These soft and fluffy cookies, infused with creamy ricotta cheese and a hint of vanilla, are perfect for the holiday season. They're topped with a festive glaze and colorful sprinkles!
Ingredients
Cookies:
- 1cup(226g) ricotta cheese
- 1/2cup(113g) unsalted butter
- softened
- 1cup(200g) granulated sugar
- 1large egg
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 2cups(240g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2tspbaking powder
- 1/2tspbaking soda
- 1/4tspsalt
Glaze:
- 1cup(120g) powdered sugar
- 2tbsp–3 milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2tspvanilla extract
- Christmas-colored sprinkles
- for decoration
How to make Ricotta Christmas Cookies
Preparation:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and ricotta cheese until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Make the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing for softer cookies.
Bake the Cookies:
Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be soft.
Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust the milk for a thicker or thinner glaze.
Dip the tops of each cooled cookie into the glaze, then place back on the wire rack. Immediately add sprinkles before the glaze sets.
Tips & Tricks
For the best ricotta Christmas cookies, use whole milk ricotta and make sure to drain any excess liquid for a fluffy texture. Cream softened butter with sugar well, then avoid overmixing when you add the dry ingredients to keep the cookies light. Cool the cookies completely before glazing so the glaze sets properly, and add sprinkles immediately so they stick. For a flavor twist, try adding a hint of almond extract or lemon zest to the glaze. These cookies store well in an airtight container for a few days, making them perfect for holiday gifting or parties!
