions.
Whether you enjoy them soft and melt-in-your-mouth or crisp and lightly golden, butter cookies are a timeless Italian favorite.
In this article, we present 15 Italian butter cookie recipes that range from classic to creatively flavored variations.
These recipes combine traditional ingredients, like butter and sugar, with unique touches to elevate your cookie experience.
15 Delicious Italian Butter Cookie Recipes You Must Try
These 15 Italian butter cookie recipes showcase the richness, simplicity, and versatility of Italian baking.
From classic buttery flavors to almond, chocolate, and citrus variations, there is a recipe for every taste.
Making these cookies at home allows you to enjoy authentic Italian flavors with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
They are perfect for gifting, celebrations, or everyday indulgence.
With these recipes, you can create buttery, aromatic, and delightful cookies that honor Italian tradition.
Classic Italian Butter Cookies
These classic Italian butter cookies are tender, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
They combine simple ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and flour for a timeless cookie recipe.
A touch of vanilla enhances the natural sweetness and creates a fragrant aroma.
These cookies are perfect for tea time, coffee breaks, or gifting during holidays.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the butter mixture.
- Roll dough into small balls and place on baking sheet.
- Flatten slightly and bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
These classic Italian butter cookies are buttery, tender, and aromatic.
They are perfect for everyday indulgence or festive occasions.
Every bite delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle vanilla flavor.
They provide a simple, timeless, and satisfying cookie experience.
Almond Italian Butter Cookies
These almond Italian butter cookies are nutty, fragrant, and delightfully crisp.
Ground almonds are added to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
A touch of almond extract enhances the natural nuttiness and complements the buttery base.
These cookies are ideal for gifting, serving with coffee, or enjoying as a sweet snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add eggs and almond extract and beat well.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine dry ingredients with wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll dough into balls and place on baking sheet.
- Flatten slightly and bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
These almond Italian butter cookies are crisp, fragrant, and nutty.
They are perfect for tea time or gifting during special occasions.
Every bite delivers buttery richness with subtle almond flavor.
They provide a satisfying, flavorful, and elegant Italian cookie experience.
Lemon Zest Italian Butter Cookies
These lemon zest Italian butter cookies are bright, aromatic, and lightly sweet.
Fresh lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the rich butter base.
They are tender with a delicate crumb, making them perfect for spring and summer treats.
These cookies pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or a light dessert plate.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar together until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and lemon zest until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll dough into small balls and place on baking sheet.
- Flatten slightly and bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
These lemon zest Italian butter cookies are bright, tender, and aromatic.
They are perfect for light, refreshing treats or afternoon tea.
Every bite delivers buttery richness with a subtle citrusy zing.
They provide a delightful, flavorful, and elegant Italian cookie experience.
Chocolate-Dipped Italian Butter Cookies
These chocolate-dipped Italian butter cookies are rich, buttery, and decadent.
Classic butter cookies are baked to perfection and then dipped in melted dark chocolate.
The combination of buttery dough and chocolate coating creates a luxurious flavor experience.
These cookies are perfect for holidays, gifting, or satisfying chocolate cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll dough into small balls, place on baking sheet, and flatten slightly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool, then dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate.
These chocolate-dipped Italian butter cookies are rich, buttery, and indulgent.
They are perfect for festive occasions or chocolate lovers.
Every bite delivers a melt-in-your-mouth cookie with a luxurious chocolate finish.
They provide a decadent and satisfying Italian-inspired dessert experience
Vanilla Bean Italian Butter Cookies
These vanilla bean Italian butter cookies are fragrant, tender, and full of rich flavor.
Using real vanilla bean seeds enhances the aroma and sweetness of the cookies.
They have a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for enjoying with tea or coffee.
These cookies are ideal for gifting, special occasions, or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla bean seeds until combined.
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll dough into balls, flatten slightly, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
These vanilla bean Italian butter cookies are tender, fragrant, and flavorful.
They are perfect for tea time, coffee breaks, or gifting.
Every bite delivers buttery richness with aromatic vanilla.
They provide a simple, elegant, and satisfying Italian cookie experience.
Hazelnut Italian Butter Cookies
These hazelnut Italian butter cookies are nutty, crisp, and buttery.
They combine finely ground hazelnuts with classic butter cookie dough for a rich flavor.
A sprinkle of sugar on top before baking adds a delicate sweetness and light crunch.
These cookies are perfect for tea time, gifting, or enjoying with coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely ground hazelnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, ground hazelnuts, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll dough into balls, flatten slightly, and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
These hazelnut Italian butter cookies are buttery, nutty, and crisp.
They are perfect for coffee breaks, tea time, or festive gifting.
Every bite delivers buttery richness with a subtle nutty flavor.
They provide a delightful, Italian-inspired cookie experience.
Orange Zest Italian Butter Cookies
These orange zest Italian butter cookies are bright, fragrant, and slightly sweet.
Fresh orange zest adds a refreshing citrus aroma that complements the buttery base.
They are tender with a delicate crumb, making them perfect for spring or holiday treats.
These cookies pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or as a light dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and orange zest until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll into small balls, flatten slightly, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
These orange zest Italian butter cookies are fragrant, buttery, and delicate.
They are perfect for afternoon tea, light dessert, or gifting.
Every bite delivers buttery richness with a hint of citrus.
They provide a refreshing, Italian-inspired cookie experience.
