Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Italian Chocolate Toto Cookies are a traditional Christmas treat enjoyed for their rich, spiced chocolate flavor and soft, cake-like texture. These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply savoring with a cup of coffee. Their aromatic spices and sweet glaze make them an irresistible festive favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground cloves
- Ground nutmeg
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Milk
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Vanilla extract
- Chopped walnuts (optional)
- Raisins (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for glaze)
- Milk (for glaze)
- Lemon juice (optional, for glaze)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms.
- Fold in chopped walnuts and raisins, if using.
- Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little milk and lemon juice until smooth.
- Dip the cooled cookies into the glaze or drizzle it over the top.
- Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Add a splash of espresso for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Use orange zest instead of lemon juice in the glaze for a citrus twist.
- Substitute chopped almonds or hazelnuts for walnuts.
- Incorporate mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.
Storage/Reheating
Store Italian Chocolate Toto Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. These cookies do not require reheating.
FAQs
What makes Toto cookies unique?
Their rich chocolate flavor combined with warm spices and a sweet glaze sets them apart from other cookies.
Can I make Toto cookies without nuts or raisins?
Yes, both are optional. You can omit them or substitute with other mix-ins like chocolate chips.
How do I keep the cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute.
Is it necessary to glaze the cookies?
The glaze adds sweetness and a festive look, but the cookies are delicious without it as well.
How long do Toto cookies stay fresh?
They stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature and can be frozen for longer storage.
Can I add other spices to the recipe?
Absolutely. Try adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice for additional warmth.
What type of cocoa powder is best?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended for the best flavor.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
Are these cookies traditional in all regions of Italy?
They are especially popular in Southern Italy and among Italian-American communities during Christmas.
Conclusion
Italian Chocolate Toto Cookies are a cherished holiday treat, perfect for celebrating the festive season with loved ones. Their rich, spiced chocolate flavor and sweet glaze make them a standout addition to any holiday dessert spread. Enjoy baking and sharing these traditional cookies, and create sweet memories this Christmas.
Print
Italian Chocolate Toto Cookies | Traditional Christmas Treat
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 36 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Italian Chocolate Toto Cookies, also known as Tetù or Tatulini, are soft, cake-like chocolate cookies flavored with warm spices and often coated in a sweet glaze. These Sicilian Christmas cookies are rich, slightly chewy, and perfect for holiday gatherings. Their festive appearance, especially when topped with colorful sprinkles, makes them a standout on any cookie tray.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4–5 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Colorful nonpareils or sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Form the dough: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Fold in the chopped nuts and chocolate chips, if using.
- Shape the cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into small balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft. They should be slightly firm on the outside and tender inside.
- Cool: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare the glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable but thick enough to coat the cookies.
- Glaze the cookies: Dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them back on the wire rack.
- Decorate: While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle with colorful nonpareils or sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Set and serve: Let the glaze set completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Flavor Variations: Add a splash of espresso or Marsala wine for extra depth. Orange or lemon zest can also brighten the flavor.
- Texture Tips: The dough should be soft but not overly sticky. If needed, add a bit more flour to handle easily.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. The flavors develop even more after a day or two!
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *