Italian Ricotta Cookies Recipe

Cookies:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt for 20 seconds. Set aside.

2. In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip together the butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until pale and fluffy.

3. Scrape down sides and bottom of bowl occasionally throughout the entire mixing process.

4. Mix in the ricotta and vanilla extract, then blend in eggs one at a time.

5. Set the mixer on low speed, then slowly add in the flour mixture and mix until combined.

6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, then chill for 2 hours or up to 2 days.

7. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F during the last 20 minutes of the dough chilling.

8. Scoop the chilled dough out 1 tablespoon at a time, then shape them into balls.

9. Drop the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

10. Bake in the oven for 12 to 14 minutes until the underside of the cookies are golden.

11. Cool on the baking sheet several minutes, then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Glaze:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, lemon juice or almond extract, vanilla, and 4 tablespoon milk until smooth. Add in more milk 1 teaspoon at a time to thin as needed.

2. Dip the tops of cookies in glaze, then return them to the wire rack.

3. Add the sprinkles at once, then allow the glaze to set at room temperature.

4. Serve, and enjoy!