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Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 136 reviews

Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows are delicate, fluffy baked treats combining creamy ricotta cheese with the fragrant flavors of almond and vanilla. These lightly sweetened pillows feature a tender crumb studded with crunchy slivered almonds and are finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, making them perfect for afternoon tea or a light dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds

For Baking

  • Butter or oil for greasing the baking sheet

For Garnish

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: 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 them thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
  3. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
  4. Combine Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the ricotta mixture, stirring gently until a smooth, cohesive dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the pillows tender.
  5. Add Almonds: Fold in the slivered almonds carefully to evenly distribute the crunchy texture throughout the dough.
  6. Shape Pillows: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and shape them into small pillows or balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving adequate space between each to allow for spreading during baking.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pillows have puffed up slightly and turned a light golden color on top.
  8. Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the pillows to cool completely on a wire rack, which helps them set and maintain their texture.
  9. Dust with Sugar and Serve: Once completely cool, dust the pillows generously with powdered sugar to add a sweet finishing touch. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Ensure the ricotta cheese is well drained to avoid a soggy dough.
  • You can substitute slivered almonds with chopped walnuts or pecans if preferred.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Store the almonds pillows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Do not overbake to maintain their soft texture; watch for light golden color as a sign of doneness.

Keywords: ricotta pillows, almond pillows, soft ricotta cookies, almond flavored treats, baked ricotta snacks

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