Introduction
Indulge your taste buds with these delightful Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows! Soft and fluffy, these treats blend the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the nutty flavor of almond flour, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for an afternoon snack, a delightful dessert, or even a sweet addition to a brunch spread, these pillows are sure to become a favorite in your home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 pillows
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help our pillows bake evenly and prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, almond flour, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, baking powder, and salt. Stir until everything is well blended into a creamy mixture.
- Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, gently mixing until a soft dough forms. You want the dough to be tender and pliable, making it easier to shape.
- Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking and scoop out small portions of dough. Shape each portion into little pillows or balls, whatever you prefer!
- Place these dough pillows onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about an inch apart to allow for a little spread during baking.
- To add a touch of elegance, gently press a few sliced almonds onto the top of each pillow for decoration and that delightful crunch.
- Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and inviting.
- Once baked, remove the pillows from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This way, they can maintain their soft texture.
- Finally, once cooled, dust the beauties with powdered sugar, giving them a sweet finish that’s sure to impress your guests!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize these pillows! You can toss in mini chocolate chips, or swap out the almond extract for citrus zest for a refreshing twist. Just remember to keep an eye on the baking time, as variations may cause them to bake faster or slower. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best texture!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of these Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows relies on a gentle hand during the mixing and shaping phases. Overworking the dough can create denser pillows instead of the light and airy texture we crave. Be delicate and use a light touch, and your patience will reward you with a delightful treat!
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just reshape and bake when you’re ready to enjoy!
How should I store the leftovers? Keep any uneaten pillows in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, and simply pop them in the oven to warm up when a craving hits!
Conclusion
These Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows are not just desserts; they’re a celebration of flavor and comfort in every bite. Easy to whip up and perfectly lovely for sharing, this delightful recipe is bound to warm the hearts of everyone who tries it. So preheat your oven and let the baking magic begin — your new favorite treat awaits!