Authentic Italian Rainbow Cookies Recipe

February 01, 2025

Authentic Italian rainbow cookies on a plate, featuring three layers of almond sponge cake in vibrant green, yellow, and red, separated by a thin layer of jam and coated in rich chocolate. Classic festive dessert recipe.

Italian Rainbow Cookies (also known as Tricolor Cookies or Seven-Layer Cookies) are a classic Italian-American treat. These festive, almond-flavored, multi-layered cookies are made with three colored sponge cake layers, raspberry jam, and a chocolate topping. They’re perfect for the holidays or any special occasion!

Recipe Details:

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per layer
  • Chill Time: 4+ hours
  • Total Time: About 5 hours
  • Category: Dessert
  • Yield: About 40 small cookies

Ingredients:

For the Cake Layers:

  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 6-8 drops red food coloring
  • 6-8 drops green food coloring

For the Filling:

  • ¾ cup seedless raspberry jam (or apricot jam, if preferred)

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for smoothness)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line three 9x13-inch baking pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Add egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the almond extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

  1. In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  2. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Color and Bake the Layers

  1. Divide the batter evenly into three bowls.
  2. Dye one bowl red, one green, and leave the third plain. Stir gently to distribute the color.
  3. Spread each batter into a prepared baking pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Let the layers cool completely on wire racks.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

  1. Place the green layer on a large tray or cutting board. Spread half of the raspberry jam evenly over it.
  2. Place the plain (white) layer on top and spread the remaining jam over it.
  3. Place the red layer on top. Press gently to adhere the layers together.

Step 5: Weigh Down and Chill

  1. Cover the assembled layers with plastic wrap and place a heavy book or baking sheet on top.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to help the layers stick together.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate Topping

  1. Melt the chocolate with the vegetable oil in a microwave or over a double boiler until smooth.
  2. Spread half of the melted chocolate over the top layer and refrigerate for 15 minutes until firm.
  3. Flip the whole block over and spread the remaining chocolate on the other side. Chill again until set.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

  1. Use a sharp knife to trim the edges for clean sides.
  2. Cut into 1-inch squares or rectangles and serve!

Tips & Variations:

  • Use almond paste: For an even more authentic almond flavor, replace part of the butter with ½ cup almond paste.
  • Flavor twist: Substitute the raspberry jam with apricot preserves for a classic alternative.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Enjoy Your Homemade Italian Rainbow Cookies! 🎉🍪

These beautiful, flavorful cookies are a showstopper at any gathering. Enjoy them with espresso or a cup of tea for a true Italian treat! 🍵✨



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