If you’re looking for a cookie that’s soft, sweet, and melts in your mouth, look no further than Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies with Almond Glaze. These cookies combine the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the nutty flavor of almond, making them a holiday favorite. Perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season, these cookies are sure to become a tradition in your home too!

Why Ricotta Cookies Are So Special

What makes ricotta cookies stand out is their soft and pillowy texture. Unlike traditional crisp Christmas cookies, ricotta adds moisture to the dough, resulting in cookies that stay tender for days. Plus, the addition of almond glaze brings a subtle sweetness that complements the mild, creamy flavor of the ricotta. These cookies are perfect for anyone who loves a dessert that’s not too sweet but still rich in flavor.

Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies

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• Author: KitchenMia
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Print Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

These Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies are a beautiful addition to your holiday dessert table. The light and fluffy texture of the ricotta paired with the rich almond glaze creates a perfectly balanced bite. Each cookie is delicately sweet, with a melt-in-your-mouth softness that’s irresistible. The almond glaze adds a festive touch with its sweet, nutty flavor, complemented by colorful sprinkles for a pop of holiday cheer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup of unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon of almond extract
• ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract

For the almond glaze:

• 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon of almond extract
• 2–3 tablespoons of milk

Ingredient Tips:

• Ricotta: Use fresh ricotta if possible. The creamier the ricotta, the softer the cookies will be.
• Almond extract: Don’t skip this! It adds a wonderful depth of flavor to both the dough and the glaze.
• Unsalted butter: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until fluffy. This will take about 2 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Mix in the ricotta, vanilla, and almond extract until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
7. Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool completely before applying the glaze.

Making the Almond Glaze

The almond glaze is what truly elevates these cookies. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk. The consistency should be smooth but not too runny.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies, using a spoon or piping bag.
3. Let the glaze set for about 10 minutes before serving or storing

Notes

Glaze Variations:

• Citrus twist: Add lemon or orange zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: If you’re a chocolate lover, add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top of the glaze for extra indulgence.

Tips for Perfect Ricotta Cookies

• Chill the dough: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it for 15 minutes before baking to make handling easier.
• Use a cookie scoop: This ensures even-sized cookies and consistent baking.
• Don’t overbake: These cookies are best when they are just lightly golden around the edges.

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your cookies soft and fresh:

• At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Just freeze them without the glaze, and glaze them once thawed.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Pairing Soft Ricotta Cookies with Beverages

When enjoying Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies with Almond Glaze, the right beverage can elevate the experience, balancing the creamy, delicate flavors of the cookies. Here are some delicious pairing options to consider:

1. Coffee

The mild sweetness and creamy texture of ricotta cookies pair beautifully with the rich, bitter notes of coffee. Whether you prefer an espresso, cappuccino, or a simple black coffee, the contrasting flavors work in harmony to create a delightful treat.

2. Tea

For a more subtle pairing, try serving these cookies with tea. Earl Grey or Chamomile tea complement the almond glaze’s nutty flavor, while a herbal tea like Peppermint provides a refreshing contrast.

3. Milk

For a classic and comforting option, a glass of cold milk brings out the creaminess of the ricotta in the cookies. It’s a nostalgic and simple choice, perfect for enjoying during the holiday season.

4. Dessert Wine

If you’re feeling festive, pair these cookies with a sweet dessert wine such as Moscato or Vin Santo. The wine’s sweetness enhances the almond glaze without overpowering the delicate flavors of the cookies.

5. Hot Chocolate

For a cozy winter pairing, serve the cookies with a mug of hot chocolate. The rich, chocolaty flavors contrast beautifully with the soft, nutty sweetness of the cookies, making for a comforting holiday treat.

6. Almond Liqueur

If you’re serving these cookies after dinner, try pairing them with Amaretto. The almond liqueur echoes the flavor of the almond glaze, creating a seamless and decadent combination.

With these beverage pairings, your Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies will be even more enjoyable, adding a perfect touch to your holiday gatherings.

Baking Tips for Beginners: Perfecting Soft Ricotta Cookies

Baking Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies is easy and rewarding, but a few helpful tips can make all the difference, especially for beginners. Here’s how to achieve the perfect batch:

1. Avoid Over-Mixing the Dough

• Why it matters: Over-mixing your dough can lead to tough, dense cookies instead of soft, fluffy ones. When you mix the flour into the wet ingredients, stir just until combined to keep the dough light.
• How to do it: Use a spatula or spoon to gently fold the flour mixture into the dough. Stop mixing as soon as no dry flour remains.

2. Ensuring the Perfect Bake

• Check oven temperature: An oven thermometer can help you make sure your oven is at the correct temperature. Even a slight variation can affect the texture of the cookies.
• Bake time: Keep a close eye on the cookies. They should be slightly golden around the edges but still pale on top. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
• Cool on a wire rack: Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy on the bottom.

3. Tips for Shaping Cookies Consistently

• Use a cookie scoop: For even-sized cookies, use a small cookie scoop. This helps them bake uniformly and look neat on your cookie tray.
• Chill the dough: If the dough is sticky, chilling it for 15-20 minutes will make it easier to handle and shape.
• Flatten slightly: Gently press down the dough balls with the back of a spoon to help the cookies bake evenly and achieve a smooth surface for glazing.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to bake a perfect batch of Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies every time!

