As the holiday season approaches, the aromas of Italy’s festive cuisine begin to waft through the air. From sweet treats like Panettone with Candied Fruits and Torta Caprese Chocolate Almond Cake, to savory dishes like Braised Beef with Polenta and Baked Cod with Olives and Tomatoes, Italian Christmas recipes offer a delicious and authentic way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Italy’s rich holiday traditions, featuring 20 festive and mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From classic desserts like Pandoro Christmas Bread and Struffoli Honey Balls, to savory main courses like Rustic Italian Christmas Pie and Lentil and Sausage Soup, these recipes will satisfy any appetite.
So grab a cup of Spiced Mulled Wine and let’s get started on this merry culinary adventure!
Panettone with Candied Fruits
Panettone is a traditional Italian bread typically served during the holiday season. This recipe adds a delightful twist by incorporating candied fruits, giving it an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup candied citron, diced
– 1/4 cup candied orange peel, diced
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add lukewarm milk and mix until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs, candied fruits, raisins, and vanilla extract.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 2 hours.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough, shape into a round loaf, and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pandoro Christmas Bread
Add a touch of Italian tradition to your holiday season with this sweet and buttery Pandoro bread. This festive loaf is perfect for serving at Christmas gatherings or as a special treat for family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon anise extract (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, egg, and anise extract (if using). Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Struffoli Honey Balls
A traditional Sicilian treat, Struffoli Honey Balls are crispy, sweet, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons anise seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, anise seeds, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add enough water to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Cut into small pieces (about 1 inch) and shape each piece into a ball.
6. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the Struffoli for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Torrone Italian Nougat
Torrone, also known as Italian nougat, is a classic Piedmontese confectionery delight that’s rich in history and flavor. This sweet treat is made with just a few simple ingredients, yet its complexity will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) honey
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) egg whites
– 1/4 cup (60g) almonds, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon orange flower water (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine honey and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.
6. Fold egg whites into the honey-sugar mixture until well combined.
7. Stir in chopped almonds, orange flower water (if using), and salt.
8. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
9. Allow to set at room temperature for about 2 hours or overnight.
10. Once set, cut into desired shapes and serve.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes (including cooling time)
Ricotta-filled Cannoli
Treat your taste buds to the authentic Italian dessert experience by filling crispy cannoli shells with a rich and creamy ricotta mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cannoli shells (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped candied fruit (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. If using, fold in the chopped candied fruit.
3. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture into each cannoli shell.
4. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply fill and serve.
Panforte Sienese Cake
This classic Panforte Sienese cake is a sweet and fragrant dessert originating from Siena, Italy. With its rich flavors of nuts, spices, and candied fruit, this moist and dense cake is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) almonds, finely ground
– 1/2 cup (100g) hazelnuts, finely ground
– 1/4 cup (50g) candied citron, diced
– 1/4 cup (50g) candied orange peel, diced
– 1/4 cup (50g) honey
– 1/4 cup (50g) sweet wine (such as Vin Santo)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, almonds, hazelnuts, candied citron, and candied orange peel.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, sweet wine, eggs, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Zaletti Cornmeal Cookies
These sweet and crunchy cookies are a staple of Italian cuisine, made with the humble ingredient of cornmeal. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rounds, squares, or strips).
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Biscotti di Natale
Celebrate the festive season with these crunchy, almond-flavored biscuits that are a classic Italian treat during Christmas time. Biscotti di Natale are perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup almonds, finely chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon anise liqueur (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add chopped almonds, vanilla extract, egg, and anise liqueur (if using). Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a log, about 10 inches long.
5. Place logs on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
8. Slice into 1/2-inch thick slices. Serve dusted with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Torta Caprese Chocolate Almond Cake
This rich and moist Italian-inspired cake combines the best of chocolate, almonds, and creamy mascarpone cheese. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) whole almonds, toasted and chopped
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 8 ounces (225g) best-quality dark chocolate chips or chopped bar
– 1/4 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
– Mascarpone cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add butter and vanilla; whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, then stir in almonds and chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pizzelle Anise Cookies
Experience the classic Italian tradition of Pizzelle cookies, infused with the warm aroma and flavor of anise.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup baking powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon anise extract
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add anise extract to the wet ingredients and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Mostaccioli Christmas Cookies
These festive Mostaccioli cookies are a classic Italian treat perfect for the holiday season. With their soft, chewy texture and vibrant red and green colors, they’re sure to be a hit at any Christmas gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Red and green food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into two portions. Color one portion red (if desired) and the other green (if desired).
6. Roll out each portion of dough between wax paper or parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into shapes or use a cookie cutter.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm Up with Spiced Mulled Wine
As the temperatures drop, a warm and spicy cup of mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up by the fireplace. This classic recipe combines the richness of red wine with the warmth of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of full-bodied red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, sliced orange, cloves, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and cardamom.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired level of spiciness.
4. Stir in the brown sugar and lemon slices.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional orange slices and a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rustic Italian Christmas Pie
This sweet and savory pie is a traditional Italian holiday treat that combines the flavors of figs, Parmesan cheese, and hazelnuts. A perfect dessert for your Christmas gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fig jam
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh hazelnuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a small bowl, mix together fig jam, heavy cream, and granulated sugar.
4. Arrange hazelnuts on the bottom of the pie crust.
5. Pour the fig mixture over the nuts.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the fig mixture.
7. Fold the edges of the pie crust up to form a rustic border.
8. Brush the egg wash over the crust to give it a golden brown color.
9. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lentil and Sausage Soup
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of sausage and lentils with aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With minimal prep time and a simmering cooking time, this recipe is ideal for a busy weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tortellini in Brodo
This traditional Italian recipe is a comforting and flavorful way to enjoy cheese-filled tortellini. Served in a light chicken broth, this dish is perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a large pot.
2. Add the olive oil, chopped onion, salt, and pepper to the pot. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Carefully add the tortellini to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Chestnuts with Rosemary
Roasted Chestnuts with Rosemary Recipe
Summary:
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the natural sweetness of chestnuts while infusing them with a fragrant rosemary aroma. Perfect as a side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or dried chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. If using dried chestnuts, soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse.
3. In a bowl, toss chestnuts with olive oil, rosemary, and salt until evenly coated.
4. Spread the chestnut mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until chestnuts are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Cod with Olives and Tomatoes
Baked Cod with Olives and Tomatoes: A Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious!
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together sliced olives, diced tomato, minced garlic, and olive oil.
5. Spoon the olive-tomato mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
6. Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm with your choice of side dishes.
Braised Beef with Polenta
This rich and comforting dish is perfect for a chilly winter evening. Tender beef short ribs are slow-cooked in a flavorful broth, served atop creamy polenta.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef short ribs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups polenta
– 4 cups water
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season beef with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef on all sides, then remove from pot.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return beef to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
8. Cook polenta according to package instructions.
9. Serve braised beef over creamy polenta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Stuffed Artichokes with Breadcrumbs
A classic Mediterranean dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe fills artichoke hearts with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the top inch of each artichoke and remove the fuzzy choke.
3. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each artichoke heart with the breadcrumb mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place the stuffed artichokes in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
Panna Cotta with Berry Compote Recipe
A creamy panna cotta topped with a sweet and tangy berry compote makes for a delightful dessert perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the Panna Cotta:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Berry Compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
5. For the berry compote, combine berries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the berries have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
6. Serve chilled panna cotta topped with warm berry compote.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these delicious Italian Christmas recipes! From sweet treats like Panettone with Candied Fruits and Torta Caprese Chocolate Almond Cake, to savory dishes like Braised Beef with Polenta and Baked Cod with Olives and Tomatoes, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at traditional Italian cookies like Zaletti Cornmeal Cookies and Mostaccioli Christmas Cookies, or indulge in festive drinks like Spiced Mulled Wine. And don’t forget about the classic desserts, such as Panna Cotta with Berry Compote and Ricotta-filled Cannoli. Buon Natale!
