Dead Bone Cookies / Ossi dei Morti

These crunchy little cookies get their name from their resemblance to bones. On All Souls’ Day, many Italian families bake them at home or buy them at shops and markets.

²/₃ c. sugar
8 tbsp. unsalted butter
2 eggs
2 c. sifted all-purpose flour
1 tsp. vanilla extra
1 c. ground almonds or pistachios (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Lightly grease 2 cookie sheets.
3. Combine sugar, butter, and eggs in a medium-sized bowl. Add the flour gradually, beating until smooth. Add the vanilla and nuts and mix well.
4. Break off small pieces of dough (about 1 tbsp. each), and form them into skinny, bonelike shapes. Place them 1 inch apart on the cookie sheets.
5. Bake 10 minutes or until the cookies are lightly browned. Remove from cookie sheets with a spatula and cool on a wire rack.

Preparation time: 20 to 25 minutes
Baking time: 10 to 15 minutes
Makes about 2 dozen cookies

Ossi dei morti are simple to make and fun to eat! Try serving them with hot chocolate or coffee for a sweet snack.