Chocolate Chip Italian Butter Cookies
These chocolate chip Italian butter cookies are rich, buttery, and slightly sweet.
Mini chocolate chips are folded into the dough for a perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
They have a tender crumb and golden edges that make them irresistible.
These cookies are perfect for family gatherings, lunchboxes, or cozy snacks.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet mixture, then fold in chocolate chips.
- Roll dough into small balls and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
These chocolate chip Italian butter cookies are tender, buttery, and chocolatey.
They are perfect for family treats, afternoon snacks, or dessert.
Every bite delivers buttery richness with sweet chocolate pockets.
They provide a classic, Italian-inspired cookie experience.
Pistachio Italian Butter Cookies
These pistachio Italian butter cookies are nutty, buttery, and aromatic.
Chopped pistachios are mixed into the dough, giving a pleasant crunch and subtle flavor.
A light sprinkle of sugar enhances the sweetness while maintaining a delicate texture.
These cookies are ideal for festive occasions, tea time, or gifting.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and pistachios.
- Combine dry ingredients with wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll dough into balls, flatten slightly, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
These pistachio Italian butter cookies are buttery, nutty, and crisp.
They are perfect for festive occasions, tea time, or light snacks.
Every bite delivers rich butter flavor with crunchy pistachios.
They provide an elegant, Italian-inspired cookie experience.
Coffee-Infused Italian Butter Cookies
These coffee-infused Italian butter cookies are aromatic, buttery, and lightly sweet.
Instant coffee or espresso powder is incorporated into the dough for a rich, coffee flavor.
They are tender with a delicate crumb and pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.
These cookies are perfect for breakfast treats, afternoon snacks, or gifting to coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee or espresso powder
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, vanilla extract, and instant coffee until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll into small balls, flatten slightly, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
These coffee-infused Italian butter cookies are tender, aromatic, and buttery.
They are perfect for breakfast, afternoon treats, or gifting to coffee enthusiasts.
Every bite delivers rich coffee flavor balanced with buttery sweetness.
They provide a unique and elegant Italian-inspired cookie experience.
Coconut Italian Butter Cookies
These coconut Italian butter cookies are tender, buttery, and lightly tropical.
Shredded coconut is folded into the dough, adding texture and a subtle sweetness.
A hint of vanilla complements the coconut and enhances the buttery base.
These cookies are perfect for tea time, gifting, or light dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll dough into small balls, flatten slightly, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
These coconut Italian butter cookies are tender, aromatic, and flavorful.
They are perfect for tea time, gifting, or a light dessert.
Every bite delivers buttery richness with a subtle coconut taste.
They provide a tropical, Italian-inspired cookie experience.
Orange and Almond Italian Butter Cookies
These orange and almond Italian butter cookies are nutty, citrusy, and buttery.
Ground almonds and orange zest are combined into the dough for a sophisticated flavor.
They have a delicate crumb and golden edges, perfect for afternoon tea or special occasions.
These cookies pair beautifully with coffee or light dessert plates.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll into balls, flatten slightly, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
These orange and almond Italian butter cookies are fragrant, nutty, and tender.
They are perfect for tea, coffee, or gifting during festive occasions.
Every bite delivers buttery richness with subtle orange and almond flavor.
They provide a sophisticated and Italian-inspired cookie experience.
Cinnamon Italian Butter Cookies
These cinnamon Italian butter cookies are warm, aromatic, and perfectly buttery.
Ground cinnamon is added to the dough for a comforting, spiced flavor.
They are tender with a delicate texture, making them ideal for breakfast, tea, or dessert.
These cookies pair beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or warm milk.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll into small balls, flatten slightly, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
These cinnamon Italian butter cookies are tender, buttery, and aromatic.
They are perfect for cozy mornings, tea time, or dessert.
Every bite delivers warm cinnamon flavor balanced with rich butter.
They provide a comforting, Italian-inspired cookie experience.
Pistachio and White Chocolate Italian Butter Cookies
These pistachio and white chocolate Italian butter cookies are rich, nutty, and decadent.
Chopped pistachios and white chocolate chunks are folded into tender butter cookie dough.
The combination creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
These cookies are perfect for festive occasions, gifting, or special treats.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chunks
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, pistachios, and white chocolate chunks.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll into small balls, flatten slightly, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
These pistachio and white chocolate Italian butter cookies are nutty, buttery, and rich.
They are perfect for gifting or indulging during holidays.
Every bite delivers a delightful crunch with sweet chocolate and buttery dough.
They provide a decadent, Italian-inspired cookie experience.
Coffee and Hazelnut Italian Butter Cookies
These coffee and hazelnut Italian butter cookies are aromatic, nutty, and buttery.
Instant coffee and chopped hazelnuts are added to the dough for a sophisticated flavor.
They are tender with a delicate crumb and slightly crisp edges.
These cookies are perfect for coffee breaks, afternoon snacks, or gifting to coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee or espresso powder
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, vanilla extract, and instant coffee until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and hazelnuts.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet mixture to form dough.
- Roll into balls, flatten slightly, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
These coffee and hazelnut Italian butter cookies are aromatic, nutty, and tender.
They are perfect for coffee breaks, gifting, or afternoon indulgence.
Every bite delivers rich coffee flavor balanced with buttery dough and crunchy hazelnuts.
They provide a sophisticated, Italian-inspired cookie experience.
