Name: Traditional S-Shaped Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 30
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened and at room temperature; 4 large egg yolks; 2 cups flour; 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract (lemon, anise, almond or another extract can be substituted); Note: Also, for lemon, add 2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon peel; If dough is too dry, add 1 teaspoon cream or milk

Italian S Cookies (also known as Delicious Venetian Cookie Bussola Buranello Cookies) are a traditional cookie that's popular on the island of Burano in Venice, Italy, and widely recognized.

This is a very old recipe and simply perfect for serving with any hot beverage, and easily recognized by its "S" shape and traditionally sold unfrosted; however can be frosted after baking.

Many times, you will see these simple lemon cookies in small Italian bakery shops along the water, and they serve alongside espresso.

This traditional yet classic Italian cookie recipe has been passed down for generations, often baked during Easter and Christmas, making them perfect for family gatherings, holiday cookie trays.

Although these are never frosted in Burano, we lightly frosted them for the holiday for a more festive look.

Scroll down and print off the recipes at the end.

Why You'll Love These Italian Cookies

Authentic Venetian Tradition: These cookies are a classic tradition straight from the heart of Burano, Italy.
Simple Ingredients: Butter, sugar, flour, and eggs create a rich, tender cookie using simple pantry ingredients.
Perfect with Coffee or Wine: Traditionally served dipped in a sweet dessert wine (vin santo) or enjoyed with espresso or a cappuccino.
Beautiful S-Shape: Elegant and fun, they add a touch of Italy to your Christmas or Easter cookie platter.

Why Make These Italian S Cookie Classic Italian Cookies

Making Bussolà Buranello cookies will make a Venetian culture experience, baking them right in your own kitchen.
Perfect for gatherings and Holiday Cookie Trays: Their delicate sweetness and shape make them a gift-giving and a conversation piece.
Versatile: Serve them plain, dipped in chocolate, covered in colorful sprinkle candies to match a holiday theme, or sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Unique: Unlike typical American cookies, these Italian treats bring Old World charm to your cookie trays and are a classic baking treat.

Tips for Making Venetian Cookies

After you shape the cookies, place them on parchment paper so they brown evenly on the bottom
Chill the dough for an hour if it feels too soft to shape.
For an authentic touch, brush lightly with beaten egg before baking for a glossy finish.
Add a hint of lemon zest or anise for a more traditional Venetian flavor.
Store in an airtight container; they keep beautifully for up to a week or frozen up to 3 months.

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Our Final Thoughts on This Classic S-Shaped Cookie Recipe

Whether you’re Italian or just love exploring the delicious taste of a traditional European cookie, Venetian Bussolà Buranello cookies are the first you should try.

Their buttery richness, elegant S-shape, and cultural significance will enhance all your family and friends gathering with conversation on their background.

Bake a batch, you'll be hooked, serve them with a fresh brew of coffee, and bring the flavors of Venice right into your home.

Once you have a taste of Italian buttery cookies, you’ll understand why they’ve been loved in Italy for centuries.

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Italian

Yield: 30

Author: Claudia Lamascolo