20 Delicious Italian Christmas Recipes Traditional

There’s something truly magical about Italian Christmas traditions, especially when it comes to the food. From the rich, savory flavors of homemade pasta to the sweet, spiced delights of holiday desserts, Italian cuisine offers a feast for the senses. Whether you’re looking to recreate Nonna’s classic recipes or add a new dish to your holiday table, our roundup of 20 Delicious Italian Christmas Recipes is sure to inspire your festive cooking. Let’s dive in!

Panettone Italian Christmas Bread

Nothing says Christmas like the sweet, citrusy aroma of homemade Panettone filling your kitchen. This Italian holiday bread is a festive treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup candied citrus peel

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, eggs, butter, vanilla, and orange zest. Knead until smooth.
3. Fold in raisins and candied citrus peel. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 2 hours, or until doubled.
4. Punch down dough and transfer to a greased Panettone mold or tall, round baking pan. Let rise for another hour.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden and a skewer comes out clean.

The secret to this Panettone’s light, airy texture is the double rise, which gives it that signature tall dome and tender crumb.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, brush the baked Panettone with a simple syrup glaze and sprinkle with pearl sugar before serving.

Struffoli Honey Balls

These Struffoli Honey Balls are a delightful Italian treat, perfect for bringing a touch of sweetness to your holiday table or any special occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup colorful sprinkles (for decoration)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Roll the dough into thin ropes, about 1/2 inch in diameter, then cut into small pieces, roughly 1/2 inch long.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry the dough pieces in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a small saucepan, warm the honey and unsalted butter over low heat until combined. Pour over the fried dough pieces, tossing gently to coat.
6. Transfer the honey-coated balls to a serving plate, shaping them into a mound or wreath. Decorate with colorful sprinkles while still sticky.

The magic of Struffoli lies in their bite-sized perfection, each piece a crispy, honey-drenched delight that’s impossible to resist. The sprinkles add a festive touch, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough before frying.

Torrone Italian Nougat

Bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen with this homemade Torrone, a classic Italian nougat that’s both chewy and crunchy, packed with nuts and enveloped in sweet honey.

Ingredients

• 2 cups honey
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 cups whole almonds, toasted
• 1 cup pistachios, shelled and toasted
• Rice paper, for lining

Instructions

1. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with rice paper, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.
2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups honey and 3 cups granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil without stirring until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. While the sugar mixture boils, beat 3 large egg whites with 1/4 tsp salt until stiff peaks form.
4. Once the sugar mixture reaches 300°F, slowly pour it into the egg whites while continuously beating at high speed. Add 1/2 tsp vanilla extract and continue to beat until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
5. Fold in 2 cups whole almonds and 1 cup pistachios until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing down with a spatula to even out the top. Cover with another sheet of rice paper and press lightly.
7. Allow the Torrone to cool at room temperature for at least 12 hours before cutting into squares or bars.

The magic of this Torrone lies in its perfect balance of textures—crispy nuts suspended in a soft, chewy nougat, all held together with the deep flavor of honey.

Tip: For a cleaner cut, use a sharp knife lightly greased with oil or warm the knife under hot water before slicing.

Pandoro Christmas Cake

Bring a touch of Italian holiday magic to your table with this Pandoro Christmas Cake, a golden, star-shaped delight that’s as festive as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 Pandoro cake (about 2 lbs)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Place the Pandoro cake on a serving plate, ensuring its star shape is prominent.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese until smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Carefully pour the cream mixture over the top of the Pandoro, allowing it to drizzle down the sides naturally.
4. Dust the top lightly with 1 tbsp cocoa powder for a festive finish.
5. Let the cake sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

This Pandoro Christmas Cake stands out with its effortless elegance and the delightful contrast between the creamy topping and the airy, buttery cake beneath.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, adorn the cake with edible gold dust or fresh berries right before serving.

Ricotta and Spinach Cannelloni

Dive into the comforting layers of our Ricotta and Spinach Cannelloni, a dish that brings the rustic charm of Italian cuisine right to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 12 cannelloni tubes
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared dish. Arrange the filled cannelloni in a single layer over the sauce.
5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cannelloni and sprinkle with mozzarella.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The nutmeg in the filling adds a subtle warmth that beautifully complements the creamy ricotta and earthy spinach, making every bite a delight.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the cannelloni for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Christmas Eve Seafood Pasta

Dive into the festive spirit with this Christmas Eve Seafood Pasta, a luxurious yet straightforward dish that brings the ocean’s bounty to your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb scallops
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and the scallops are golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmering for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Return the cooked seafood and linguine to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute until everything is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy, garlicky sauce that perfectly complements the tender seafood, making it a festive favorite that’s sure to impress.

Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, serve with a sprinkle of lemon zest on top.

Lentil and Sausage Soup

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Lentil and Sausage Soup, a comforting bowl that’s packed with flavor and ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add lentils, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in spinach and lemon juice. Cook for 2 minutes until spinach wilts.

The lemon juice at the end brightens the rich flavors, making this soup a standout. Tip: For extra depth, try browning the sausage in batches to get more caramelization.

Roasted Chestnuts

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the aroma of roasted chestnuts filling your kitchen, a simple pleasure that brings warmth to any gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh chestnuts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. While the oven heats, use a sharp knife to score an ‘X’ on the flat side of each chestnut to prevent them from bursting.
2. Toss the scored chestnuts with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread the chestnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the shells peel back at the ‘X’ and the insides are tender.
4. Remove from the oven and let them cool just enough to handle. Peel the shells and enjoy the sweet, nutty flavor while they’re still warm.

The key to perfect roasted chestnuts lies in the scoring technique, which not only prevents messes but also makes peeling a breeze, revealing the tender goodness inside.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or rosemary to the olive oil before tossing with the chestnuts.

Fried Cod Italian Style

Bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen with this crispy Fried Cod Italian Style, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cod fillets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Cut into serving-sized pieces if necessary.
2. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each cod piece in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry cod in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and savory Parmesan creates a texture and flavor that’s irresistibly good, making this dish a standout for any seafood lover.

Tip: For an extra crispy coating, let the breaded cod sit on a wire rack for 10 minutes before frying.

Stuffed Calamari

Dive into the flavors of the sea with these tender stuffed calamari, a dish that’s as impressive to serve as it is simple to make.

Ingredients

• 8 large calamari tubes, cleaned
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, egg, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Gently stuff each calamari tube with the breadcrumb mixture, being careful not to overfill. Secure the open end with a toothpick if necessary.
4. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed calamari for 2 minutes on each side until lightly golden.
5. Transfer the calamari to the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes, until the filling is cooked through and the calamari is tender.
6. Serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and tender calamari creates a delightful contrast in textures, making this dish a standout at any dinner table.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.

Baked Lasagna with Meat Sauce

Nothing says comfort like a hearty baked lasagna, layered with rich meat sauce and melted cheese. This classic dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz jar marinara sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 12 lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in marinara sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried basil, and 1 tsp dried oregano. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese and egg until well combined.
4. Spread 1 cup meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer 4 lasagna noodles, half the ricotta mixture, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1/3 of remaining meat sauce. Repeat layers, ending with noodles, sauce, and a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. The layers set beautifully, making each slice a perfect showcase of your efforts.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Christmas Capon with Potatoes

Nothing says Christmas like a beautifully roasted capon, and when paired with golden potatoes, it’s a feast for the senses. Here’s how to make this holiday centerpiece that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 (6 to 7-pound) capon, giblets removed
• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, quartered

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pat the capon dry with paper towels and place it breast-side up in a large roasting pan.
2. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, rosemary, thyme, and garlic until evenly coated. Arrange the potatoes around the capon in the pan.
3. Rub the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil all over the capon, then season with the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stuff the cavity with the lemon quarters.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thigh and the potatoes are tender and golden.
5. Let the capon rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted potatoes.

The capon’s juicy meat and the potatoes’ crispy edges, infused with herbs and garlic, make this dish a holiday standout. The lemon adds a bright note that cuts through the richness.

Tip: For extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 425°F for the last 10 minutes of roasting.

Sweet Ravioli with Ricotta

Dive into the delightful world of dessert pasta with these Sweet Ravioli with Ricotta, a perfect blend of creamy filling and tender pasta that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 package (12 oz) wonton wrappers
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Lay out wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place 1 teaspoon of the ricotta mixture in the center of each wrapper.
3. Brush the edges of the wrappers with beaten egg, then fold over to form triangles, pressing edges to seal.
4. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ravioli in batches, cooking for 2 minutes per side until golden.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.

These Sweet Ravioli with Ricotta stand out with their delicate balance of sweet and tangy flavors, encased in a crispy, golden wrapper.

Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Chocolate Salami

Chocolate Salami is a no-bake, sliceable treat that looks like salami but is entirely sweet, combining the richness of chocolate with the crunch of cookies—perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a decadent snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or hazelnuts work well)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Melt the 1 cup dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Fold the melted chocolate into the butter mixture, then gently stir in the crushed digestive biscuits and 1/2 cup chopped nuts until everything is evenly coated.
4. Lay out a large piece of parchment paper and spoon the mixture onto it. Shape into a log, about 2 inches in diameter, and roll tightly in the parchment, twisting the ends to secure. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
5. Unwrap the log and dust with powdered sugar before slicing into rounds. The powdered sugar gives it that signature salami look!

