Ricotta cookies are soft, cake-like treats that melt in your mouth and deliver a burst of sweet, creamy flavor. Made with fresh ricotta cheese, they’re surprisingly easy to bake and perfect for holidays, brunch, or everyday indulgence.
If you’ve never tried ricotta cookies, you’re in for a real treat. These soft, pillowy delights are like a cross between a cake and a cookie—tender, moist, and full of subtle sweetness that lingers on your tongue. Unlike traditional cookies that can be crisp or chewy, ricotta cookies have a unique texture that’s almost melt-in-your-mouth soft, thanks to the star ingredient: fresh ricotta cheese.
What makes ricotta cookies so special is their simplicity. You don’t need a stand mixer, special pans, or advanced baking skills. With just a few pantry staples—flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and of course, ricotta—you can create something truly magical. They’re a favorite in Italian households, especially around Christmas and Easter, but their crowd-pleasing flavor makes them perfect any time of year. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, bringing a dessert to a potluck, or just craving something sweet, ricotta cookies are a reliable go-to.
Key Takeaways
- Ricotta cookies are incredibly moist and tender thanks to the creamy texture of ricotta cheese, which keeps them soft for days.
- They’re versatile and customizable—add lemon zest, chocolate chips, or a simple glaze to match your taste.
- Perfect for beginners—no fancy techniques needed; just mix, scoop, and bake.
- Great for gifting or sharing—their elegant look and delicious taste make them ideal for parties and holidays.
- Can be made ahead of time—they store well and even taste better the next day as flavors meld.
- Naturally egg-rich and dairy-forward—ideal for those who love rich, comforting baked goods without being overly sweet.
- Rooted in Italian tradition—these cookies have been a family favorite for generations, especially during festive seasons.
📑 Table of Contents
What Are Ricotta Cookies?
Ricotta cookies are a beloved Italian-American dessert that combines the lightness of a cake with the convenience of a cookie. Originating from Southern Italy, these treats were traditionally made during festive seasons and family gatherings. The base is a simple batter made with ricotta cheese, flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, which is then baked into soft, round cookies.
The Role of Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is the secret behind these cookies’ incredible texture. Unlike cream cheese or yogurt, ricotta has a slightly grainy yet creamy consistency that adds moisture without making the cookies dense. It also lends a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. When baked, the ricotta helps the cookies rise gently, resulting in a tender crumb that’s neither dry nor crumbly.
Texture and Flavor Profile
Imagine biting into a cookie that feels like a cloud—soft, airy, and just sweet enough to satisfy your sweet tooth. That’s what ricotta cookies deliver. They’re not overly sugary, which makes them perfect for pairing with coffee or tea. The flavor is mild and buttery, with room for enhancements like citrus zest, vanilla, or spices. Many bakers also top them with a simple powdered sugar glaze or drizzle them with chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence.
Why You’ll Love Baking Ricotta Cookies
There’s something deeply satisfying about baking ricotta cookies. They’re forgiving, quick to make, and always impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll appreciate how little effort goes into creating such a delicious result.
Easy to Make
One of the best things about ricotta cookies is their simplicity. The recipe typically requires just one bowl and a whisk or spatula. There’s no need to cream butter and sugar for minutes on end—just mix the wet ingredients, fold in the dry ones, and you’re ready to bake. Most recipes take under 30 minutes from start to finish, making them ideal for last-minute desserts.
Customizable to Your Taste
Ricotta cookies are a blank canvas. Want a citrusy twist? Add lemon or orange zest. Craving something chocolatey? Fold in mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder. Prefer a spiced version? A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg works beautifully. You can even make them festive with red and green sprinkles for the holidays or a dusting of powdered sugar for a winter wonderland vibe.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cookies are incredibly versatile. Serve them at a baby shower, pack them in lunchboxes, or bring them to a holiday party. They’re also great for gift-giving—place a dozen in a decorative tin with a ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful, homemade present. Because they stay fresh for several days, you can bake them ahead of time and enjoy stress-free hosting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make classic ricotta cookies, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese: Use whole-milk ricotta for the best texture and flavor. Avoid low-fat versions, as they can make the cookies dry.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure without weighing down the batter.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and a buttery flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Baking powder: Gives the cookies a slight lift.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
Optional Add-Ins
- Lemon or orange zest for a bright, citrusy note
- Chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts
- A pinch of salt to balance the sweetness
- Powdered sugar glaze or melted chocolate for topping
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
Ready to bake? Here’s a simple, foolproof method to make perfect ricotta cookies every time.
Prep Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. Make sure your butter is softened—this makes it easier to mix and ensures a smooth batter.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, softened butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy. If your ricotta is particularly wet, you can drain it slightly by placing it in a fine-mesh strainer for 10–15 minutes.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can make the cookies tough.
Add Mix-Ins (Optional)
If you’re adding chocolate chips, zest, or nuts, fold them in now. This is also the time to divide the batter if you want to make half lemon and half chocolate chip, for example.
Scoop and Bake
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. They should still look soft in the middle—that’s normal!
Cool and Glaze
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you’re adding a glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little milk or lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled cookies. Let the glaze set before serving.
Tips for Perfect Ricotta Cookies
Even simple recipes benefit from a few expert tips. Here’s how to ensure your ricotta cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Use Fresh, Quality Ricotta
Not all ricotta is created equal. Look for whole-milk ricotta in the dairy section—avoid the grainy, watery kind often found in tubs. Fresh ricotta from Italian markets or specialty stores will give you the best results.
Don’t Overbake
Ricotta cookies are meant to be soft and tender. Overbaking will dry them out. Remove them from the oven when the edges are just golden and the centers still look slightly underdone. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Let Them Cool Before Glazing
If you add glaze to warm cookies, it will melt and run off. Wait until they’re completely cool, or at least room temperature, before drizzling.
Store Properly
Keep ricotta cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw and glaze before serving.
Creative Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to get creative. Here are a few fun variations to inspire your next batch.
Lemon Ricotta Cookies
Add the zest of one lemon to the batter and use lemon juice in the glaze for a bright, refreshing twist. These are perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a decadent treat. The contrast between the soft cookie and melty chocolate is irresistible.
Spiced Ricotta Cookies
Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a warm, cozy flavor. These are especially lovely during the holiday season.
Double Chocolate Ricotta Cookies
Replace 2 tablespoons of flour with cocoa powder and add chocolate chips. The result is a rich, fudgy cookie that still maintains that signature soft texture.
Conclusion
Ricotta cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a comforting, nostalgic treat that brings joy with every bite. Their soft, cake-like texture, subtle sweetness, and endless customization options make them a standout in the world of cookies. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.
So why wait? Grab a tub of ricotta, preheat your oven, and give this recipe a try. Once you taste how delicious and easy they are, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner. Share them with friends, pack them in lunchboxes, or enjoy them with a cup of coffee—ricotta cookies are the perfect way to add a little sweetness to your day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat ricotta for these cookies?
It’s best to avoid low-fat ricotta, as it can make the cookies dry and less tender. Whole-milk ricotta provides the moisture and richness needed for the perfect texture.
How do I store ricotta cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
Can I make ricotta cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The cookies may be slightly more fragile, but they’ll still be delicious.
Why are my ricotta cookies flat?
Flat cookies can result from overmixing the batter or using ricotta that’s too wet. Make sure to mix just until combined and drain excess liquid from the ricotta if needed.
Can I freeze the batter before baking?
Absolutely! Scoop the batter onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to glaze ricotta cookies?
Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of milk or lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and let the glaze set before serving.