Lemon ricotta cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tangy taste of lemon with the creamy texture of ricotta cheese. These cookies are a popular Italian dessert that have gained popularity worldwide due to their unique flavor and texture.

Lemon ricotta cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon snack. They are easy to make and can be customized by adding different flavors such as almond or vanilla extract. With their soft and chewy texture and bright lemon flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.

Ingredients

To make delicious lemon ricotta cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese

These ingredients are easily available in most grocery stores. Make sure to use fresh lemon juice and zest to get the best flavor. The ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture to the cookies, making them soft and delicious.

It is important to use unsalted butter in this recipe to control the amount of salt in the cookies. The sugar adds sweetness to the cookies, while the eggs and vanilla extract provide structure and flavor.

Overall, these ingredients work together to create a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors in the lemon ricotta cookies.

Baking Tools Needed

To make lemon ricotta cookies, one needs a few basic baking tools. These include:

Mixing bowls: A set of mixing bowls in different sizes is essential for any baking project. Use smaller bowls for mixing dry ingredients and larger ones for mixing wet ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to measure ingredients like flour, sugar, and baking powder.
Electric mixer: An electric mixer makes it easy to mix ingredients and ensures that the dough is well combined. A stand mixer or a hand mixer can be used.
Cookie scoops: A cookie scoop is a handy tool for portioning out cookie dough. It ensures that each cookie is the same size and shape.
Baking sheets: Baking sheets are used to bake the cookies. Parchment paper can be used to line the baking sheets to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Cooling rack: A cooling rack is used to cool the cookies after they are baked. It allows air to circulate around the cookies and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Zester: A zester is used to remove the zest from the lemon. The zest adds flavor to the cookies.
Juicer: A juicer is used to extract the juice from the lemon. The juice is used to make the glaze that is drizzled over the cookies.

By having these essential baking tools on hand, one can easily make delicious lemon ricotta cookies at home.

Step by Step Recipe Instructions

To make delicious lemon ricotta cookies, follow these simple steps:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.
In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
Add in lemon zest and juice, egg, and whole milk ricotta cheese and mix until well combined.
Gradually beat in the dry ingredients mixture from step 2, and mix until well combined.
Use a small 1 1/2-tablespoon cookie scoop to scoop up dough, and form into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cookies are completely cooled, make the glaze by whisking together confectioners’ sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
Drizzle or spoon the glaze over the cookies and let them set for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy these delicious lemon ricotta cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or share them with friends and family as a sweet treat.

Also Read: Key Lime Cake Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Dessert for Any Occasion

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When making lemon ricotta cookies, there are some common mistakes that can be easily avoided with some simple tips.

Overmixing the Dough

One of the most common mistakes when making lemon ricotta cookies is overmixing the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough and dense cookies. To avoid this, mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix the dough.

Using Cold Butter

Using cold butter can make it difficult to cream the butter and sugar together, resulting in a less fluffy and light texture. It is recommended to use room temperature butter to make the cookie dough.

Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately

Measuring ingredients accurately is crucial to the success of making lemon ricotta cookies. Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the texture and taste of the cookies. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate measurements.

Not Letting the Cookies Cool

Allowing the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack can help prevent them from breaking or falling apart. Do not rush the cooling process, as it can affect the texture and structure of the cookies.

Using Too Much Flour

Using too much flour can make the cookies dry and crumbly. It is important to measure the flour accurately and not pack it into the measuring cup. Use a spoon to scoop the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your lemon ricotta cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Lemon Ricotta Cookies are a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed any time of year. However, storing them correctly is important to keep them tasting just as good as when they were freshly baked. Here are some tips for storing and serving Lemon Ricotta Cookies:

Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. You can use a plastic container, a cookie tin, or a resealable plastic bag. If you’re using a plastic bag, make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing it.
Label the container or bag with the date so you know how long they have been stored. Lemon Ricotta Cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to five days, or in the freezer for up to three months.
If you’re freezing the cookies, make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in the freezer. You can also separate the cookies with layers of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
When you’re ready to serve the cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm them up in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes if you prefer them warm.
Serve the cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a dessert after dinner. You can also decorate them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy delicious Lemon Ricotta Cookies that are fresh and flavorful every time.

Nutritional Information

Lemon ricotta cookies are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger meal. However, it is important to be aware of their nutritional content in order to make informed decisions about how many to eat and how often.

