Dessert

Almond Ricotta Cookies Recipe

ByElena Hart October 28, 2025October 28, 2025

Introduction

These Almond Ricotta Cookies are soft, tender, and lightly flavored with almond extract, making them a delightful treat for any time of day. With a creamy ricotta base and a sweet almond glaze, they offer a unique twist on classic cookies that everyone will love.

The image shows seven soft round cookies arranged on a white plate with a simple blue floral pattern. Each cookie has one layer made of pale dough that is thick and slightly puffy. The top of each cookie is covered with a smooth, white glaze that drips slightly down the sides. On top of the glaze, there are thinly sliced almond pieces, scattered evenly across each cookie. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with a red and white checkered cloth visible in the background on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar

½ cup butter, softened (one stick)
1 cup ricotta cheese

1 large egg
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon almond extract
Sliced almonds for decorating (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Line a baking pan with a baking mat or parchment paper; set aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium/high to cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in the ricotta, egg, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract, mixing until combined. Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.

Step 4: Cover the cookie dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Step 5: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and use a cookie scoop to portion about a tablespoon of batter. Roll into balls and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the bottoms start to brown slightly. The cookies won’t change color much overall. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract in a small bowl. Hold each cooled cookie upside down and dip the top into the glaze. Return to the wire rack to dry completely. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a more pronounced almond flavor, increase the almond extract in the glaze slightly, but avoid adding too much to prevent bitterness.
If you prefer, substitute ricotta with mascarpone for an even richer texture.

Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
To make these gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but note texture may vary slightly.

Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator up to one week. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm, but the glaze may soften slightly.

How to Serve

Seven round cookies are placed on a white plate with a simple blue floral pattern, all set on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has two layers: a soft, light yellow base with a slightly rough texture, topped with a smooth white icing layer that covers the top evenly. On top of the icing, thin almond slices with light brown edges are scattered, adding a slight crunch and contrast in color. The cookies are arranged close together in a casual circular form. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, chilling the dough for at least two hours helps develop flavor and makes it easier to handle. You can also freeze the dough balls before baking for up to one month; thaw before baking.

Can I omit the glaze?

Absolutely. The cookies are delicious on their own without glaze, especially if you sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for added crunch and flavor.