Name: Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies: 7 Irresistible Secrets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese, room temperature; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup sliced almonds (for topping); Powdered sugar, for dusting

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Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies have a unique charm that captures the essence of classic Italian baking. These cookies are not only soft and chewy but also rich in flavor thanks to the creamy ricotta cheese and the aromatic almond extract. When you bite into one, the delightful texture and light sweetness will transport you to an Italian café, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Finished with sliced almonds and a light dusting of powdered sugar, they look as beautiful as they taste. Let’s dive into this easy almond ricotta cookies recipe that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or afternoon coffee breaks!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Italian almond cookies. First, they are incredibly soft and moist, thanks to the ricotta cheese, making them a delightful contrast to traditional cookies. Second, the subtle sweetness combined with the nutty flavor of almonds creates a unique taste that keeps you coming back for more. Third, they are easy to make, requiring only basic ingredients and simple steps. Additionally, these cookies fit various dietary preferences as they can easily be modified into gluten-free almond ricotta cookies. Lastly, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time, whether as a sweet snack or a sophisticated dessert. With this best almond ricotta cookie recipe, you’ll impress your family and friends alike!

Ingredients for Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sliced almonds (for topping)
Powdered sugar, for dusting

How to Make Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, cream the ricotta cheese, butter, and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Step 2: Add the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 7: Scoop the dough using a cookie scoop, roll into balls, and place on the sheet 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Press a few sliced almonds on top of each cookie.
Step 9: Bake for 13–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden and tops are cracked.
Step 10: Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 11: Once completely cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies

Keep these in mind:

These cookies are great for holiday cookie platters.
Perfect for afternoon coffee breaks.
Enjoy them as a sweet snack anytime.
For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough.

Best Ways to Serve Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies

These cookies shine when served fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Additionally, for a festive twist, consider drizzling almond ricotta cookies with icing for a beautiful finish. These ideas will elevate your cookie game and impress your guests!

How to Store and Reheat Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies

To maintain their soft texture, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, making them a great option for meal prep. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies?

The key to perfect almond ricotta cookies lies in properly creaming the ricotta with butter and sugar. This ensures a light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.

Can I make Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for last-minute gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies?

To avoid dry cookies, be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing until just combined ensures a soft and chewy texture.

Variations of Italian Almond Ricotta Cookies You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
Add chocolate chips for a rich twist on these traditional Italian almond cookies.
For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Incorporate citrus zest for an added layer of freshness.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Chocolate Eclair Cake or Creamy Tuscan Scallops. You can also explore Creamy Greek Chicken Bowls for a delightful meal option. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, learn more about Gluten-Free Lemon Zucchini Bread. For tips on baking, visit Grandma Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies.