Description
Pizzicati, or Italian Pinch Cookies, are a delicate and buttery shortbread-style cookie with a fruity jam filling. Their signature “pinched” shape makes them as pretty as they are delicious. Perfect for holidays, tea time, or a simple everyday treat.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2–3 tablespoons (30-45ml) milk (as needed)
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup (120g) fruit jam or preserves (e.g., apricot, raspberry, or cherry)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and creamy. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough begins to come together. Add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a soft, pliable consistency.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Shape the Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Use a 2.5-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles. Place a small dollop (about 1/2 teaspoon) of jam in the center of each circle.
- Pinch two opposite sides of the circle together, creating the signature “pinch” shape around the jam filling. Press gently to seal.
Bake the Cookies:
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use a thick jam or preserves to prevent it from spreading too much during baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- For added flair, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.