Italian Traditions and Holiday Baking: The Joy of Cookies

Baking is an integral part of Italian culture, especially during the festive season. Italian holiday baking is rich with tradition and flavors, with cookies playing a central role in celebrations. Let’s explore how Italians celebrate with cookies and the special place ricotta cookies hold in their holiday traditions.

1. How Italians Celebrate with Cookies

• Festive Gatherings: During the holidays, Italian families come together to celebrate with festive meals, often featuring an array of homemade cookies. These gatherings provide an opportunity to share family recipes passed down through generations, fostering a sense of unity and tradition.
• Cookie Varieties: Italians create a wide variety of cookies for the holidays, each with its unique flavor and significance. Common types include biscotti, pignoli, and struffoli. Each cookie is often made with care, showcasing the baker’s skill and the family’s heritage.
• Cultural Significance: Cookies are not just treats; they symbolize love, sharing, and celebration. Italians believe that the act of baking and sharing cookies brings good fortune and joy to the family and the community.

2. Ricotta Cookies and Their Role in Italian Holiday Traditions

• A Festive Favorite: Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies are a cherished holiday treat in many Italian households. Their rich, creamy texture and delightful flavor make them a beloved choice for celebrations.
• Tradition of Baking: Ricotta cookies are often baked during Christmas, and their preparation is a family affair. Children and adults alike enjoy the process of mixing, shaping, and decorating these delicious cookies, making it a fun and meaningful tradition.
• Symbol of Prosperity: The use of ricotta cheese in these cookies is not just for flavor; it also holds cultural significance. Ricotta, being a staple in many Italian desserts, represents abundance and prosperity during the festive season.
• Sharing with Others: Italians often gift trays of ricotta cookies to friends, neighbors, and family, spreading joy and goodwill during the holidays. This act of sharing reinforces community bonds and showcases the spirit of generosity that defines Italian culture.

In conclusion, cookies, especially ricotta cookies, are an essential part of Italian holiday traditions. They bring families together, celebrate cultural heritage, and add sweetness to festive gatherings. Embracing these traditions through baking creates cherished memories and keeps the spirit of Italian culture alive.

Ricotta and Its Role in Baking: The Secret to Softness and Flavor

Ricotta cheese is a beloved ingredient in many baking recipes, particularly in Italian desserts like Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies. Its unique properties enhance the texture and flavor of baked goods. Let’s dive into how ricotta adds moisture and softness to recipes and explore alternative ingredients for those who may not have it on hand.

1. How Ricotta Adds Moisture and Softness

• High Moisture Content: One of the standout features of ricotta cheese is its high moisture content. When incorporated into cookie dough, it helps create a soft, tender texture that melts in your mouth. This moisture is especially beneficial in recipes where a delicate crumb is desired.
• Fat Content: Ricotta contains a moderate amount of fat, which contributes to the richness of baked goods. This fat enhances flavor while providing a creamy mouthfeel, resulting in cookies that are not only soft but also deliciously satisfying.
• Binding Properties: Ricotta acts as a binding agent in baking. Its creamy consistency helps hold the ingredients together, preventing the cookies from becoming dry or crumbly. This characteristic is particularly important in recipes where a light, airy texture is essential.
• Neutral Flavor: Ricotta has a mild flavor that allows other ingredients to shine. It enhances sweetness without overpowering the overall taste, making it a versatile addition to various baked goods.

2. Alternative Ingredients for Ricotta in Baking

If you find yourself without ricotta cheese, several alternative ingredients can be used in baking:

• Cottage Cheese: A popular substitute, cottage cheese has a similar texture and moisture content. Blend it until smooth to mimic the creamy consistency of ricotta. This works well in cookies, pancakes, and cakes.
• Cream Cheese: While richer than ricotta, cream cheese can be a suitable alternative. Mix it with a bit of milk or yogurt to lighten its density, making it a good replacement for ricotta in desserts.
• Greek Yogurt: Known for its thick texture, Greek yogurt adds moisture and tanginess to baked goods. Use plain Greek yogurt in equal amounts to ricotta, and enjoy the added protein and creamy texture.
• Mascarpone: This Italian cream cheese offers a rich flavor and smooth texture, making it a fantastic substitute for ricotta in desserts. Use it in equal quantities for a luscious result.
• Silken Tofu: For a dairy-free option, silken tofu can be blended until smooth and used as a substitute for ricotta. It adds moisture and a subtle flavor, perfect for cookies and cakes.

FAQs

1. How long do these cookies last?

When stored in an airtight container, ricotta cookies stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

2. Can I use a ricotta substitute?

Yes, mascarpone can be used, but it will result in a slightly different texture and flavor.

3. Why is my glaze too thin?

If your glaze is too runny, simply add more powdered sugar to thicken it. If it’s too thick, add more milk.

4. Can I add other flavors to the glaze?

Absolutely! Citrus zest or even a hint of cinnamon can be mixed into the glaze for added flavor.

5. Are there gluten-free options?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

6. Can I make these cookies in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze the dough ahead of time. Bake when needed, and glaze after they’ve cooled.

Conclusion

Soft Ricotta Italian Christmas Cookies with Almond Glaze are the perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. The softness of the ricotta, combined with the sweetness of the almond glaze, creates a cookie that’s both rich and light at the same time. These cookies are not only easy to make, but they also bring a bit of Italian tradition to your holiday table. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the baking process!