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3.63 from 35 votes

Lemon Ricotta Cookie Recipe

These Italian Lemon Ricotta Cookie Recipe is so deliciously fluffy, soft and moist. They have a cake-like consistency and are perfect for any occasion! Top them with your favorite sprinkles for any holiday. Everyone will be asking you for the recipe!
Prep Time1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Italian
Servings: 30 cookies
Author: Kathryn Donangelo

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter; softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large whole egg
  • 7.5 oz. whole or part skim ricotta
  • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 2 tsp. lemon zest (zest from one whole lemon)
  • 3/4 tsp. almond extract
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • sprinkles; optional

For the glaze

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3-4 Tbsp. milk; whole or low-fat
  • 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp. almond extract

Instructions

  • In a large bowl with an electric mixer or a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
  • Add the egg, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract and almond extract. Mix until all of the ingredients are combined and smooth. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in 3 increments. Be sure to mix together in between each increment. Just mix until combined- do not over-mix.
  • Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight.
  • When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silpat mats. Using a mini ice cream to scoop the cookie dough balls or measure out 2 tablespoons of dough. Place cookies on the baking sheet 1 1/2 inches apart. Bake for 11-12 minutes. The cookies will not turn golden brown but the bottoms will.
  • Let the cookies cool for a few minutes and place them on a cooling rack.
  • When the cookies are completely cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk and extracts until smooth. Spoon the glaze on top of each cookie and top with sprinkles (optional). Let the cookies set for a few minutes and enjoy!