Italian Cookie
Italian Cookies are tender, sweet treats with a rich ricotta flavor, perfect for holidays or casual gatherings, offering a delightful combination of buttery and cheesy notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together sugar and butter or oleo.
- Add well-beaten eggs to the mixture.
- Add Ricotta cheese and vanilla extract.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
- Do not make the dough stiff.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes, approximately 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted when creaming with sugar. If Ricotta is too watery, drain it before adding to the mixture. You can substitute half of the butter with applesauce for a healthier twist. If you prefer a flavored cookie, try adding lemon or almond extract instead of vanilla. For extra flavor, consider incorporating chocolate chips or nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian cookies are delicious on their own but can be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of gelato for a simple dessert. Consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Cookie contains roughly 40 calories, with 0g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 578mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticking too much, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help firm it up, making it easier to drop onto the cookie sheet. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the cookies tough.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).