ricotta cheese cookie recipe
The Best ricotta cheese cookie recipe
What I appreciate most is how versatile they are. You can make them ahead and store them in an airtight container for days, or bake them fresh for maximum flavor. The ricotta adds a subtle sweetness and protein, which makes these cookies feel satisfying without the guilt of refined sugar overload. Plus, they’re easy to customize—swap in cinnamon or chocolate chips if you like, or even add a sprinkle of sea salt for a little contrast. Whether it’s a weekend baking project or just a lazy Sunday, these cookies are a reliable crowd-pleaser.

Classic Ricotta Cheese Cookies
Soft, chewy cookies infused with the creamy richness of ricotta, perfect for a quick treat or a sweet snack. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp lemon zest
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
2
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the egg, ricotta, and vanilla; mix until a soft dough forms. -
3
Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place 2 inches apart on the prepared sheet. -
4
Mix powdered sugar, butter, and lemon zest into a paste. Spread lightly over each cookie. -
5
Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Ricotta Cheese Cookies Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ricotta Cheese Cookies
1. What is the best way to store ricotta cheese cookies for freshness?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them on a parchment-lined tray for 1 hour before transferring to a bag or container. Refrigerate until ready to serve, then let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to restore softness.
2. Can I substitute any of the ingredients in this recipe, and if so, what are the best alternatives?
You can replace the ricotta with cottage cheese (use the same quantity) or mashed white beans (about 1 cup per 1 cup ricotta). For the butter, substitute with melted coconut oil or vegetable shortening. If you prefer a nutty flavor, add 1 teaspoon of almond extract or toasted chopped nuts to the dough. Avoid substituting the flour or sugar without adjusting quantities.
3. Why do my ricotta cookies turn out dense instead of tender?
Dense cookies often result from overmixing the dough or using too much liquid. Gently fold the ingredients together just until combined—overmixing develops gluten. If your cookies are still dense, try reducing the ricotta slightly (by about 2 tablespoons) or adding 1 extra tablespoon of flour. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can also help improve texture.
4. How do I ensure the cookies stay soft and moist after baking?
To keep them soft, let them cool on the baking sheet for just 5–10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Avoid fully cooling them, as this can cause them to harden. For extra moisture, brush the tops with a thin layer of melted butter or a light dusting of powdered sugar after baking. Store in an airtight container with a slice of bread or a damp paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture.
