Italian Ricotta Cookies

Italian Ricotta Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances soft, cake-like texture with the rich flavors of almond and vanilla. Ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, these cookies stand out thanks to their unique use of ricotta cheese. The addition of colorful nonpareils makes them visually appealing, adding a festive touch that’s sure to please everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Italian Ricotta Cookies recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavorful: The combination of almond and vanilla extracts provides a delicious flavor that sets these cookies apart.
• Versatile: These cookies are great for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant nonpareils make for an eye-catching treat that adds charm to any dessert table.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the soft texture and sweet taste, making this a hit with the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Italian Ricotta Cookies, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process and ensure you don’t miss any steps.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for mixing your ingredients evenly.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when cream butter and sugar together, ensuring a light cookie texture.
• Baking sheets: Properly sized sheets help achieve even cooking while preventing the cookies from sticking.

Ingredients

Soft cake-like cookies flavored with almond and vanilla.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup salted butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated white sugar
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Icing

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 2 to 4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

For Decoration

• 5 ounces nonpareils (any color)

How to Make Italian Ricotta Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add in ricotta cheese, eggs, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, combine baking powder, baking soda, and flour. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each cookie for spreading.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool on wire racks.

Step 5: Prepare the Icing

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk or cream until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed by adding more milk if too thick.

Step 6: Decorate Your Cookies

Once cooled, generously drizzle icing over each cookie and sprinkle with nonpareils for decoration.

Enjoy your delicious Italian Ricotta Cookies! They’re sure to be a favorite among family and friends!

How to Serve Italian Ricotta Cookies

Italian Ricotta Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them at a gathering or as a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to impress.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the cookie’s flavor and texture.

At a Dessert Table

• Perfect for parties, these cookies add color and charm alongside other desserts.

As Holiday Treats

• Ideal for festive occasions, decorate them with seasonal sprinkles for extra cheer.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your morning brew or afternoon tea for a delightful pick-me-up.

Gift-Worthy Packaging

• Wrap them in decorative boxes to share with friends and family; they make great gifts!

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How to Perfect Italian Ricotta Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Italian Ricotta Cookies, follow these simple tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients – This ensures better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; mix just until combined.
• Chill the dough if needed – If it’s too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes before baking.
• Experiment with flavors – Adding lemon zest or chocolate chips can elevate the taste.
• Monitor baking time carefully – Check for a slight golden edge; they should remain soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Ricotta Cookies

While Italian Ricotta Cookies shine on their own, serving them with complementary dishes enhances the experience. Here are some excellent side options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Pairing with mild cheeses like mascarpone adds richness and variety.

3. Whipped Cream
   A dollop of homemade whipped cream makes each bite even more indulgent.

4. Chocolate Fondue
   Dip your cookies into warm chocolate for an irresistible treat.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream
   The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with these soft cookies.

6. Coffee Cake
   Serve alongside coffee cake for a delightful brunch spread that will impress guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Ricotta Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and ricotta cheese, are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and cake-like ones.
• Skipping chilling time: Allow the dough to chill before baking. This step enhances flavor and texture, preventing excessive spreading during baking.
• Incorrect measuring of flour: Measure flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method. Too much flour can result in dry cookies.
• Not adjusting for your oven: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake to avoid overcooking or undercooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Italian Ricotta Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Ricotta Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• Properly stored, they can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Italian Ricotta Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. This will keep them soft but be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm them briefly in a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Ricotta Cookies.

What makes Italian Ricotta Cookies different from regular cookies?

Italian Ricotta Cookies are soft and cake-like due to the ricotta cheese, giving them a unique texture compared to traditional cookie recipes.

Can I customize my Italian Ricotta Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or different extracts to tailor the flavor to your liking.

How long do Italian Ricotta Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to one week in the fridge or three months in the freezer.

Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese for this recipe?

While you can use low-fat ricotta cheese, it may affect the texture and flavor. Full-fat ricotta is recommended for best results.

Are Italian Ricotta Cookies suitable for special diets?

These cookies contain dairy and gluten; however, you can experiment with dairy-free alternatives or gluten-free flour if needed.

Final Thoughts

Italian Ricotta Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their soft texture and sweet flavors make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends!