Ricotta Cheese Cookies with Lemon Glaze Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that’s as tender as a cloud and bursting with fresh, zesty flavors, then this Ricotta Cheese Cookies with Lemon Glaze Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. These cookies are unbelievably soft, thanks to the ricotta cheese, and the bright lemon glaze on top adds a perfect sweet-tart finish. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon tea or simply craving a homemade cookie that feels special, these lemony delights will have you hooked from the first bite. Let me take you through every step of this charming recipe that combines simplicity and elegance in one batch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Ricotta Cheese Cookies with Lemon Glaze Recipe plays a vital role in creating that dreamy texture and fresh flavor. The mix is simple but thoughtfully balanced to give you soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a glowing lemon finish.

• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons all purpose flour: The foundation of our cookie, offering structure and lightness.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Adds tenderness for that delicate crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: A leavening agent that helps these cookies rise just right.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and citrusy flavors to come.
• 6 tablespoons butter: Brings richness and a buttery melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• 3 tablespoons ricotta cheese: The star of the show, making the cookies wonderfully moist and soft.
• 6 tablespoons sugar: Just enough to balance the tang and add sweetness without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Infuses the dough with fresh lemon brightness.
• 1/2 lemon zest: Adds essential oils and aromatic complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract: A touch of warmth and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for the glaze): To create that smooth, sweet lemon glaze.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for the glaze): Perfectly balances sweetness with citrus punch.
• 1 tablespoon sprinkles (optional): For a playful, colorful finish on top of the glaze.

How to Make Ricotta Cheese Cookies with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl. This ensures your leavening and flavors are evenly distributed for perfectly balanced cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Ricotta, and Sugar

In a separate, larger bowl, beat the butter, ricotta cheese, and sugar until creamy and luscious. This step is essential for building that tender and moist texture that ricotta adds so beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Citrus and Extract

Fold in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, bright lemon zest, and your choice of vanilla or almond extract. These ingredients introduce layers of vibrancy and warmth to your cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, careful not to overmix. This helps keep the cookies light and soft once baked.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl and pop it into the freezer for 20 minutes. Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to shape and allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the chilled dough and roll it into 12 equal-sized balls. Arrange them spaced evenly on the sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges just start to firm up.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, allow your cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. Whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth, then spoon the glaze carefully over each cookie. Add sprinkles if you want a little extra cheerfulness!

How to Serve Ricotta Cheese Cookies with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of extra lemon zest over the glaze works wonders to elevate the citrus aroma. If you want a little crunch contrast, finely chopped toasted almonds or pistachios sprinkled on top create a lovely texture and nutty complement.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, particularly green or herbal blends that enhance the lemon notes. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a small bowl of fresh berries to add a pop of juicy sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these delightful Ricotta Cheese Cookies with Lemon Glaze Recipe stacked on a pretty cake stand for a charming centerpiece at your next brunch or gathering. You can also package them in a decorative box tied with a ribbon as a thoughtful homemade gift that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cookies stay wonderfully fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week. For longer storage, pop them in the refrigerator where they can last up to two weeks without losing their softness.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies far into the future, freeze cooled cookies in a zip-lock bag for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature and the cookie will taste almost freshly baked.

Reheating

Warm your cookies slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a low oven for 5 minutes. This refreshes their tender texture and makes the lemon glaze glow again like it just came out of the freezer.

FAQs

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

Ricotta cheese provides a uniquely soft and moist texture, but you can try using cream cheese or mascarpone as alternatives. Keep in mind that this might change the cookie’s tenderness and flavor slightly.

Is it necessary to chill the dough?

Chilling is important because it firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helps the flavors meld. Skipping this step may cause the cookies to spread too much while baking.

Can I use a different citrus instead of lemon?

Absolutely! Orange or lime juice and zest can be amazing substitutions, offering a different but equally refreshing twist to these cookies.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

Cornstarch softens the cookie texture, so if you don’t have any, you can substitute with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or even replace it with a little extra flour, though the texture might be slightly less tender.

How long do these cookies last once glazed?

Once glazed, these cookies are best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. Keep them covered at room temperature to prevent the glaze from drying out.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a cookie that feels light, fresh, and indulgent all at once, and this Ricotta Cheese Cookies with Lemon Glaze Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s a recipe to treasure and share, whether it’s a casual treat or a lovely gift. So next time you want to surprise yourself or a loved one with something truly delicious, grab your ingredients and bake up this sunshine-filled batch. Happy baking!

Print