Ricotta Cookies

If you’re searching for a cookie that is soft, tender, and utterly delightful, ricotta cookies are about to become your new favorite treat. These cookies offer a unique texture and flavor, thanks to the creamy ricotta cheese that keeps them moist and light. With a hint of lemon zest and juice, they have a bright, fresh taste that perfectly balances the sweetness. Whether you’re baking for an afternoon snack, a party, or just because, this ricotta cookie recipe is simple to make and impossible to resist.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Ricotta cookies stand out from the typical cookie crowd because of their incredible texture and subtle flavor. Unlike traditional cookies that can sometimes turn out dense or crumbly, these cookies are soft, almost cake-like, and melt in your mouth. The ricotta cheese adds moisture without making the dough greasy or heavy, which means you get a cookie that’s rich but not overwhelming. The addition of lemon zest and juice imparts a fresh, citrusy note that makes these cookies perfect for spring and summer, but honestly, they’re delicious year-round.

Another reason this recipe is a must-try is how easy it is to customize. You can add your favorite mix-ins, glaze them with icing, or enjoy them plain with a cup of tea or coffee. Plus, the ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly, making this a great recipe to whip up anytime.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (170g) granulated sugar
• 8 ounces (225g) whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

How To Make Ricotta Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Ricotta, Egg, Vanilla, and Lemon

Add the ricotta cheese to the butter and sugar mixture and beat until fully combined and smooth. Then, add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until everything is incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or your fingers to about ½ inch thickness.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops spring back when lightly pressed. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your ricotta cheese is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
• Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
• Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added; overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
• If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• For best flavor, zest and juice a fresh lemon just before baking.
• Use a cookie scoop to ensure even-sized cookies for consistent baking.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a classic twist.
• Almond Ricotta Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract and sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
• Glazed Ricotta Cookies: Mix powdered sugar with a little lemon juice or milk to create a simple glaze and drizzle it over cooled cookies.
• Berry Ricotta Cookies: Gently fold in ½ cup of fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity burst.
• Spiced Ricotta Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm spice flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Store your ricotta cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, place the container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy cookies that taste freshly baked, warm them for 10 seconds in the microwave before serving.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven before eating.

FAQ

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

Yes, you can use part-skim ricotta cheese, but the cookies might be slightly less rich and tender. Whole milk ricotta gives the best texture and flavor, but part-skim works fine in a pinch.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough is optional. If you want thicker cookies, chilling for 30 minutes helps. However, you can bake the dough immediately with great results.

Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?

To make a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil and use a dairy-free ricotta alternative, such as almond ricotta. Replace the egg with a flax egg or another egg substitute. Keep in mind texture and taste may vary slightly.

How can I make my ricotta cookies more lemony?

For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest to 2 teaspoons and add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice. You can also add a lemon glaze on top for an extra citrus kick.

Conclusion

Ricotta cookies are a delightful treat that combines a soft, airy texture with a subtle lemon flavor that brightens every bite. This recipe is easy to follow, uses simple ingredients, and yields deliciously tender cookies perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them plain, add mix-ins, or drizzle a glaze on top, ricotta cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. Bake a batch today and discover just how irresistible these little delights can be!