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Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows Recipe

Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 30 reviews

Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows are delicate, fluffy cookies infused with almond and vanilla extracts, enriched with creamy ricotta cheese, and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. These pillows offer a light, tender texture with a subtle nutty flavor from slivered almonds, perfect for an elegant tea-time treat or a delightful dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 large egg

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Add-ins and Finishing

  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Butter or oil for greasing

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with butter or oil, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and egg. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended.
  3. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution and to remove any lumps.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the ricotta mixture, stirring gently to create a smooth, cohesive dough without overmixing.
  5. Add Almonds: Fold in the slivered almonds carefully, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the dough to add texture and flavor.
  6. Shape Dough: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the dough and shape them into small pillows or soft balls. Arrange these on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each for spreading during baking.
  7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pillows turn lightly golden on top and puffed up.
  8. Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the pillows to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to set properly.
  9. Dust and Serve: Once cooled, sprinkle the pillows generously with powdered sugar before serving for a sweet finishing touch.

Notes

  • For a crunchier texture, toast the slivered almonds lightly before folding them into the dough.
  • Make sure not to overmix the dough to maintain the pillows’ soft texture.
  • These pillows can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Use fresh ricotta cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: ricotta, almond pillows, soft cookies, almond extract, Italian dessert, baked pillows, ricotta cookies

Find it online: https://www.sanacooks.com/soft-ricotta-almond-pillows-recipe/