Lemon Ricotta Cookies

There’s something truly magical about baking, especially when it comes to making Lemon Ricotta Cookies. I remember the first time I tasted these delightful treats at a friend’s gathering. The moment I bit into one, I was transported to a sunlit afternoon, the zesty lemon flavor dancing on my taste buds while the soft, chewy texture melted in my mouth. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to perfect this recipe, bringing joy to every gathering with these little bites of happiness. Whether it’s a spring picnic or a cozy afternoon at home, Lemon Ricotta Cookies always bring a burst of sunshine to the table.

What’s In This Lemon Ricotta Cookies

When it comes to baking, the quality and combination of ingredients make all the difference. In Lemon Ricotta Cookies, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating their unique flavor and texture. From the creamy ricotta cheese to the zesty lemon, these ingredients work in harmony to produce cookies that are not only delicious but also satisfying.

• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of any cookie, providing structure and chewiness.
• Baking Soda: This leavening agent ensures the cookies rise perfectly, creating a soft texture.
• Baking Powder: Works alongside baking soda to give the cookies extra lift for that perfect bite.
• Salt: A critical ingredient that enhances the flavors in the cookies.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a tender cookie.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
• Eggs: Acts as a binder, adding moisture and richness.
• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese: The star ingredient that gives the cookies their unique moistness and flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavor profile and adds a refreshing tartness.
• Lemon Zest: Enhances the lemon flavor, giving the cookies an aromatic lift.
• Powdered Sugar: Used for the glaze, adding a sweet finish to the cookies.

Making Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Making Lemon Ricotta Cookies is an enjoyable and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of cookies that are sure to impress. Each step is designed to bring out the best in the ingredients, ensuring a delightful treat for you and your loved ones.

1. Start by whisking together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly dispersed, which is crucial for consistent baking.
2. In a separate larger bowl, combine unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together until light and fluffy, which should take about five minutes. This aeration process is key to achieving a light texture in the finished cookies.
3. Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. This method ensures that the eggs combine thoroughly, leading to a smooth batter.
4. Next, incorporate the whole milk ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat the mixture until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine them until just barely together for a tender cookie.
6. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least four hours. This chilling step is important as it helps the flavors develop and makes the dough easier to scoop.
7. Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
8. Scoop about 1 and ½ tablespoons of the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there’s about two inches of space between each cookie.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. The cookies should be cooked through but not browning too much. Keep an eye on them; you’ll want a light golden bottom.
10. After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for an additional 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
11. In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest to create a smooth glaze. Gently spoon about ½ teaspoon of the glaze on each cookie once they have cooled. Let the glaze harden before serving.

Recipe Notes about Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Here are some helpful tips to make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

• Storage: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze these cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to an airtight container once frozen solid. They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them an excellent choice for an afternoon snack.
• Variations: Try adding poppy seeds for a lemon-poppy seed twist or substitute lime for a different citrus flavor.
• Glaze Options: Feel free to experiment with the glaze by adding different flavors or colors for a fun twist.

Side Dish Ideas for Lemon Ricotta Cookies

When it comes to serving Lemon Ricotta Cookies, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience:

• Afternoon Tea: Serve these cookies at an afternoon tea party alongside a selection of your favorite teas for a delightful treat.
• Picnics: Their sturdy texture makes them perfect for packing in lunchboxes or picnic baskets without losing shape.
• Brunch Gatherings: Pair these cookies with fresh fruit and pastries for a bright and cheerful brunch spread.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Perfect for springtime occasions, these cookies bring a refreshing lemon flavor that resonates with seasonal gatherings.
• Holiday Gifts: Package them in pretty tins as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during festive seasons.
• Storing: Keep cookies in a cool, dry place, ensuring they maintain their freshness for as long as possible.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Lemon Ricotta Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the bright flavors of lemon. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration. So why not gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try? You won’t regret sharing these cookies with family and friends!

Lemon Ricotta Cookies

The ultimate treat for any gathering, these Lemon Ricotta Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with zesty flavor. Perfectly sweet and bright, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 40 cookies

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Oven
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
• ½ teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• ½ cup Unsalted Butter Softened
• 1 ¾ cups Granulated Sugar
• 2 large Eggs Room Temperature
• 15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese
• 3 tablespoons Lemon Juice
• 2 tablespoons Lemon Zest
• 1 ½ cups Powdered Sugar
• 3 tablespoons Lemon Juice
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest

Instructions

 

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
• In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing each time until combined. Add the ricotta, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat until combined.
• Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just barely combined. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
• Preheat the oven to 375°. Line two baking sheets with parchment. Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of the chilled dough onto the baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between the cookies.
• Bake for 15 minutes, until the cookies are cooked through but aren’t browning. Leave the cookies on the baking sheets for an additional 15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
• In a small bowl combine the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
• Gently spoon about ½ teaspoon of glaze on each cookie. Let the glaze harden before serving.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness.
• Tip 2: You can freeze these cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to an airtight container once frozen solid. They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Tip 3: These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them an excellent choice for an afternoon snack.
• Tip 4: Try adding poppy seeds for a lemon-poppy seed twist or substitute lime for a different citrus flavor.
• Tip 5: Feel free to experiment with the glaze by adding different flavors or colors for a fun twist.

Keyword baking with lemon, Dessert Recipes, Lemon Cookies, Ricotta Cookies

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Meet Layla Reed

I’m Layla! I am happiest when I’m cooking with ingredients that are fresh from the market and in season. I love creating rustic, wholesome dishes that truly celebrate the natural flavors of the produce. I worked alongside Romina to ensure this recipe feels grounded, authentic, and absolutely delicious. I hope it brings a taste of the season to your home!