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Ricotta cookies are a delightful treat that brings the essence of Italian baking to your kitchen. With their soft, pillowy texture and a subtly sweet flavor, these cookies have captured the hearts of dessert lovers across generations. Originating from Italy, ricotta cookies embody the rich culinary traditions of Italian cuisine, where quality ingredients and family recipes come together to create something truly special.

Italian Ricotta Cookies

Discover the delight of making Sweet & Creamy Ricotta Cookies, a special Italian treat that brings a taste of tradition to your kitchen. With their soft, moist texture and unique flavors, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Learn how to blend fresh ricotta, simple ingredients, and personal touches to create a batch that’s sure to impress. Ideal for sharing with family or serving at gatherings, these cookies are a sweet reminder of the joy of baking together.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon lemon zest

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Colorful sprinkles (for decoration)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

    Prepare Cream Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and well blended.

      Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and almond extract (if using) to the ricotta mixture. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

          Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

            Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly with the back of the scoop.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will remain soft.

                Cool Cookies: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with milk until smooth to create a glaze. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar, if necessary.

                    Decorate Cookies: Once the cookies are cool, drizzle the glaze over them and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.

                      Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delightful ricotta cookies at gatherings, or keep them in an airtight container to enjoy at home!

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 40 mins | 24 cookies