Easy Ricotta Cookies Recipe: Traditional Italian Delicacy
Ricotta cookies are a delightful traditional Italian treat, known for their soft, cake-like texture and subtly sweet flavor. These cookies are incredibly easy to make and are perfect for any occasion, from festive holiday gatherings to simple tea time treats. With a rich history rooted in Italian culinary traditions, these cookies offer a unique taste that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the light, fluffy texture of a classic cookie. Let's dive into the simple steps of creating these delicious morsels in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1⁄2 tsp baking soda
- 1⁄4 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1⁄2 tsp almond extract (optional)
Glaze:
- 1 1⁄2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
- 1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: colored sprinkles for decoration
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures there are no lumps and the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for the texture of your cookies.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the ricotta cheese to the butter and sugar mixture, followed by the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Beat until everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart. They will spread a bit during baking.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until they are just starting to turn golden around the edges. They should remain soft and not overly brown.
Step 8: Cool
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glazing the Cookies
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Adjust the thickness with more sugar or milk as needed.
Step 9: Apply the Glaze
Once the cookies are cool, dip the top of each cookie into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off, or simply spoon the glaze over the cookies. Decorate with sprinkles immediately before the glaze sets.
Step 10: Set
Let the glaze set for at least an hour. This can be sped up by placing the cookies in a cool place or lightly chilling them.
🍪 Note: For an extra touch of authenticity, some traditional recipes add a hint of anise extract or use almond extract for a slight nutty flavor.
These Ricotta Cookies are not only a testament to Italian baking but also a delightful blend of texture and taste. Their simplicity in ingredients and preparation belies the richness of flavor and the luxurious mouthfeel they offer. The cookies carry a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy, light texture from the ricotta cheese, making them a favorite for any cookie lover. The glaze adds a layer of sweetness and visual appeal, making these cookies irresistible on any dessert platter.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
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Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that has a similar weight and texture to regular flour.
How should I store ricotta cookies?
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These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them, although the texture might change slightly.
What can I use if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
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While ricotta gives a unique texture, you can try using cottage cheese (blended until smooth) or mascarpone as alternatives, though the result will be slightly different.
Related Terms:
- recipe for italian ricotta cookies
- Ricotta Cookies
- Ricotta cake
- Ricotta chocolate chip cookies
- Ricotta cheesecake
- Cannoli Cookies