Anginetti, Italian Lemon Knot Cookies

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### **How to Make Italian Lemon Knot Cookies**

#### **1. Prepare the Dough**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until a soft dough forms.

#### **2. Shape the Cookies**
1. Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a 6-inch rope.
2. Gently tie the rope into a loose knot and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Repeat with the remaining dough, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.

#### **3. Bake the Cookies**
1. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden on the bottom.
2. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

#### **4. Make the Lemon Glaze**
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.

#### **5. Glaze and Garnish**
1. Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off.
2. Place the glazed cookies back on the wire rack and sprinkle with colorful nonpareils or sugar pearls, if desired.

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### **Tips for Perfect Anginetti**
– **Don’t Overwork the Dough**: Handle the dough gently to ensure tender cookies.
– **Customize the Flavor**: Swap lemon zest for orange or almond extract for a unique twist.
– **Let the Glaze Set**: Allow the glaze to fully dry before storing the cookies to avoid sticking.

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### **A Cookie for Every Occasion**
Anginetti are versatile enough to serve as a sweet ending to a meal, a thoughtful gift, or a showstopper on your holiday cookie tray. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant lemon flavor make them irresistible.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of Italy, Anginetti will transport you to a sunny café in the heart of Rome. Bake a batch today and savor the magic of these timeless Italian Lemon Knot Cookies!