Italian Leaf Cookies (With Pistachio)

I have loved Italian Leaf Cookies since I was a kid. I adore their leaf shape and the taste of mint and chocolate that these cookies contain.

This week, I was looking for some cool cookies to enjoy and then I remembered the Italian Leaf Cookies I loved in the ’90s. I thought, why not whip up these cookies in my kitchen?

I didn’t make Italian Leaf Cookies with mint, this time I decided to use pistachios since they’re a favorite flavor in my family. I made these cookies with chocolate and pistachio, and let me tell you, the taste was delicious, sweet, and special. Besides their beautiful leaf shapes, the dessert looked stunning on my dessert table.

What are Italian Leaf Cookies?

Italian Leaf Cookies are beautiful Italian cookies known for their charming leaf shape and two-layer design. These cookies are made with a chocolate layer and another flavor from your choice, creating a stunning color, shape, and flavor in one dessert. I have loved these cookies since I was a little kid, Their fancy appearance makes them a must-have dessert on my holiday table, and also the taste is delicious since I made them with my favorite flavor pistachio and chocolate of course.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

How to Make Italian Leaf Cookies?

Step 1:

Start by mixing butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar in a large bowl until everything is smooth and creamy. Then, add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and mix well. add flour and some salt until a soft dough forms.

Step 2:

Split the dough into two equal parts. In one part, mix in the finely chopped pistachios. In the other part, stir in the cocoa powder until the dough is colored brown.

Step 3:

Now, Roll out each part of the dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a leaf-shaped cookie cutter to cut out leaf shapes from each dough. place a green leaf on top of a brown leaf, gently pressing them together so they stick.

Step 4:

Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Put the baking sheet in the fridge and let the cookies chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 5:

After that, Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, Once baked, Enjoy them with your favorite drink.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Cookie cutters (leaf-shaped)
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Helpful Tips!

• Make sure to chill both the pistachio and chocolate dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Don’t forget to Roll the dough to an even thickness of about 1/8 inch. This ensures that the cookies will look neat.
• Use a sharp leaf-shaped cookie cutter and press down firmly to get clean, defined shapes.
• Try your best to press the pistachio leaf on top of the chocolate leaf and Make sure the edges are well-aligned so they stick together during baking.

What to Serve with Italian Leaf Cookies?

I love Italian Leaf Cookies with Citrus Tart, as the combination of pistachio and citrus flavors never disappoints me especially if I enjoy it with a Banana Foster Martini that adds the creamy flavors needed to make the full meal satisfying. I also enjoy them alongside a Lemon Meringue Pie, as the taste of the lemon filling pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies. Also, you can have them with a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream or any ice cream flavor you like. just to know that the cookies are so good and can be pairs for perfectly with any drink or any other dessert you can imagine.

FAQ

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

No, It’s best to use unsalted butter for this recipe.

What if I don’t have a leaf-shaped cookie cutter?

You can use any shape you like, or even cut the cookies freehand, but you will miss that beautiful shape of leaf.

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, Almond flour can be used, but it will change the texture and flavor of the cookies.

How do I make sure my cookies don’t spread too much?

Chilling the dough will help.

Can I add other flavors to the cookie dough?

Yes, you can add any flavors you like, For me pistachios are so good.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for the golden edges. The center might still be soft, which is normal.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate for later use.

How do I make the cookies look shiny?

Brush the cookies with a little melted butter before baking.

Conclusion

Italian Leaf Cookies not only look so gorgeous on your table but also deliciously satisfying. With their unique green and black layers, the cookies are so perfect for a cozy evening with the family. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more creative recipes.