Fluffy Ricotta Cookies Dusted

Fluffy Ricotta Cookies are a delightful Italian-inspired treat that combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the sweet, buttery goodness of cookies. Light, airy, and perfectly dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a simple indulgence with coffee. Here’s how to make this irresistibly soft dessert at home.

Why You’ll Love Fluffy Ricotta Cookies

1. Soft and Airy Texture: The ricotta cheese ensures the cookies remain moist and tender.
2. Easy to Make: Perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite flavors like lemon zest, almond extract, or vanilla for a unique twist.
4. A Festive Touch: The powdered sugar dusting gives these cookies a holiday-ready finish.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: Zest of 1 lemon or orange for added flavor

For the Topping:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Incorporate Ricotta and Egg
   Add the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and optional zest. Mix until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to maintain the cookies’ fluffy texture.
6. Scoop and Bake
   Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop rounded dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool and Dust
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, dust generously with powdered sugar.

Tips for Perfect Ricotta Cookies

• Use High-Quality Ricotta: Choose a smooth, creamy ricotta for the best texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies to ensure they remain soft and moist.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. These cookies also freeze beautifully!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
• Include them in a festive cookie platter alongside classic sugar cookies and chocolate chip cookies.
• Drizzle a light glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for an extra layer of sweetness.

Why These Cookies Are a Must-Try

Fluffy Ricotta Cookies are a crowd-pleasing dessert that bridges simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or craving a sweet snack, these cookies are bound to impress. The creamy ricotta ensures a texture like no other, and the powdered sugar dusting adds just the right touch of sweetness.

Serving and Storage Tips for Fluffy Ricotta Cookies

Serving Tips

1. Perfect for Any Occasion:
   These cookies make an excellent addition to a holiday dessert spread, a tea party, or a casual get-together. Serve them on a decorative platter with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
2. Pairing Suggestions:
   • Beverages: Serve with coffee, espresso, or tea for a cozy combination.
   • Dessert Pairings: Pair with fresh fruits like strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.
   • After-Dinner Treat: Offer them alongside a scoop of vanilla or lemon gelato for a delightful dessert pairing.
3. Add a Glaze:
   For a more indulgent presentation, drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a hint of lemon juice over the cookies. Let the glaze set before serving.

Storage Tips

1. Room Temperature:
   Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their soft texture, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
2. Refrigeration:
   If you live in a warm climate or want to extend their freshness, store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
3. Freezing:
   • Freezing Baked Cookies: Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. Store for up to 3 months.
   • Thawing: When ready to enjoy, remove the desired number of cookies from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature. For a fresh-from-the-oven feel, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes.
4. Freezing the Dough:
   • Scoop the dough into individual portions and freeze on a baking sheet until solid. Store the frozen dough balls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
   • Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Fluffy Ricotta Cookies at their best, whether fresh out of the oven or saved for later indulgence.

1. Can I substitute ricotta cheese with another ingredient?
Yes, if you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese or mascarpone. However, the texture and flavor may differ slightly, as ricotta provides a unique creaminess and lightness to the cookies.

2. Why are my ricotta cookies spreading too much during baking?
Excess spreading can happen if your butter or ricotta is too warm. Make sure to use softened, but not melted, butter and chill the cookie dough for 15-30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

3. Can I add flavors or toppings to these cookies?
Absolutely! You can add lemon or orange zest, almond extract, or even chocolate chips to the dough for extra flavor. Toppings like a light glaze, festive sprinkles, or a drizzle of melted chocolate also enhance the cookies beautifully.

4. How do I keep the cookies soft and fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them. To retain moisture, place a piece of parchment paper between layers and add a slice of bread to the container, which will help prevent the cookies from drying out.

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