Need a quick and simple recipe for Italian S cookies? These no-butter traditional Italian cookies are ready in under thirty-five minutes and are perfect for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. They also make a tasty addition to any Christmas cookie box.
You can probably find dozens of variations of this simple cookie recipe, but this is one of the best.
Just like these anise cookies, they are lightly sweetened and make delicious Italian breakfast cookies to have with your morning coffee. The truth is that they are great any time of the day, as a morning snack or with afternoon coffee or tea.
These traditional homemade Italian cookies originate from Southern Italy, and true to Italian regional cuisine, every Italian family has its recipe.
I’ve already shared a few recipes for the best Italian cookies, like these Italian knot cookies or these anise biscotti. Today, I will share another favorite of mine…S Cookies!
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Ingredients
- Flour. All-purpose. I’ve also included a whole-wheat version.
- Baking Powder. Just the right amount to provide the perfect rise without any aftertaste.
- Salt. Just a pinch.
- Eggs. Just a couple.
- Sugar. Just a little bit of sweetness.
- Olive oil. That’s right, a no-butter recipe and it still tastes great!
- Vanilla extract. If available, use white vanilla extract. You can also vary with anise or almond extract.
- Lemon zest. Make sure to use organic lemons.
Before baking, we will brush these simple biscuits with an egg wash and a sprinkle of turbinado sugar.
As far as accessories are concerned, a large mixing bowl and a whisk will ensure the dry ingredients are properly combined. You will also need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (or equivalent), a medium-sized cookie scoop, and a pastry brush for the egg wash.
You can make these no-butter cookies in a stand mixer, with a handheld mixer, or with a whisk and a bowl -whatever is more convenient for you.
Shall we begin?
How to make these simple homemade cookies
In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt. Set aside while we start whisking the eggs.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk 2 eggs until light and frothy, about 3-4 minutes. On medium speed, slowly add ½ cup sugar and whisk until slightly thickened (about 3-4 minutes). Add the ⅓ cup of oil, 1 teaspoon of clear vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest. Whisk to combine.
Remove the bowl from the stand mixer and add the flour mixture. Combine with a large mixing spoon. Mix only until combined.
How to create the S-shaped cookie
You are now ready to shape your simple cookie. Scoop out the dough with a medium-sized cookie scoop and drop it on a lightly floured surface. This is approximately 2 tablespoons or 25 grams of dough. The dough will be slightly sticky.
Roll out each of the dough pieces in a 4-5 inch thick log about ½-inch in diameter.
Transfer to a parchment-lined prepared cookie sheet with a spatula and form into an S shape (or whatever shape you like!) by making small indentations.
Watch the video to see exactly how I shape these traditional Italian cookies.
Once all your cookies have been formed, brush the tops with the egg yolk mixture. The sprinkle of sugar is optional.
Bake in a preheated oven (350℉/175°C) for about 15 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown.
Transfer cookies to the wire rack to cool completely before storing.
And there you have it, 24 perfectly shaped S cookies.
Tips
- A light-tasting olive oil will contribute to the best overall flavor; however, feel free to use vegetable or canola oil.
- If you prefer to have a “thicker” looking cookie, make the logs of cookie dough shorter (4 inches) and make smaller, tighter curves; if you prefer to have a thinner-looking S shape, make them longer (5-inch strand).
- This easy recipe can easily be doubled.
- Once the dry ingredients are combined, do not over-mix.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Dust the cookies with cinnamon sugar, green or red sanding sugar before baking, transforming them into Italian Christmas cookies.
- As an alternative, once the cookies have cooled down, a very simple icing sugar glaze can be applied (in this variation, I omit the egg wash step).
- Instead of brushing the cookies with an egg wash, use milk.
- The lemon zest can be replaced with orange zest.
FAQ
Yes, replace the 2 cups (284 grams) of all-purpose flour with 1 cup (142 grams) of all-purpose flour and ¾ cup (120 grams) of whole wheat flour. If the dough feels sticky, add 1-2 tablespoons of whole wheat flour.
Yes! Some families refer to them as Italian anise cookies. Replace the vanilla with anise extract.
Whisk together 1 egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of milk to make an egg wash for cookies.
Yes! Eliminate the egg wash step. When these Italian biscuits come out of the oven and are at room temperature, spread a glaze (combine icing sugar and milk) and top with sprinkles. You now have the perfect cookie for your holiday cookie trays, Italian sprinkle cookies!
Italian cookie recipes
Looking for a simple yet interesting Italian cookie recipe? Try these ricotta cookies, my nonna’s pizzelle, or these festive cranberry biscotti.
Italian Christmas Cookies
Trying to decide which cookies to include in your holiday cookie trays? Here is a list of the best Italian Christmas cookies I’ve compiled just for you!
Recipe inspiration
I have been “hoarding” recipes for many decades, so I have a nice collection of recipe books.
But the recipes I truly value are the ones I obtained as a result of cookie-swapping activities with friends and co-workers.
I was first introduced to this original recipe about 30 years ago by Anna, a colleague.
Anna would shape her cookies in rings with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
I like to shape these cookies in an S shape.
You can also leave the dough in log shapes. This soft and pliable dough can be shaped in various ways, and every Italian family has its unique shape.
