Italian Ricotta Cookies Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a delightfully soft and tender cookie that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Italian Ricotta Cookies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture courtesy of creamy ricotta cheese and a subtle burst of brightness from lemon zest, these cookies are incredibly versatile and simply addictive. Not only do they look stunning with their snowy glaze and sprinkles, they also boast a rich flavor that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or just indulging yourself with a cozy cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Italian Ricotta Cookies Recipe relies on simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that play their part beautifully. Each element contributes to the perfect softness, moistness, and flavor balance that makes these cookies so stand-out.

• 4 cups flour: The sturdy base that holds the cookie together with just the right chew.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: Adds a gentle lift to the dough, ensuring lightness.
• 3/4 teaspoons Kosher salt: Enhances flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
• 1 cup butter (softened): For a rich, tender crumb and buttery depth.
• 1 3/4 cups sugar: Sweetens perfectly, helping with golden edges and caramel notes.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything beautifully while contributing to the cookie’s structure.
• 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Brings warmth and an irresistible aroma.
• 1 3/4 cups whole milk ricotta cheese: The secret ingredient that guarantees velvety softness and moisture.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: For the glaze that crowns these cookies with a sweet, glossy finish.
• 4-5 Tablespoons whole milk: Thins the glaze for perfect spreading and shine.
• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and smoothness to the icing.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with a subtle, comforting flavor.
• Sprinkles (Rainbow or Holiday): To add whimsy, color, and a festive feel that everyone loves.

How to Make Italian Ricotta Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining two cookie sheets with parchment paper. This little prep means your cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly, making clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and Kosher salt. Mixing these early ensures your cookies have an even rise and balanced seasoning in every bite.

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Flavorings

Using a standing mixer, beat the softened butter, sugar, and lemon zest until combined, creamy, and smooth. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating again until your mixture is luscious and fluffy—this step sets the foundation for light, tender cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Ricotta Cheese

Blend in the whole milk ricotta cheese gradually. This creamy addition is what makes these cookies uniquely moist and irresistibly soft without feeling heavy.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the flour mixture into your wet ingredients, beating until a soft dough forms. This dough has a wonderful softness that promises delicate cookies with just the right density.

Step 6: Scoop Onto Prepared Sheets

Use a small cookie scoop to drop rounded mounds of dough onto the parchment-lined cookie sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for gentle spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges begin to turn just a light golden brown. It can be tempting to let them brown more, but they stay wonderfully tender when slightly underbaked.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to the counter to cool briefly on the sheets before moving them to wire racks. Cooling fully is crucial to prevent the glaze from melting right off later.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, whole milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. Adjust the milk quantity to get a glaze that’s thick enough to coat but runny enough to spread.

Step 10: Glaze and Decorate

Dip or spoon the glaze over the cooled cookies, then immediately sprinkle with your favorite colorful sprinkles. Let the glaze set for about 15-20 minutes before serving or storing.

How to Serve Italian Ricotta Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

The classic glaze sprinkled with bright, festive sprinkles is a winning combination, but feel free to get creative by adding finely chopped pistachios or a dusting of powdered cinnamon for an elegant twist that complements the ricotta’s creaminess.

Side Dishes

These cookies shine alongside a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a creamy latte, making an afternoon break feel like a special occasion. They’re also delightful with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla gelato for a light dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider assembling a cookie platter with a variety of glazes—maybe lemon, almond, or chocolate—then top with edible flowers or citrus zest curls. Packaging a batch in a cute tin or cellophane bag with a ribbon makes a thoughtful homemade gift that anyone would treasure.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Italian Ricotta Cookies remain soft and flavorful when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To maintain that fresh-from-the-oven texture, place a slice of bread inside the container to keep moisture balanced.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats later, freeze the unglazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag. Frozen cookies keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature and then add the glaze fresh.

Reheating

Warm your cookies gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven for 5 minutes to revive that homemade, just-baked softness. Avoid overheating as it can dry out the delicate ricotta texture.

FAQs

Can I use part-skim ricotta instead of whole milk ricotta?

While whole milk ricotta is best for richness and moisture, part-skim can work in a pinch. Just expect a slightly less tender cookie since the fat content affects texture.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill your dough briefly if the kitchen is warm. Properly measuring flour also helps maintain a firmer dough.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, but you’ll need a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to maintain the right texture and structure. You may want to experiment as gluten-free doughs can behave differently.

What’s the best way to store glazed cookies?

Glazed cookies store best in a single layer in an airtight container to prevent sticking. If stacking is necessary, place parchment paper between layers to preserve the glaze.

Can I add food coloring to the glaze?

Absolutely! A drop or two of gel food coloring blends beautifully with the powdered sugar glaze for fun, festive colors that brighten up your cookie presentation.

Final Thoughts

Making this Italian Ricotta Cookies Recipe is like bringing a little slice of Italian bakery magic right into your kitchen. Each bite is tender, flavorful, and so comforting that it’s hard not to feel a bit more joyful sharing them. Whether you’re baking for a party, holidays, or just because, these cookies will become an instant favorite. So grab your mixing bowl and ricotta, and let’s get baking—you won’t regret it!

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