Butter Ricotta Cookies: How Long Do They Stay Fresh?

Italian ricotta cookies are soft, tender, and delicious. They are perfect for the holidays and can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature or a week in the refrigerator. If you want to freeze them, it is best to do so before adding the glaze. The unglazed cookies can be arranged in a single layer on a baking sheet, covered, and placed in the freezer for up to two months.

The cookies themselves are sturdy and store well, but it is recommended to glaze only the cookies that you are serving or about to serve.

How to store butter ricotta cheese cookies

Butter ricotta cheese cookies are best stored in an airtight container. If you want to layer them, it is best to place parchment paper between the cookies. These cookies will keep in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. However, it is recommended to wait to add the icing, as it may wrinkle over time.

How to freeze butter ricotta cheese cookies

To freeze butter ricotta cheese cookies, it's best to freeze them before adding the glaze. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover them. Put them in the freezer for a few hours or overnight. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag and store them for up to two months.

When you're ready to eat the cookies, thaw them in the refrigerator, then finish them with the glaze according to the recipe.

How to make the glaze for butter ricotta cheese cookies

The glaze for butter ricotta cheese cookies is a simple mixture of confectioners' sugar, milk, and lemon juice. Some recipes also call for adding butter, vanilla extract, or almond extract to the glaze. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make the glaze:

• Whisk the confectioners' sugar: Start by whisking the confectioners' sugar in a bowl to break up any large lumps. This ensures a smooth and lump-free glaze.
• Add liquid ingredients: To the whisked sugar, add the desired amount of milk, lemon juice, and/or melted butter. You can adjust the amount of milk to achieve your preferred consistency for the glaze.
• Stir until smooth: Continue stirring the mixture until you achieve a smooth and spreadable consistency. If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can add more confectioners' sugar.
• Add flavouring (optional): For a flavoured glaze, you can add a few drops of vanilla or almond extract. This step is optional, but it can enhance the flavour of your cookies.
• Spoon or spread the glaze: Once your glaze is ready, you can spoon it over the cookies or spread it with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
• Add decorations (optional): If desired, you can decorate the glazed cookies with coloured sprinkles, sanding sugar, or other toppings of your choice.
• Let the glaze set: Allow the glaze to harden and set for about 2 hours before serving the cookies. This step ensures that the glaze dries and doesn't smudge or stick to packaging.

By following these steps, you can create a delicious and visually appealing glaze for your butter ricotta cheese cookies. Feel free to experiment with different extracts and decorations to customise your cookies to your taste!

How to prevent butter ricotta cheese cookies from spreading too much

Ricotta cheese cookies are soft, moist, and tender, but they can spread too much while baking. Here are some tips to prevent that:

Chilling the Cookie Dough

How to adapt the recipe for people who don't like almond extract

Ricotta cookies are a delightful treat, but what if you're not a fan of almond extract? Not to worry, there are plenty of ways to adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences! Here are some tips and tricks to make these cookies perfect for anyone who doesn't enjoy the flavour of almond extract:

• Omit the almond extract altogether: The most straightforward approach is to simply leave out the almond extract from the recipe. This will result in a more subtle flavour, allowing the other ingredients to shine through.
• Replace with vanilla extract: If you still want a hint of sweetness, try substituting the almond extract with an equal amount of vanilla extract. Vanilla has a milder flavour that can enhance the other ingredients without being overpowering.
• Experiment with other extracts: Feel free to get creative and experiment with different extracts to find a flavour that suits your taste. For example, you could try using orange or lemon extract to add a citrusy twist to your cookies.
• Enhance with spices: Spices can be a great way to add depth of flavour to your cookies without relying on extracts. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ground ginger to the dough for a warm and inviting aroma.
• Focus on the ricotta: Ricotta cheese has a mild, creamy flavour that can stand on its own. By emphasising the ricotta and reducing the amount of extract used, you can create a more subtle and delicate cookie.
• Add mix-ins: Include some mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to your cookie dough. This will not only enhance the flavour but also add texture and make your cookies even more irresistible!

Remember, baking is all about personal preference and creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe to suit your taste buds. Happy baking!

Frequently asked questions