How to Make Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Indulge in the art of baking as we guide you through the step-by-step process of creating delectable lemon ricotta cookies. Bursting with zesty lemon flavor and the creamy richness of Ricotta, these cookies are a treat that’s sure to captivate your taste buds. Whether you’re planning a party or simply craving a sweet delight, these cookies are the answer.

Ingredients You Need:

To embark on your baking journey, gather the following ingredients:

• 15 oz. Ricotta
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• Pinch of salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 heaping tsp. baking soda
• 2 Tbsp. lemon peel, finely grated

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Follow these easy steps to create a batch of flavorful lemon ricotta cookies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the Ricotta, room temperature unsalted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Use a mixer on low speed to blend the ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the all-purpose flour and baking soda to the mixture. Blend the ingredients until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a smooth dough.

Step 4: Add Lemon Zest

Gently fold in the finely grated lemon peel to infuse the dough with vibrant lemon flavor.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Spoon teaspoon-sized dough balls onto greased cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This will allow the cookies to spread as they bake. Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes. Once the cookies are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a cookie rack to cool.

Step 6: Tips for Serving:

These flavorful cookies are a wonderful addition to parties, special occasions, or simply as a treat to brighten your day. For an added touch of elegance, consider a quick glaze by mixing one cup of powdered sugar with the juice and zest of one lemon. Brush this glaze onto the top of the cookies after they’ve cooled for a burst of citrusy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use margarine instead of unsalted butter for this recipe? A: While unsalted butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can experiment with margarine if you prefer. Keep in mind that the taste and consistency may vary slightly.

Q: Can I substitute lemon extract for lemon peel? A: Lemon peel provides a natural, aromatic flavor to the cookies. If you use lemon extract instead, adjust the quantity according to your preference and the strength of the extract.

Q: How can I store these cookies to keep them fresh? A: Store your lemon ricotta cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Adding a slice of bread can help prevent them from becoming overly dry.

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use? A: Absolutely! You can shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a resealable bag and store in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Q: Can I add other mix-ins, like chocolate chips or nuts? A: Certainly! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits, to customize the cookies to your taste.

Q: Are these cookies suitable for people with dietary restrictions? A: While these cookies are not inherently gluten-free or dairy-free due to the use of flour and ricotta, you can explore alternative ingredients to adapt the recipe to your dietary needs. Gluten-free flour and dairy-free substitutes can be considered, but make sure to adjust quantities and follow appropriate substitutions.

There you have it – a step-by-step guide to crafting scrumptious lemon ricotta cookies that are sure to impress. The combination of Galbani® Ricotta, zesty lemon peel, and other high-quality ingredients results in a treat that’s both delightful and indulgent. Whether you’re sharing them with friends at a party or enjoying them on your own, these cookies are a testament to the joy of baking.