Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italian Chocolate Toto Cookies, a traditional treat bursting with warm spices, rich cocoa, and a hint of orange zest. Topped with a sweet glaze, these soft, pillowy cookies are perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you crave a taste of Italian tradition.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- All-purpose flour
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground cloves
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Whole milk
- Vegetable oil or melted butter
- Orange zest
- Vanilla extract
- Optional: Chopped nuts or raisins
For the Glaze:
-
- Powdered sugar
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate glaze) or additional powdered sugar (for vanilla glaze)
- Milk or water
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), orange zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms.
- If desired, fold in chopped nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.
- Shape and Bake the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions of the dough into balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and slightly puffed. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Glaze
- For chocolate glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- For vanilla glaze: Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, omitting the cocoa powder. Adjust the consistency by adding milk or water a little at a time.
- Glaze the Cookies
- Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Place the glazed cookies back on the wire rack and let the glaze set. Optionally, decorate with sprinkles for a festive touch.
Notes
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of almond extract or rum to the glaze for a unique twist.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Baked cookies (before glazing) can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian