Name: Italian Peach Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 2 large eggs; ¾ cup (150g) sugar; ½ cup (120ml) milk; ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted; ½ cup peach marmalade (or your favorite filling); Peach and red food coloring; Granulated sugar (for rolling); Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and cake-like texture – These cookies are tender and melt in your mouth.
Customizable filling – Use peach marmalade, chocolate cream, or your favorite jam.
Elegant presentation – They can be decorated to look like real peaches for a beautiful dessert table centerpiece.
Perfect for celebrations – Ideal for weddings, holidays, and family gatherings.
Easy to make ahead – These cookies taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies:

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies.
Baking powder – Helps them rise and stay soft.
Eggs – Adds moisture and richness.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies just enough.
Milk – Keeps the cookies tender and soft.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and a buttery flavor.

For the Filling:

Peach marmalade (or your favorite cream filling) – Brings a fruity sweetness and enhances the flavor.

Directions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the milk and melted butter, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.

2. Shape and Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll the dough into small, even-sized balls and place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool completely before assembling.

3. Assemble the Peach Cookies

Take two cookies and spread a small amount of peach marmalade or cream filling on one half.
Press the other cookie on top to form a sandwich.

4. Optional Decoration

To make them look like real peaches, brush them with a light peach-colored glaze or dust with powdered sugar.
Garnish with mint leaves to mimic peach stems.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 20 sandwich cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Filling: Use Nutella or chocolate ganache instead of marmalade.
Vanilla Cream: Fill with vanilla pastry cream for a rich, custard-like flavor.
Almond Flavor: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for a nutty aroma.
Rum-Soaked Peaches: Brush the cookies with a rum syrup before assembling for a classic Italian touch.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Freeze assembled cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different jam for the filling?

Yes! Apricot, raspberry, or strawberry jam all work beautifully.

2. How do I make the cookies look like real peaches?

Brush them with a mix of peach and red food coloring, then roll in sugar for a realistic effect.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, they actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together.

4. What is the best way to shape the cookies?

Use a small cookie scoop to ensure even-sized balls.

5. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

6. Why are my cookies too dry?

Make sure not to overbake them. They should be just lightly golden.

7. Can I add food coloring to the dough?

Yes, you can add a drop of yellow or peach food coloring for a vibrant look.

8. How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

9. Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes, crushed almonds or walnuts add a nice crunch.

10. Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?

If filled with cream, refrigerate them; if using jam, they can be stored at room temperature.

Conclusion

Italian peach cookies are a delightful and elegant treat with a soft texture and delicious filling. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a sweet treat, they’re sure to impress. Try this recipe and enjoy the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and beauty!