These Italian Mostaccioli are soft, warmly spiced cookies coated in a smooth, glossy chocolate shell. They are deeply chocolatey, gently sweetened with honey, and perfect for festive gatherings or special occasions when you want a traditional treat with rich flavor and aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies combine cocoa, honey, and cinnamon for a balanced, comforting taste that feels both classic and indulgent. The dough is easy to work with, the baking time is short, and the final chocolate coating gives them a beautiful finish that makes them ideal for gifting or serving at celebrations. They stay tender for days and taste even better after resting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour: 300 g (2½ cups)
Granulated sugar: 150 g (¾ cup)
Unsweetened cocoa powder: 30 g (¼ cup)
Honey: 120 ml (½ cup)
Milk: 60 ml (¼ cup)
Baking powder: 1½ teaspoons
Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Dark chocolate: 200 g
Butter: 30 g

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and ground cinnamon, mixing well to distribute everything evenly. Add the sugar, honey, and milk, then mix until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for a few minutes until smooth and pliable.

Divide the dough into portions and shape each one into an oval or diamond-shaped cookie, about 1 cm thick. Place the shaped cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each.

Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for about 20 minutes. The cookies should be set but still soft. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Once cooled, melt the dark chocolate together with the butter using a heatproof bowl over simmering water or a gentle microwave method, stirring until smooth and glossy. Dip each cookie into the melted chocolate, coating it fully, then place it back on parchment paper. Let the chocolate set completely before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings, depending on cookie size.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Cooling and coating time: 30 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store the finished Mostaccioli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, allowing them to return to room temperature before serving. Reheating is not recommended, as it may melt the chocolate coating and alter the texture.

FAQs

What are Mostaccioli cookies?

Mostaccioli are traditional Italian cookies made with cocoa, honey, and spices, often coated in chocolate and commonly prepared during festive seasons.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but the cookies will be sweeter and less intense in chocolate flavor compared to using dark chocolate.

Why is honey used in the dough?

Honey adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a distinctive aroma that helps keep the cookies soft.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

They should feel set on the outside but still soft to the touch. Overbaking will make them dry.

Can I add other spices?

You may add small amounts of nutmeg or cloves if desired, but keep the balance subtle so the cocoa remains the main flavor.

Why must the cookies cool before dipping in chocolate?

If the cookies are warm, the chocolate will not adhere properly and may become dull or uneven.

Can these cookies be frozen?

Yes, freeze them without the chocolate coating for up to 2 months, then thaw and coat with chocolate before serving.

What texture should the dough have?

The dough should be soft and pliable, not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a small splash of milk.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes, they are excellent for gifting due to their firm shape, rich flavor, and attractive chocolate coating.

Conclusion

Italian Mostaccioli Chocolate Cookies are a wonderful blend of tradition, warmth, and rich chocolate flavor. With their soft interior and glossy coating, they offer a satisfying treat that feels special yet simple to make. Whether served at a celebration or enjoyed with a cup of tea, these cookies bring a taste of Italian heritage to your table.

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