Imagine biting into a cloud-like cookie that melts in your mouth, delivering a perfect balance of sweetness and rich, creamy texture. These Italian-inspired Ricotta Cheese Cookies are not just another dessert – they're a culinary experience that will transport you straight to a charming bakery in Rome. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to become your new go-to treat that will impress family and friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 32 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ricotta cheese and egg to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing on medium speed until the ingredients are well combined and smooth, approximately 1-2 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
- Enjoy your delicious ricotta cheese cookies with a cup of coffee or tea!
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter, egg, and ricotta cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cookie texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the dough just until ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and ensures even baking of your cookies.
- Watch Baking Time Carefully: Cookies are done when edges are lightly golden – they'll continue to set while cooling.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to maintain their delicate structure.
- Powdered Sugar Trick: Dust cookies when completely cool for a professional bakery-style finish.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
