Krumiri Cookies: Authentic Italian Butter Cookies from Piedmont
There’s something special about a cookie that lasts through generations. Krumiri are exactly that kind of treat.
They first appeared in 1878, in the charming town of Casale Monferrato, tucked into Italy’s scenic Piedmont region. Since then, these golden, buttery biscuits have won over taste buds with their rich flavor and crumbly bite.
Here’s the fun part. According to local legend, pastry chef Domenico Rossi gave Krumiri their signature curve to honor King Vittorio Emanuele II specifically, the king’s famously bold mustache. After the monarch’s death, Rossi created the cookie as a sweet tribute to Italy’s first unified ruler.
But Krumiri aren’t just about looks or legend. What really makes them shine is their simplicity. Just five ingredients—flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. No milk. No water. Nothing extra.
The result? A cookie that crumbles just right, melts on your tongue, and delivers buttery depth with every bite. Rustic and refined, all at once. Krumiri quickly became a household favorite. They even earned royal seals of approval, turning a humble cookie into a symbol of Italian pride.
Even now, more than 140 years later, bakers still follow that original recipe. The care, the flavor, the tradition it all lives on.
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Combine the butter with the powdered sugar and egg yolks. Incorporate the flour, cornmeal, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until a firm dough forms. Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Retrieve the chilled dough from the refrigerator and transfer it into a pastry bag equipped with a 1/2" serrated edge tip.
- Pipe ridged tubes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, creating lengths of at least 3 inches. Once piped, gently bend them into the traditional krumiri shape.
- While the krumiri are being piped and shaped, preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Once ready, bake the krumiri for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. After baking, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool.
Notes
Serving
Krumiri cookies are wonderfully versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of drinks and occasions. Here are a few ideas to enjoy them at their best:
With Coffee or Espresso: The rich, crumbly texture of Krumiri makes them ideal for dunking in a hot espresso or cappuccino. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a cozy coffee break.
Alongside Tea: Serve them with black tea or herbal blends. Their subtle sweetness complements floral or spiced teas without overpowering the flavor.
With Dessert Wine: For a true Italian touch, pair Krumiri with a glass of sweet wine like Moscato d’Asti or Vin Santo. The cookie’s buttery notes and the wine’s sweetness are a match made in heaven.
As Part of a Dessert Platter: Include Krumiri on a dessert board with other Italian treats like amaretti, cantucci, and chocolate-dipped fruits.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or moisture. If stacking cookies, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking or breaking.
Freezing (Optional): While traditionally enjoyed fresh, Krumiri can be frozen. Place in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Avoid Refrigeration: Storing in the fridge can make them lose their crisp, crumbly texture—room temp is best!
