Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Herbs

Name: Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (basil or thyme), chopped; Extra lemon zest for garnish; Sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Breakfast Recipes

I love baking, and these Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Herbs are a delightful treat that always put a smile on my face. The unique combination of tangy lemon and creamy ricotta creates a texture that’s soft and pillowy. Adding fresh herbs gives these cookies a savory twist, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether I serve them at a gathering or enjoy them with a cup of tea, these cookies never fail to impress. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

The Hazelsrecipes Team

Last updated on 2026-03-31T18:03:39.196Z

When I first tried Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Herbs, I was amazed by how a simple addition of cheese could elevate a cookie! The creamy ricotta not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the cookies incredibly moist, which is a game changer for any baking enthusiast like me. Each bite bursts with fresh herbs and citrus, creating a delightful harmony that’s hard to resist.

I’ve experimented with various herbs, but fresh basil and thyme truly shine in this recipe. They complement the lemon zest beautifully, making these cookies not just a dessert, but a sophisticated treat you can savor. I also suggest adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking—trust me, it brings everything together perfectly!

Reasons to Love These Cookies

Delightfully soft texture that melts in your mouth
Unique blend of zesty lemon and savory herbs
Perfect for any occasion, from tea parties to family gatherings

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (basil or thyme), chopped

For the Topping

Extra lemon zest for garnish
Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese, softened butter, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until fully combined.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped herbs.

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Once cooled, sprinkle with extra lemon zest and a pinch of sea salt before serving.

Storage and Freezing

These Lemon Ricotta Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to preserve them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Simply layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and store them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours, then revive them with a quick five-minute warm-up in a 300°F oven for that fresh-baked texture.

For a twist, try adding a glaze made from lemon juice and powdered sugar before serving. This glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances the lemon flavor. Just be sure to let the cookies cool completely, as the glaze might melt if applied too soon.

Variations and Customization

If you're looking to cater to dietary preferences, these cookies can easily be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for blends that contain xanthan gum, as this helps mimic the texture of traditional flour. You could also try adding nuts like chopped pistachios or walnuts for added crunch and flavor that pairs well with the lemon and herbs.

For a richer flavor experience, consider incorporating ingredients like almond extract or vanilla extract into the wet mixture. Both provide a depth of flavor that complements the lemon beautifully. Another fun variation involves zesting citrus other than lemon, such as lime or orange, to give the cookies a different twist while retaining that delightful ricotta base.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute ricotta cheese?

While ricotta adds a unique texture, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as alternatives, but the flavor will vary.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

→ Can I use other citrus fruits?

Absolutely! Orange or lime zest can be substituted for lemon for a different flavor profile.

→ Are these cookies gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.