Italian Christmas Cookies

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Colored sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

For the Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a rope about 4-5 inches long. Shape the ropes into knots or twists.
7. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Glaze:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze or drizzle the glaze over the cookies using a spoon.
3. If desired, decorate with colored sprinkles while the glaze is still wet.
4. Allow the glaze to set before serving.