Italian Ricotta Christmas Cookies

Italian Ricotta Christmas Cookies are a timeless holiday classic known for their soft, pillowy texture and delicate sweetness. Thanks to creamy ricotta cheese, these cookies stay incredibly moist, making them perfect for baking ahead during the busy Christmas season. Lightly glazed and finished with festive red, green, and white sprinkles, they bring instant holiday charm to any cookie tray.

Unlike crisp sugar cookies, Italian ricotta cookies are meant to be tender and cake-like. Traditionally made for Christmas celebrations and family gatherings, they’ve been passed down through generations in Italian kitchens. Over time, the simple glaze and colorful sprinkles became a signature finish, symbolizing joy and celebration.

Meanwhile, a touch of vanilla and citrus zest keeps the flavor balanced and comforting. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, gifting homemade treats, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon with tea, these Italian Ricotta Christmas Cookies deliver classic flavor, beautiful texture, and reliable results every time.

Recipe Yield: 36 cookies

INGREDIENTS

1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tsp fresh orange zest
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp fine sea salt

For the Glaze:
1½ cups powdered sugar
2–3 Tbsp whole milk
½ tsp vanilla extract

For Decorating:
Red, green, and white small round Christmas sprinkles

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the dough base:
In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add the ricotta cheese and mix until smooth and creamy.

2. Add wet ingredients:
Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest until fully incorporated and silky.

3. Combine dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

4. Chill the dough:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for 45 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

5. Bake the cookies:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Scoop 1½ Tbsp portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 in apart. Bake for 12–14 minutes, until set but not browned. Cool completely.

6. Glaze and decorate:
Whisk glaze ingredients until smooth. Dip the tops of cooled cookies into the glaze, then immediately sprinkle with festive sprinkles. Allow glaze to set fully before serving.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use whole-milk ricotta: Full-fat ricotta creates a richer texture and ensures soft, pillowy cookies every time.
• Do not overbake: These cookies should stay pale. Slightly underbaked centers keep them tender and moist.
• Glaze while cookies are cool: This helps the glaze set smoothly and keeps sprinkles bright and defined.