The magic of Chocolate Salami lies in its playful presentation and the delightful contrast between the creamy chocolate and the crunchy bits of biscuit and nuts. It’s a conversation starter that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Tip: For an extra touch, tie the ends of the parchment with kitchen twine before chilling to create a more authentic salami shape.

Pizzelle Italian Christmas Cookies

Nothing says Christmas like the crisp, buttery taste of Pizzelle, the traditional Italian waffle cookies that are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your pizzelle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, beat the 3 large eggs and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in the 1/2 cup melted butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually mix in the 1 3/4 cups flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and pinch of salt to form a smooth batter.
5. Drop a tablespoon of batter onto each pattern of the preheated pizzelle iron and close the lid.
6. Cook for about 30-45 seconds or until the cookies are golden brown.
7. Carefully remove the cookies and place them on a wire rack to cool.

These Pizzelle cookies stand out with their delicate, lace-like texture and rich vanilla flavor, making them a festive treat that’s sure to impress.

Tip: For a twist, add a teaspoon of anise extract or lemon zest to the batter for a different flavor profile.

Zeppole di Natale Christmas Donuts

These Zeppole di Natale Christmas Donuts are a festive treat that brings a little Italian holiday magic to your kitchen, with a light, airy texture and a dusting of powdered sugar that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1 quart vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Add 1 cup all-purpose flour all at once, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 1 minute.
3. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, until the dough is smooth and shiny.
4. Heat 1 quart vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
5. Fry for about 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and puffed. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. While still warm, dust the zeppole with 1/2 cup powdered sugar.

What makes these donuts special is their choux pastry base, which puffs up dramatically in the hot oil, creating a hollow center perfect for filling with your favorite jam or custard.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, serve these zeppole with a side of warm chocolate sauce for dipping.

Spiced Mulled Wine

Warm up your winter evenings with this aromatic Spiced Mulled Wine, a festive blend that fills your home with the comforting scents of cinnamon and citrus.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 5 whole cloves
• 3 star anise pods
• 1/2 tsp whole allspice berries
• 1/4 cup brandy (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, orange slices, honey, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and allspice berries.
2. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil. Simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the brandy, if using.
4. Strain the mulled wine into mugs, discarding the solids, and serve warm.

The beauty of this Spiced Mulled Wine lies in its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, with the brandy adding a subtle warmth that elevates the entire experience.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each mug with a fresh cinnamon stick or a slice of orange before serving.

Biscotti di Natale Christmas Biscuits

Nothing says Christmas like a batch of homemade Biscotti di Natale, with their crisp texture and festive spices. Perfect for dunking in coffee or gifting to loved ones, these Italian Christmas biscuits are a holiday must-have.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup almonds, roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves.
3. Beat in 3 large eggs and 1 tsp vanilla extract until a dough forms, then fold in 1 cup roughly chopped almonds.
4. Divide the dough in half and shape each into a log about 12 inches long. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
5. Bake for 25 minutes until firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
6. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F. Slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange cut-side down on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Cool completely on a wire rack.

The double baking gives these biscotti their signature crunch, while the blend of warm spices fills your kitchen with the scent of the holidays.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, dip one end of the cooled biscotti in melted dark chocolate and let set before serving.

Torta di Ricotta Cheesecake

Indulge in the creamy delight of Torta di Ricotta Cheesecake, a lighter twist on the classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a large bowl, beat ricotta and cream cheese until smooth. Add 3/4 cup sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt, blending until creamy.
3. Pour the filling over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
4. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving.

The lemon zest in this Torta di Ricotta Cheesecake adds a bright, fresh flavor that beautifully complements the rich, creamy texture.

Tip: For an extra smooth filling, pass the ricotta through a fine sieve before mixing.

Frittelle di Mele Apple Fritters

These Frittelle di Mele Apple Fritters are a delightful twist on the classic, offering a crispy exterior with a soft, apple-filled center that’s perfect for a cozy morning treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon.
2. In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs, then stir in 3/4 cup whole milk and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F. Drop tablespoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Dust the warm fritters with powdered sugar before serving.

The magic of these fritters lies in the contrast between the crunchy outside and the tender, apple-packed inside, making each bite a delightful surprise.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the batter or serving with a side of caramel sauce for dipping.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 Delicious Italian Christmas Recipes brings warmth and flavor to your holiday table. Each dish is a celebration of tradition, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment about your experience, and share the joy by pinning this article on Pinterest. Buon Natale and happy cooking!