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Ricotta cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of a classic cookie. These soft, pillowy desserts are a favorite in many households, especially during the holidays, but they’re so delicious that you’ll want to make them all year round. What sets ricotta cookies apart is their unique texture—thanks to the ricotta, they’re incredibly moist and tender, almost cake-like, yet still light and fluffy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this ricotta cookie recipe is simple, foolproof, and guaranteed to impress everyone who tries them.
If you’ve never baked with ricotta before, you’re in for a treat! This versatile ingredient not only adds a subtle tanginess to balance the sweetness but also keeps the cookies soft and fresh for days. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect batch of ricotta cookies, from the essential ingredients to step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and even answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll have a go-to recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Ricotta Cookies
Essential Ingredients
To make the perfect batch of soft and delicious ricotta cookies, you’ll need the following basic ingredients. These are the foundation of the recipe, ensuring the cookies turn out moist, tender, and full of flavor:
- Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): The star of the show! Ricotta adds moisture and a subtle tanginess that makes these cookies irresistibly soft.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups): Provides structure to the cookies without making them too dense.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cookies and helps them achieve a lightly golden edge when baked.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Eggs (2 large): Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cookies’ fluffy texture.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon): Gives the cookies a slight lift, making them light and airy.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
These ingredients are easy to find and likely already in your pantry, making this recipe both simple and accessible.
Optional Add-Ins for Flavor Variations
While the classic ricotta cookie recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it with a few optional add-ins to suit your taste preferences. Here are some popular variations:
- Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon): Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A classic addition that enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
- Almond Extract (½ teaspoon): For a nutty, aromatic twist that complements the ricotta perfectly.
- Chocolate Chips (½ cup): Fold in semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
- Dried Fruit (½ cup): Try cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for a chewy, fruity contrast.
- Powdered Sugar Glaze: A simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla or lemon juice for a sweet finishing touch.
These add-ins allow you to get creative and tailor the cookies to your liking, making them perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Choosing the Best Ricotta Cheese
The quality of your ricotta cheese can make or break your cookies. Here’s how to choose the best ricotta for the perfect texture and flavor:
- Opt for Whole Milk Ricotta: Whole milk ricotta has a higher fat content, which makes the cookies richer and more tender. Avoid low-fat or skim versions, as they can result in drier cookies.
- Check the Texture: Look for ricotta that is smooth and creamy, without excessive graininess. A high-quality brand will have a velvety consistency.
- Drain Excess Moisture: If your ricotta seems watery, place it in a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth for 10-15 minutes to remove excess liquid. This ensures your dough isn’t too wet.
- Freshness Matters: Always check the expiration date and choose the freshest ricotta available for the best flavor.
By selecting the right ricotta, you’ll ensure your cookies are soft, moist, and absolutely delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Ricotta Cookies
Preparing the Dough
Creating the perfect ricotta cookie dough is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your dough is smooth, well-mixed, and ready for baking:
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Add the ricotta cheese and mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you’re using vanilla extract, almond extract, or lemon zest, add them at this stage.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense. The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, and easy to handle.
Shaping and Baking the Cookies
Once your dough is ready, it’s time to shape and bake your cookies. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Scoop the Dough:
- Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion out the dough. Aim for evenly sized scoops (about 1-2 tablespoons each) to ensure uniform baking.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Roll each portion of dough into a smooth ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are set. The cookies should still look soft in the center when you take them out—they’ll firm up as they cool.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid Overbaking: Ricotta cookies are meant to be soft and tender. Remove them from the oven when the edges are just starting to turn golden, even if the centers look slightly underdone.
- Rotate the Baking Sheets: If baking multiple sheets at once, rotate them halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
- Let Them Cool on the Sheet: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set without falling apart.
Adding the Finishing Touches
The final step is adding a delicious topping to your ricotta cookies. Here are some ideas:
- Powdered Sugar Glaze:
- Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract or lemon juice. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag.
- Lemon Glaze:
- Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the powdered sugar glaze for a tangy, citrusy twist.
- Sprinkles or Nuts:
- While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle the cookies with colorful sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for added texture and visual appeal.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar:
- For a simpler option, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve.
These finishing touches not only enhance the flavor but also make your ricotta cookies look as good as they taste!
Tips for Storing and Serving Ricotta Cookies
How to Store Ricotta Cookies
To keep your ricotta cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Airtight Container:
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. Layering them between sheets of parchment paper can prevent sticking.
- Room Temperature:
- Store the container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Ricotta cookies are naturally moist, so they’ll stay soft and tender during this time.
- Avoid Humidity:
- Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as humidity can make the cookies soggy.
Freezing Instructions
Ricotta cookies freeze beautifully, whether as dough or baked cookies. Here’s how to freeze them for later use:
- Freezing Cookie Dough:
- Scoop the dough into portions and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Freezing Baked Cookies:
- Allow the baked cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen baked cookies can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Ricotta cookies are versatile and pair well with a variety of beverages and desserts. Here are some serving ideas:
- With Coffee or Tea:
- The soft, slightly sweet cookies are perfect alongside a cup of coffee, espresso, or tea.
- Dessert Platter:
- Arrange the cookies on a platter with other desserts like biscotti, macarons, or fruit tarts for a beautiful presentation.
- Holiday Treats:
- Add festive sprinkles or colored glaze to make them a hit at holiday gatherings.
- Gift Idea:
- Package the cookies in a decorative box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ricotta Cookies
Can I Use Low-Fat Ricotta?
While you can use low-fat ricotta, it’s not recommended for this recipe. Here’s why:
- Texture: Low-fat ricotta has less moisture and fat, which can result in drier, denser cookies.
- Flavor: Whole milk ricotta adds richness and a creamy texture that enhances the overall flavor.
If you must use low-fat ricotta, consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash of milk to the dough to compensate for the reduced moisture.
How Long Do Ricotta Cookies Stay Fresh?
Ricotta cookies have a relatively long shelf life if stored properly:
- Room Temperature: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 week, though refrigeration can dry them out slightly.
- Freezer: 2-3 months for baked cookies or dough.
To refresh stale cookies, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make gluten-free ricotta cookies with a few adjustments:
- Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture.
- Texture Note: Gluten-free cookies may be slightly more delicate, so handle the dough gently and ensure the cookies are fully cooled before moving them.
Why Are My Cookies Not Fluffy?
If your ricotta cookies turn out dense or flat, here are some common reasons and fixes:
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can develop too much gluten, leading to dense cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Expired Baking Powder: Check the expiration date on your baking powder, as it loses its effectiveness over time.
- Too Much Flour: Measure your flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding excess flour, which can make the cookies dry and dense.
- Overbaking: Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Conclusion
There you have it—everything you need to know to make the perfect batch of soft and delicious ricotta cookies! From the essential ingredients to step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and creative variations, this recipe is designed to be simple, foolproof, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking these cookies for a special occasion, a holiday treat, or just because, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.
Don’t forget to experiment with the optional add-ins and toppings to make these cookies uniquely yours. And if you’re looking for more dessert inspiration, check out our The Ultimate No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake Desserts for more recipes that will transport your taste buds to Italy!