Name: Ricotta Cheese Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for icing); 3 tablespoons milk (for icing); red & green sugar crystals (for decoration)

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There’s something magical about the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, and nothing captures that feeling quite like Ricotta Cheese Cookies. Growing up, my family had this cherished tradition during the holidays, where we would gather in the kitchen, laughter filling the air, as we prepared these delightful treats. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and each bite evokes memories of warm gatherings and festive celebrations. With their soft, chewy texture, these cookies are wonderfully unique, thanks to the creamy ricotta cheese that keeps them moist and flavorful. I remember the first time I took a bite; it was a revelation! The combination of sweet and subtle flavors made these cookies an instant favorite for everyone. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just to enjoy at home, Ricotta Cheese Cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face. Let’s dive into why these cookies are a must-try!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Blender, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Ricotta Cheese Cookies Shines

Unique Texture and Flavor

One of the standout features of Ricotta Cheese Cookies is their moist and tender texture. The ricotta cheese not only adds creaminess but also a subtle sweetness that sets these cookies apart from traditional recipes. They have a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth, making each bite a delightful experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While Ricotta Cheese Cookies are a holiday favorite, they truly shine year-round. Whether it’s a birthday party, a cozy afternoon tea, or just a treat for yourself, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their festive look, especially when topped with colorful sugars, makes them a delightful addition to any dessert table.

Easy to Make

Don’t worry if you’re not a baking expert; the process of making Ricotta Cheese Cookies is simple and straightforward. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is forgiving and allows for great results with minimal effort. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time!

Family Tradition

Baking Ricotta Cheese Cookies has become a cherished family tradition for many. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bond with loved ones, share stories, and create lasting memories. The joy of baking together, combined with the anticipation of tasting the cookies once they’re out of the oven, makes for a delightful experience that everyone can enjoy.

Versatile Decorating Options

What I love about Ricotta Cheese Cookies is that you can easily customize their appearance. You can ice them with a simple glaze or sprinkle them with colored sugars for a festive touch. Additionally, you can experiment with flavors by adding citrus zest or a touch of almond extract to the dough. Each variation brings something special and unique!

Shopping List for Ricotta Cheese Cookies

When preparing to bake the delightful Ricotta Cheese Cookies, it’s essential to gather high-quality ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect cookie texture and flavor. The key players here are the creamy ricotta cheese, which provides moisture, and the all-purpose flour, which gives structure. Together, they ensure these cookies are soft and delicious.

1/2 cup butter, softened: Brings richness and flavor, creating a tender cookie.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create that lovely golden color as they bake.
1 cup ricotta cheese: The star ingredient that adds moisture and a unique flavor to the cookies.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and complements the sweetness of the cookies.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the overall texture.
2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure to the cookies, ensuring they hold their shape.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for icing): Creates a sweet glaze for topping the cookies.
3 tablespoons milk (for icing): Helps to achieve a smooth consistency for the icing.
red & green sugar crystals: For decoration, adding a festive touch to the cookies.

Making This Ricotta Cheese Cookies

Baking Ricotta Cheese Cookies is a delightful journey that begins with some basic steps. As you follow along, you’ll find that the process is as enjoyable as the delicious results. Let’s get started on making these treats that are sure to please everyone!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your cookies bake evenly. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the baking powder and salt evenly throughout the dough.
In a large bowl, use a mixer on low speed to beat 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of butter until blended. Then, increase the speed to high and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. The sugar granules help to aerate the butter, giving the cookies a lovely texture.
At medium speed, add in 1 large egg, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is well combined. The ricotta cheese adds moisture and ensures these cookies stay soft and delicious.
Once everything is mixed, reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and beat until a dough forms. You’ll notice the texture becoming thicker as you combine everything.
Chill your cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and makes the dough easier to handle when forming the cookies.
After chilling, drop dough by level tablespoons onto the prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each mound. This allows the cookies room to spread while baking.
Bake the cookies for about 15 minutes or until they are very lightly golden on the bottom edges. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be soft and fluffy, not overbaked!
Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This is essential to prevent them from becoming soggy.
To prepare the icing, mix 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar with 3 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl until well blended. Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the icing and set them back on the cooling rack. Sprinkle with colorful sugar crystals for a festive finish!

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling the dough: Always chill your dough for at least 2 hours. This not only helps with flavor but also makes shaping the cookies easier.
Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Watch your baking time: Each oven is different; check the cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time to ensure they don’t overbake.
Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final product. Opt for fresh ricotta cheese and high-quality butter.

Recipe Tips about Ricotta Cheese Cookies

Before you embark on this baking adventure, here are some handy tips to ensure your Ricotta Cheese Cookies turn out perfectly every time!

Storage: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them fresh and delicious.
Freezing: You can freeze these cookies after they’ve cooled. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to three months.
Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Their soft texture complements the warm drink perfectly.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different toppings or additions. Nuts or chocolate chips can be added for an extra crunch.
Serving: These cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or just as a sweet treat for yourself!

Best Served With

The delightful Ricotta Cheese Cookies are not only delicious on their own but can be enhanced with various accompaniments and served in numerous ways:

Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The pairing brings out the flavors beautifully.
Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Fruit Compote: A side of fresh fruit compote can add a fruity contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
Whipped Cream: Topping them with a dollop of whipped cream can elevate your serving to a new level.
Cookie Platters: These cookies are fantastic for holiday cookie platters. Their festive look and taste will impress your guests.
Gift Sharing: Package them in a decorative box and share with family and friends during the holidays.

FAQ

The addition of ricotta cheese is what sets these cookies apart. Unlike traditional cookies that might use only butter and sugar, ricotta cheese adds moisture and a unique flavor that’s both creamy and slightly sweet. This ingredient not only enhances the texture, making them softer and more cake-like, but it also allows for a delightful twist on classic cookie recipes.

While ricotta cheese is the star ingredient in this recipe, if you’re in a pinch, you could try substituting it with another soft cheese like mascarpone. However, keep in mind that this might alter the final flavor and texture. The creaminess of ricotta cheese is hard to replicate, so I recommend sticking with it for the best results.

To keep your Ricotta Cheese Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them. Just place the cooled cookies into a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they’ll remain delicious for up to three months!

Ricotta Cheese Cookies are incredibly versatile! They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or any celebration where a sweet treat is needed. Their festive appearance, especially when decorated with colorful sugars, makes them a delightful addition to cookie platters during the holidays. You can also enjoy them as an afternoon treat with tea or coffee.

Conclusion

The wonderful thing about Ricotta Cheese Cookies is their ability to bring joy and warmth to any occasion. Their unique texture and flavor make them a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack. I encourage you to try making these cookies; I promise they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home too. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a delicious cookie that’s sure to bring smiles all around!