Ricotta Cookies Recipe: Soft, Sweet, and Irresistible
Ricotta cookies are the perfect blend of soft, tender texture and light sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a special occasion, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies will never disappoint. Their creamy ricotta base gives them a unique moistness and flavor that’s hard to beat. Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe!
Ingredients for Ricotta Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful treats:
For the Cookies:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Food coloring or sprinkles for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step ensures the cookies are soft and tender.
- Add wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and ricotta cheese until well combined.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies light and fluffy.
2. Chill the Dough
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step helps the dough firm up, making it easier to scoop and bake evenly.
Pro Tip: For even better flavor, chill the dough overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
3. Bake the Cookies
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop the dough: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 12–14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft.
- Cool: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
Making the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If you’d like, add a few drops of food coloring for a festive touch.
- Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies.
- Decorate with sprinkles if desired for an extra pop of color and fun!
Pro Tip: Let the glaze set for at least 15 minutes before serving to avoid sticky fingers.
Serving and Storing Ricotta Cookies
Serving:
These cookies are perfect for tea-time snacks, holiday cookie platters, or as a light dessert after dinner. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
Storing:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Extend their freshness by refrigerating them for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and glaze before serving.
Pro Tip: Layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper when storing to keep them from sticking together.
Why You’ll Love Ricotta Cookies
- Soft and moist: The ricotta adds a luxurious texture.
- Customizable: Play with different flavors in the glaze, like almond or lemon, for variety.
- Crowd-pleasers: Their light sweetness and unique texture appeal to all age groups.
Try this ricotta cookie recipe today, and don’t forget to share these delicious treats with your loved ones. They’re sure to become a family favorite!