Any way you shape these Italian breakfast cookies (also called Sicilian S cookies), they make the perfect accompaniment with your morning coffee, tea or even a tall cool glass of milk, making them the perfect snack.
Happy baking!
THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.
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Ciao for now,
Maria
★★★★★ If you have made this S cookie recipe, I would love to hear about it in the comments below and be sure to rate the recipe!
Recipe
Italian S Cookies
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Ingredients
- 2 cups all purpose flour 284 grams
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- pinch salt
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup olive oil light
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract white
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Egg Wash
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon milk
- OPTIONAL: 2 teaspoons turbinado sugar for sprinkling on egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C. Position rack to middle.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whisk the eggs on medium-high speed until nice and frothy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Slowly add sugar. Continue to whisk until well combined and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Add the oil, extract, and zest. Combine well.
- Remove bowl from stand.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon until well combined, dough will be soft.
- Scoop dough with a medium-sized cookie scoop and drop on a lightly floured surface (approximately 2 tablespoon or 25 grams).
- Roll out each piece in a 4-5 inch strand about ½ inch in diameter.
- Place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and form into an S shape.
- Brush the tops of cookies with egg yolk mixture.
- OPTIONAL: sprinkle with sugar
- Bake for 15-17 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned (this is a pale cookie).
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool.
Video
Notes
- A light-tasting olive oil will contribute to the best overall flavor; however, feel free to use a vegetable or canola oil.
- If you prefer to have a “thicker” looking cookie, make the logs of cookie dough shorter (4 inches) and make smaller tighter curves; if you prefer to have a thinner-looking S shape, make them longer (5-inch strand).
- The recipe can easily be doubled.
- Once the dry ingredients are combined, do not over-mix.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
This post was originally published on August 14, 2016 and republished on May 11, 2021 with updated content and photos. Thanks for sharing!
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Elaine
I don’t have anymore parchment paper what could I use? Thanks…
Maria
You can try greasing your baking sheet with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Hope that helps Elaine.
Joe segari
I made them with cocoa and they were a little dry. I added 40 grams of cocoa and cut back on flour. Should I use less cocoa or add more egg?
Maria
Thanks for reaching out Joe. Cocoa powder tends to absorb more liquid than all-purpose flour, which can lead to drier cookies. Reducing the flour alone may not compensate for the additional dryness. Here is what you can also try the next time you are making them: 1-Consider adding an extra egg yolk to the dough. Egg yolks contain fat and moisture, which can enhance the cookie’s richness and softness. OR 2- Increase the amount of oil, start with 1 tablespoon and evaluate. I am sure you already know this, but overbaking the cookies will also create a drier texture. Have fun experimenting!
Carmela
Thank you very much Maria, this recipe was very easy and delicious. Didn’t change a thing. Made a double batch.
And I will make more for my family they all loved them.
Maria
So happy to read this! Thanks so much for sharing Carmela!
Joseph Segari
Made these 2 times this week. Love them,added atouch of lemon. Is there a way to add cocoa powder.
Maria
So glad you loved them, Joseph! You can definitely experiment with cocoa powder! Start with about 1 tablespoon, and if you want a stronger chocolate flavor, try swapping some flour for cocoa to keep the texture just right. Let me know if it gives them that perfect chocolatey twist!
Lita
Recently baked these superb cookies and they are too die for! Loved them.
Maria
Thanks so much Lita!
Tina
One of my favorite recipes. Love the lemon touch. I’ve also put a lemon glaze on these for added decadence especially if I’m bringing them to an occasion. Tina
Maria
Thanks so much for sharing Tina! The lemon glaze is such a great idea! Great comment!
Mary
Move over store bought S cookies, cuz this recipe is taking over. Great recipe! Thank you so much. Mary
Maria
Mt pleasure Mary! Thanks so much for sharing!
Susy
Another fantastic recipe! I swear I can never get steered wrong with your recipes – thank you.
Maria
I am so thrilled to read this! Thanks so much Susy!
Rose
Hello Maria, I’m just making these S cookies for the second time this week. We love them, they’re delicious. I made them with anise instead of using lemon zest. We all love this cookie. Thank you for sharing this wonderful, delicious, easy recipe.
Louisa
Fantastic S recipe ❤️ I love using EVVO, less calories and very easy to work with. Thank you for sharing 🇮🇹🇺🇸🙋♀️
Rita Sciarrotto
These are so easy to make and delicious with coffee
Aurora
I will never buy S cookies again! Delicious 😋
Maria
I am so thrilled to read this! Thanks so much Aurora!
Jess
These cookies were great! I made a few alterations based on what I had. I followed the whole wheat guidelines, used almond extract instead of vanilla, and added about 1/3 cup of cocoa powder. Light and delicious! Not overly sweet and a quick snack to make. Thank you for the recipe.
Maria
How wonderful Jess! Thanks so much for sharing!
Lena
These cookies were easy and delicious
Doubled the batch and everyone loved them. Great with a morning cup of coffee! Old time Italian cookies.
Will be making these cookies often
Maria
How wonderful Lena! Thanks so much for sharing!
Toni
I was searching for a good Italian cookie recipe and decided on this one. My family and I were not dissapointed. These cookies turned out delicious! I also made a batch with Fiori di Siciia….. so good. This recipe is a keeper.
Maria
Thanks so much Toni!