Italian Christmas Cookies - soft cookie balls drenched in an almond glaze and sprinkled with colored jimmies!

Italian Christmas Cookies - soft cookie balls drenched in an almond glaze and sprinkled with colored jimmies! Big batch recipe perfect for holiday cookie trays and gift giving!

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 eggs
• 5 cups all purpose flour
• 2 cups confectioner's sugar
• 2 tablespoons plus 1-1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup shortening
• 3 teaspoons almond extract
• 1-1/2 teaspoons lemon extract
• Glaze
• 3-3/4 cups confectioner's sugar
• ½ cup warm milk
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• colored sprinkles

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Using a heavy-duty mixer, beat eggs on high speed until light and foamy, about 5 minutes; set aside in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, confectioners' sugar and baking powder; on low speed, gradually beat in shortening and extracts until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Gradually add beaten eggs (dough will be stiff).Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 for 12-14 minutes (tops of the cookies will not brown, but bottoms should brown slightly).Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the confectioner's sugar, milk and extracts until smooth. As soon as cookies are removed from the oven, quickly dip two or three at a time into glaze. Remove with a slotted spoon or tongs. Place on wire racks to drain. Immediately top with sprinkles. Let dry for 24 hours before storing in airtight containers.

Credit: www.grumpyshoneybunch.com