Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies Recipe
These Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies are soft, tender, and mildly sweet treats featuring creamy ricotta cheese and the delicate flavor of almond extract. They’re subtly nutty with optional sliced almonds and finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar, making them perfect for a delightful snack or dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups (500 g) ricotta cheese (whole-milk)
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Toppings
- ½ cup sliced almonds (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and softened unsalted butter until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
- Add Flavors and Eggs: Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and almond extract, combining everything thoroughly to infuse the dough with flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet ricotta mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If using, gently stir in the sliced almonds now.
- Shape Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Place the sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn a pale golden color.
- Cool and Finish: Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- For a nuttier texture and flavor, add sliced almonds into the dough as directed. You can also sprinkle a few on top before baking for added crunch.
- If you prefer a stronger almond taste, increase almond extract slightly but avoid overpowering the delicate flavor.
- Using whole-milk ricotta ensures the cookies stay moist and tender.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Keywords: Italian ricotta cookies, almond cookies, soft cookies, ricotta cheese recipes, almond extract cookies, homemade cookies, tender cookies
Find it online: https://victoriablair.com/italian-almond-ricotta-cookies-recipe/
