These Italian Ricotta Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, made extra soft and moist with ricotta cheese. Topped with a delicate almond glaze and colorful sprinkles, these cookies are sure to stand out at any holiday table or special occasion. Their light texture and subtle sweetness make them an irresistible treat. Perfect for gifting or sharing with family and friends, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re baking for a holiday cookie swap or just a cozy afternoon treat, Italian Ricotta Cookies are bound to become a favorite in your home.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 sticks butter, softened (1/2 pound)
- 1 ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 container ricotta cheese (15 oz.)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
For the glaze:
- 4 – 5 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Rainbow sprinkles (optional for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, ricotta cheese, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Roll or scoop the dough into teaspoon-sized balls and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cookies are lightly browned.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk milk, powdered sugar, and almond extract together in a bowl until smooth.
- Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze and immediately sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles if desired.
- Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 108 kcal per cookie
Servings: 60 cookies
A Delicate and Delicious Treat
Italian Ricotta Cookies are a classic Italian dessert that has gained immense popularity worldwide for their soft texture, delightful flavor, and versatility. These cookies are incredibly light and tender, thanks to the addition of ricotta cheese, which not only makes them fluffy but also gives them a slightly tangy, creamy flavor that is unique to this recipe. Topped with a simple yet flavorful almond glaze and colorful sprinkles, they are perfect for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations.
A Brief History of Italian Ricotta Cookies
Ricotta cheese has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. Derived from the Italian word “recooked,” ricotta is traditionally made from the whey left over from producing other cheeses. Its soft, creamy consistency makes it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes, including cannoli, lasagna, and, of course, cookies.
Italian Ricotta Cookies are thought to have originated in Southern Italy, where dairy farming and cheese production are central to the local economy. Over time, these cookies became a cherished part of Italian holiday traditions, especially during Christmas and Easter. As Italian immigrants brought their culinary heritage to other parts of the world, ricotta cookies became a beloved treat in countries like the United States, where they are now enjoyed year-round.
The Texture and Flavor Profile
One of the most notable characteristics of Italian Ricotta Cookies is their unique texture. Unlike other cookies that are crisp or crumbly, ricotta cookies are pillowy soft, almost cake-like in their consistency. This softness is a direct result of the ricotta cheese, which adds moisture and richness without making the cookies feel heavy.
The flavor of Italian Ricotta Cookies is subtly sweet, making them appealing to a wide range of palates. The ricotta cheese lends a very mild tang, which balances out the sweetness from the sugar and the glaze. The almond extract in the glaze enhances the overall flavor, adding a slightly nutty, aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with the tender cookie base. You can also customize the flavor of the glaze by using other extracts like vanilla, lemon, or orange.
Why Ricotta?
Ricotta cheese is what sets these cookies apart from other traditional cookie recipes. While some might assume the addition of cheese would create a savory flavor, it actually does the opposite. The ricotta contributes to the soft texture and delicate flavor of the cookies, making them exceptionally tender and moist. Unlike cream cheese, which has a more pronounced tang, ricotta offers a subtle richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
Furthermore, the cheese works as a binding agent in the cookie dough, which means you don’t need to rely as heavily on butter or oil for moisture. This creates a lighter, fluffier cookie that still maintains its shape and texture when baked.
Tips for Making Perfect Italian Ricotta Cookies
- Use Fresh Ricotta: The freshness of your ricotta can make a significant difference in the final texture of the cookies. Opt for high-quality, whole-milk ricotta for the best results. If your ricotta seems too wet, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture, which will prevent your dough from becoming too loose.
- Chill the Dough: While many ricotta cookie recipes don’t require chilling, allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes can make it easier to handle. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and gives them a slightly firmer texture.
- Don’t Overmix: As with many baked goods, overmixing the dough can lead to dense, tough cookies. Once you add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the cookies light and airy.
- Experiment with Glaze Flavors: While almond glaze is traditional, feel free to experiment with other flavors. A lemon or orange glaze can add a bright citrus note that pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta. For a more indulgent option, try a chocolate glaze or dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate.
- Store Unfrosted for Longer Shelf Life: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store them, keep them unglazed until ready to serve. The unglazed cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. You can then glaze them right before serving to ensure the best texture and presentation.
Variations and Customizations
The basic Italian Ricotta Cookie recipe is a perfect canvas for creativity, allowing for numerous variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Citrus Ricotta Cookies: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a zesty twist. A lemon glaze can also replace the almond glaze for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Chocolate Ricotta Cookies: For chocolate lovers, incorporate cocoa powder into the dough or dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate. You can also add chocolate chips for a richer, indulgent version.
- Spiced Ricotta Cookies: During the fall and winter months, consider adding warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the dough. This adds a cozy, festive flavor that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Gluten-Free Ricotta Cookies: For those with gluten sensitivities, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The ricotta keeps the cookies moist and tender, even with gluten-free flour.
Serving Suggestions
Italian Ricotta Cookies are a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are a few ideas for serving and pairing:
- With Coffee or Tea: These cookies are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee, espresso, or tea. Their light sweetness and soft texture make them ideal for an afternoon snack or a post-dinner treat.
- Holiday Cookie Trays: Italian Ricotta Cookies are a festive addition to holiday cookie platters. Their bright sprinkles and glazed tops make them visually appealing, and their flavor is a crowd-pleaser.
- Gifting: These cookies make excellent homemade gifts. Package them in a decorative tin or box, and they’ll be a hit at cookie exchanges or as thoughtful presents for friends and family.
- For Special Occasions: Whether you’re hosting a baby shower, bridal shower, or holiday party, these cookies can be customized with colored sprinkles to match the theme. You can even tint the glaze with food coloring to create a more festive presentation.
The Role of Italian Ricotta Cookies in Holidays and Traditions
Italian Ricotta Cookies hold a special place in many Italian-American households, especially during holidays like Christmas and Easter. These cookies are often made in large batches and shared with family and friends as part of the celebration. The soft, delicate nature of these cookies makes them a comforting treat during the colder months, and their vibrant sprinkles add a cheerful touch to any holiday table.
In Italian tradition, cookies like these are often prepared for weddings, baptisms, and other important family gatherings. Their simplicity and versatility make them suitable for any occasion, whether formal or casual.
Conclusion:
Italian Ricotta Cookies are a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Their soft, cake-like texture and subtly sweet flavor make them a hit with people of all ages. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, holiday gathering, or just because, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite. With their versatile flavor profile and endless customization options, Italian Ricotta Cookies are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves baking.
While the recipe itself is straightforward, a few simple tips—such as using fresh ricotta and experimenting with glaze flavors—can elevate these cookies to a whole new level. Perfect with a cup of coffee or as part of a festive cookie tray, Italian Ricotta Cookies are a delicious way to bring a little taste of Italy into your home.
