Italian Ricotta Cookies are a delightful treat that blend the softness of cake with the sweetness of classic homemade cookies. Light, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, these cookies have a distinct richness thanks to the addition of ricotta cheese. Originating from traditional Italian kitchens, they’re often found at family gatherings, weddings, and especially during the holidays—though once you try them, you’ll want to make them year-round.
What sets ricotta cookies apart is their versatility. They’re delicious plain, but often topped with a simple lemon or almond glaze and festive sprinkles. The ricotta doesn’t make them cheesy—it adds moisture and an irresistible texture that keeps them soft for days. If you’re looking for a cookie that feels homey, nostalgic, and a little different than the usual chocolate chip fare, this is it.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a foolproof recipe for classic Italian Ricotta Cookies, including tips for making them extra flavorful and storing them like a pro. Whether you’re baking for a party or just craving a sweet moment with a cup of coffee, these cookies are guaranteed to become a favorite in your rotation.
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Best Time to Eat & What to Pair It With
Ricotta cookies are perfect for afternoon snacks, holiday dessert spreads, or after-dinner treats with family and friends. They shine especially during the winter holidays but are simple enough for everyday baking.
Pair these cookies with a hot cappuccino, espresso, or a glass of cold milk for a comforting indulgence. If you’re feeling festive, serve them with a light dessert wine like Vin Santo or Moscato. For a twist, try flavoring the glaze with orange or almond extract to match the mood or season.
Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or chilled from the fridge, Italian Ricotta Cookies are a beautiful way to bring a little taste of Italy into your home—one soft, sweet bite at a time.
Ricotta cookies often stir debate among bakers about what makes them authentically Italian. Some claim that true Italian recipes use only fresh ricotta and lemon zest, while others insist on including almond extract or even a hint of anise for regional authenticity. In reality, the “right” recipe depends on which part of Italy you’re in—Sicilians, for instance, might add citrus notes, while Northern Italians prefer subtler, buttery versions.
Another controversy lies in texture. Some bakers prefer them crisp on the outside and soft in the middle, while others aim for a uniformly cake-like consistency. Traditionalists argue that the cookies should be more like miniature cakes than crunchy biscuits—an idea that surprises those expecting something like a sugar cookie.
Even the glaze is debated. Should it be thick and opaque, forming a sweet shell, or thin and glossy, just lightly coating the surface? These variations show how adaptable the recipe is—and how every Italian family adds its own unique twist, turning a simple cookie into a piece of heritage.
How to Make Italian Ricotta Cookies
Italian Ricotta Cookies Recipe Ingredients
For the Cookies:
2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup (250g) whole-milk ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for a citrusy flavor)
For the Glaze:
1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Sprinkles for decoration (optional)
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Step By Step How to Make Italian Ricotta Cookies
Prepare the Dough
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Mix dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add eggs, ricotta, and vanilla – Mix in the eggs, ricotta, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth.
Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
Bake the Cookies
Use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to drop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (or lemon juice) until smooth. Once the cookies have cooled, dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle it over them. Add sprinkles (optional) while the glaze is still wet.
Tips To Make Italian Ricotta Cookies
Use high-quality ricotta – Whole-milk ricotta gives the best texture. Drain excess liquid if it seems watery.
Chill the dough – If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes before scooping.
Adjust the glaze thickness – Add more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner one.
Store properly – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
How Many Calories Have Italian Ricotta Cookies
Calories: ~110
Carbs: ~15g
Fat: ~5g
Protein: ~2g
Sugar: ~8g
Serving Suggestions
Ricotta cookies are best served freshly glazed, arranged on a platter dusted lightly with powdered sugar for a bakery-style presentation. If you want to elevate their look, drizzle half the batch with chocolate or lemon icing for a mix of flavors and colors. Serve them with afternoon tea, espresso, or as part of a holiday dessert table.
For gatherings, consider packaging them in small gift boxes or wrapping them in parchment paper tied with twine—they make elegant and heartfelt homemade gifts. Their soft texture ensures they travel well, making them ideal for potlucks, picnics, or as a hostess offering.
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, separating layers with parchment to preserve their glaze. You can also freeze them (without glaze) and add icing later for a fresh finish. When reheated briefly, they regain that just-baked softness that makes them irresistible.
Final Thoughts
Italian Ricotta Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a slice of family tradition passed down through generations. Their simplicity, combined with a soft texture and subtle flavor, makes them a timeless favorite across Italian households. Every bite carries a sense of warmth and nostalgia, reminding you of a grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and the scent of fresh lemon zest.
While easy to make, these cookies embody the essence of Italian cooking: quality ingredients, attention to detail, and a love for sharing. You don’t need elaborate tools or hours of work—just a little ricotta, sugar, flour, and care. The result is a treat that feels both luxurious and homemade.
In the end, these cookies are proof that the most comforting desserts are often the simplest ones. Whether you bake them for the holidays or just to brighten your week, Italian Ricotta Cookies will always bring a touch of sweetness and tradition to your table.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.