Name: Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese; ½ cup almond flour; ¼ cup powdered sugar; ½ tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp almond extract; 1 large egg; ½ tsp baking powder; Pinch of salt; ¼ cup sliced almonds (for topping); Extra powdered sugar (for dusting)

Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows are a delightful treat that captures the essence of simplicity and charm in every bite. These luscious cookies are not just easy to make, they also showcase the subtle flavors of almond and ricotta that blend seamlessly to create a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting afternoon tea, enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, or seeking a sweet snack to satisfy your cravings, these delightful almond cookies are the perfect companion.

The beauty of these Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows lies in their gentle sweetness and airy feel, making them a perfect dessert option for those who prefer treats that are not overly sweet. The almond flour gives the cookies a nutty flavor and delicate crumb, while the ricotta adds moisture and richness, resulting in a cookie that is as pleasing to the palate as it is visually appealing. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these cookies just as much as you love eating them.

Why You’ll Love This Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows

Delicate Flavor: The subtle blend of almond and ricotta delivers a lightly sweet flavor that everyone will love.
Easy to Make: This straightforward recipe requires minimal steps, making it perfect for bakers of any skill level.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a festive gathering, afternoon tea, or a quiet self-treat, these cookies fit any occasion.
Customizable: While the recipe is delicious as is, you can easily add your twist with different toppings or flavors.
Comforting Texture: With a soft and fluffy bite, these cookies provide a delightful mouthfeel that’s irresistible.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you embark on making these delicious Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows, it’s essential to have your kitchen and workspace organized. Begin by gathering all your ingredients—a cup of ricotta cheese, almond flour, powdered sugar, vanilla and almond extracts, a large egg, baking powder, and salt. Make sure to have sliced almonds ready for topping, as well as some extra powdered sugar for the finishing touch.

Equip yourself with the right tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. You will need a mixing bowl, a whisk or spatula for combining ingredients, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and an oven that you should preheat to 350°F (175°C). This preparation not only keeps you organized but also helps increase your efficiency in the kitchen, making the process an enjoyable one.

Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup almond flour
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp almond extract
1 large egg
½ tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
¼ cup sliced almonds (for topping)
Extra powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

To kick things off, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows bake evenly, giving them that lovely golden touch on the edges. Meanwhile, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper—this step is crucial as it prevents the cookies from sticking, allowing for easy cleanup and perfect presentation.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, almond flour, powdered sugar, both extracts, the egg, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir these ingredients together using a spatula or whisk until you achieve a smooth and uniform dough. Mixing well is important to ensure that the ricotta blends into the other ingredients, creating a cohesive texture that will bake beautifully.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, place generous spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave adequate space between each cookie for expansion. Once all the spoonfuls are on the sheet, take the time to gently flatten each cookie. This will help them bake evenly. Next, sprinkle the tops with sliced almonds, adding a lovely crunch and elegance to your treats.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they approach the 15-minute mark—you’re looking for a light golden color around the edges while ensuring the centers are set. The fragrance of almond will begin wafting through your kitchen, enhancing the excitement of what’s to come!

Step 5: Cool and Finish

Once baked to perfection, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This waiting period lets them firm up a bit before transferring to a cooling rack. After they’ve cooled slightly, dust them with extra powdered sugar for that final touch of sweetness. Your Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows are now ready to enjoy!

Variations

Protein: For a protein twist, try adding some finely chopped nuts or even mini chocolate chips to the dough for added texture and flavor.
Vegetables: For a unique twist, incorporating finely grated zucchini can add moisture and a subtle flavor without overwhelming the cookie.
Spices: Consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra layer of warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Ensure that your ricotta cheese is well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can make the cookies too soft.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of powdered sugar based on your personal preference!

Serving Suggestions

Pair these delightful cookies with a steaming cup of tea for a sophisticated afternoon treat.
For a more indulgent experience, serve them alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips

Let the cookies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
If making in advance, consider freezing the unbaked dough. Just scoop the dollops, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for future baking.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 120 per cookie
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 50mg

FAQs

Can I use different types of flour?

Absolutely! While almond flour gives these cookies a specific flavor, you can experiment with other nut flours or even all-purpose flour for a different texture.

How do I store the cookies?

Once completely cooled, store the Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made ahead of time. Just refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, then proceed with the baking instructions.

What is the best way to serve these cookies?

These cookies are delicious on their own, but consider serving them with a light dusting of powdered sugar or alongside fresh fruit and whipped cream for a special touch.

Conclusion

The Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows are truly a delightful dessert, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something spectacular. Their silky texture and delicate flavor make them a comforting choice for anytime snacking or special gatherings. As you slice into one of these cookies, the sheer softness is inviting, promising a burst of almond goodness with every bite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and toppings to mark your cozy kitchen adventures. Share your thoughts, feedback, or the personalized versions that you create in the comments below! Happy baking!