According to MyFitnessPal, one serving of lemon ricotta cookies contains approximately 135 calories, 5.4 grams of total fat, and 8% of the recommended daily intake of saturated fat. The cookies also contain 9% of the recommended daily intake of sodium.

It is worth noting that the exact nutritional content of lemon ricotta cookies may vary depending on the recipe used and the specific ingredients included. For example, some recipes may call for additional sugar or butter, which can increase the calorie and fat content of the cookies.

Overall, lemon ricotta cookies can be a tasty and enjoyable treat in moderation. However, individuals who are watching their calorie or fat intake may want to consume them in smaller quantities or less frequently.

Variations of Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Lemon ricotta cookies are a versatile treat that can be customized in many ways. Here are some variations to consider:

Lemon Poppy Seed Ricotta Cookies: Add poppy seeds to the batter for an extra crunch and texture. The poppy seeds also add a nice contrast to the bright lemon flavor.
Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Cookies: Fold fresh blueberries into the batter for a burst of fruity flavor. The blueberries complement the lemon and ricotta perfectly, making for a delicious and unique cookie.
Lemon Lavender Ricotta Cookies: Add dried lavender to the batter for a floral twist on the classic lemon ricotta cookie. The lavender adds a subtle, fragrant flavor that pairs well with the lemon.
Lemon Almond Ricotta Cookies: Add almond extract to the batter for a nutty twist on the classic lemon ricotta cookie. The almond flavor complements the lemon and ricotta, making for a delicious and unique cookie.
Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting: Top the cookies with a tangy cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of flavor. The frosting also adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the soft and fluffy cookies.

Overall, lemon ricotta cookies are a delicious treat that can be customized in many ways. Whether you prefer a classic lemon flavor or want to experiment with different add-ins, there are endless possibilities when it comes to these versatile cookies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lemon ricotta cookies are a delicious and refreshing treat that are perfect for any occasion. With their tangy lemon flavor and light, fluffy texture, they are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

When making lemon ricotta cookies, it is important to use whole milk ricotta cheese for the best results. Additionally, adding lemon zest and juice to the batter will give the cookies an extra burst of flavor.

There are many different recipes available for lemon ricotta cookies, each with their own unique twist. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or something a little more adventurous, there is sure to be a recipe out there that will suit your tastes.

Overall, lemon ricotta cookies are a simple yet delicious dessert that are sure to impress. Whether you are serving them at a party or enjoying them on your own, they are a treat that you won’t soon forget.

Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.
In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat softened unsalted butter and
granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5
minutes.
Add in lemon zest and juice, egg, and whole milk ricotta cheese and mix until well combined.
Gradually beat in the dry ingredients mixture from step 2, and mix until well combined.
Use a small 1 1/2-tablespoon cookie scoop to scoop up dough, and
form into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets,
spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets
for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool
completely.
Once the cookies are completely cooled, make the glaze by whisking
together confectioners’ sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small
bowl.
Drizzle or spoon the glaze over the cookies and let them set for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recipe for Meyer lemon cookies?

Unfortunately, this section only covers lemon ricotta cookies. However, you can try substituting Meyer lemon juice for regular lemon juice in any lemon ricotta cookie recipe for a slightly different flavor.

How many calories are in a lemon ricotta cookie?

The calorie count of a lemon ricotta cookie will vary depending on the recipe and serving size. A typical lemon ricotta cookie contains around 100-150 calories per cookie.

Are there any healthy variations of lemon ricotta cookies?

There are some healthier variations of lemon ricotta cookies that use ingredients like almond flour, coconut sugar, and olive oil instead of all-purpose flour, white sugar, and butter. However, it’s important to note that even these healthier versions should be consumed in moderation.

Where can I find lemon ricotta cookies near me?

You can check your local bakeries or Italian specialty stores to see if they carry lemon ricotta cookies. Alternatively, you can try making them at home using one of the many recipes available online.

What is the recipe for lemon ricotta cookies with lemon curd?

To make lemon ricotta cookies with lemon curd, you can try adding a dollop of lemon curd to the center of each cookie before baking. Alternatively, you can try making a lemon ricotta cookie sandwich by spreading lemon curd between two cookies.

Is there a gluten-free version of lemon ricotta cookies with almond flour?

Yes, there are many gluten-free lemon ricotta cookie recipes that use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. These recipes are a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.