Name: Lemon Ricotta Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups granulated white sugar; 2 eggs room temperature eggs; 1 container ricotta cheese (15 ounce); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 lemon zested (about 1 tablespoon); 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted); 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 lemon zested (about 1 tablespoon)

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There’s something so soothing about the aroma of freshly baked Lemon Ricotta Cookies wafting through the house. For me, these cookies bring back memories of sunny afternoons spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who had a knack for transforming simple ingredients into something magical. The combination of tangy lemon and creamy ricotta creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a sweet craving, these cookies never fail to bring smiles to faces. Each bite is like a little burst of sunshine, with a soft texture and a sweet glaze that makes them irresistible.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
22 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon, Oven

The Beauty of This Lemon Ricotta Cookies

They’re Incredibly Soft and Chewy

One of the things I absolutely adore about Lemon Ricotta Cookies is their delightful texture. Thanks to the ricotta cheese, these cookies are not just your average crispy biscuits. Instead, they boast a soft and chewy interior that melts in your mouth with each bite. This unique texture sets them apart from traditional cookies and makes them a true treat.

Refreshing Citrus Flavor

The refreshing taste of lemon in these cookies is simply divine! The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest elevates the flavor, giving it that zesty kick that wakes up your taste buds. It’s like a little burst of summer, making them a perfect choice for spring gatherings or a bright afternoon snack.

Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive recipe, look no further! Making Lemon Ricotta Cookies is straightforward, even for those who may not consider themselves bakers. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies ready in no time. Plus, the clean-up is minimal!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a tea party or need a sweet treat for a potluck, these cookies fit right in. They are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of the year or for any celebration. Your friends and family will be asking for the recipe!

Great for Gift Giving

These cookies also make a lovely gift! I often bake a batch and package them in a cute tin or box to share with friends. They make a heartfelt gift that shows you care, and who doesn’t love receiving homemade goodies?

What You Need for Lemon Ricotta Cookies

The ingredients for Lemon Ricotta Cookies come together beautifully to create a harmonious flavor profile. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the soft texture and bright taste. The key players include the ricotta cheese, which adds moisture and richness, and the lemon, which provides that refreshing zing we all love. Together, they create a cookie that’s not only delicious but also satisfying.

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cookie, giving structure and body.
2 teaspoons baking powder: A crucial leavening agent to help the cookies rise.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works in tandem with baking powder for a lighter texture.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb.
2 cups granulated white sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their chewy texture.
2 eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
15 ounces ricotta cheese: The star ingredient that makes these cookies soft and creamy.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens up the flavor profile.
1 lemon, zested: The zest adds an intense lemon flavor.
1 ½ cups powdered sugar: Used for the glaze to give a sweet finishing touch.
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Enhances the glaze flavor.
1 lemon, zested: Adds flavor to the glaze as well.

Recipe Directions for Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Making Lemon Ricotta Cookies is just as enjoyable as eating them! Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on this delightful baking adventure. Follow these steps to create your own batch of delicious cookies.

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This step is crucial, as an adequately preheated oven ensures even baking and that your cookies rise beautifully.
Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
In a medium bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together and set them aside. This will help to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensure a light cookie.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. You should be able to see a pale color change, which indicates that air has been incorporated.
Add the 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step is essential for ensuring the eggs are fully incorporated.
Next, add in the ricotta cheese, 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and the zest of 1 lemon. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You’ll notice a lovely aroma coming from the bowl!
Gradually add the dry ingredients from the medium bowl to the wet mixture. Beat until everything is just combined and smooth. At this point, you might want to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all the flour is mixed in.
Using a tablespoon or a cookie dough scoop, drop even amounts of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are slightly golden and firm around the edges. Keep an eye on them; you want them cooked but not overdone.
Once they’re baked, remove the cookie sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, stir together 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and the zest from 1 lemon until smooth. The glaze should be thick but spreadable.
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread the glaze over each cookie. Allow the glaze to harden before storing the cookies in an airtight container.
Store the cookies at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a refreshing treat!

Things Worth Knowing

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier blending and a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: When adding flour, mix until just combined to ensure your cookies remain tender.
Cooling Time: Allowing the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them helps maintain their shape.
Glazing Tips: If your glaze seems too thick, you can add a tiny bit more lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.

Recipe Notes about Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Here are some useful tips to ensure your Lemon Ricotta Cookies turn out perfect every time. From storage to pairing suggestions, these tips will help you make the most of this delightful recipe.

Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked dough. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an excellent choice for an afternoon treat.
Variations: You can experiment with different citrus flavors by using orange or lime instead of lemon for a different twist.
Serving Size: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can also be served at gatherings where a sweet touch is needed.

Great Combinations for Lemon Ricotta Cookies

When it comes to serving Lemon Ricotta Cookies, the options are endless! Here are some amazing ideas to enhance your experience:

Tea Parties: These cookies are a delightful addition to any afternoon tea spread. Their bright flavor complements a variety of teas.
Picnics: Pack them for a sunny day out. They’re easy to transport and make for a light dessert.
Spring Celebrations: With their fresh lemon flavor, these cookies are perfect for spring gatherings or Easter celebrations.
Pairing with Fruits: Serve alongside fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a refreshing dessert option.
Storage Tips: For best results, store them in a cool place, away from direct sunlight, to maintain their texture and flavor.

FAQ

Yes, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese for Lemon Ricotta Cookies. However, keep in mind that using low-fat alternatives may slightly alter the texture and richness of the cookies. They might not be as soft as those made with full-fat ricotta, but they will still be delicious!

You can store Lemon Ricotta Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them. When stored properly, they will maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked dough by scooping it onto a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookie dough balls to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Lemon Ricotta Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. They are excellent with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a lovely addition to a brunch or afternoon tea. You could also serve them with fresh fruit for a refreshing dessert.

Conclusion

Lemon Ricotta Cookies are truly a delightful treat that combines the soft texture of ricotta with the refreshing flavor of lemon. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a gathering with friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the process of baking, and savor the delicious results.