Introduction
Imagine a soft, melt-in-your-mouth tea cake infused with the richness of ricotta and the delicate aroma of almond extract. Italian Almond Ricotta Tea Cakes are the perfect balance of buttery sweetness and nutty elegance, making them an irresistible treat to enjoy with tea or coffee. Whether you’re looking for a light dessert, a sophisticated addition to your afternoon tea, or a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into what makes these tea cakes special and how you can create them in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Soft & Moist: Thanks to the ricotta cheese, these cakes stay tender and rich in every bite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
- Nutty Almond Flavor: A beautiful blend of almond extract and almond flour creates a light, nutty taste that pairs perfectly with the ricotta filling.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy them as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or an elegant dessert for special gatherings.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to fit dietary preferences without compromising taste.
Ingredients 🛒
Cakes:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese 🧀
- ½ cup granulated sugar 🍚
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1 teaspoon almond extract 🌿
- ¼ teaspoon salt 🧂
- ½ cup whole milk 🥛
- 1 cup all-purpose flour 🌾
- ½ cup almond flour 🌰
- 1 teaspoon baking powder 🏺
- ¼ cup sliced almonds (for garnish) 🌰
Ricotta Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese 🧀
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar 🍚
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting) 🍚
- Sliced almonds (for garnish) 🌰
Necessary Tools 🛠️
- Mixing bowls 🥣
- Hand mixer or whisk 🔄
- Measuring cups and spoons 📏
- Baking sheet 🍪
- Parchment paper 📜
- Round cookie cutter 🔪
- Cooling rack 🌡️
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap ricotta with a dairy-free alternative like almond-based ricotta and use plant-based butter.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Extra Sweetness: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before serving.
- Citrus Twist: Mix in a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the ricotta, sugar, softened butter, almond extract, and salt until creamy. Slowly mix in the milk.
3️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the ricotta mixture until just combined.
4️⃣ Bake
Drop small rounds of batter onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Sprinkle with sliced almonds and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and springy to the touch.
5️⃣ Prepare the Filling
While the cakes cool, mix ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6️⃣ Assemble
Once the cakes have cooled, use a round cookie cutter to shape them evenly. Slice each cake in half and spread a layer of ricotta filling inside.
7️⃣ Finish & Serve
Dust generously with powdered sugar and top with extra sliced almonds. Serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Ricotta: A smooth, creamy ricotta will yield the best texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cakes dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Chill the Filling: For a firmer consistency, refrigerate the ricotta filling for 30 minutes before assembling.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Pair with a cup of espresso or cappuccino for a classic Italian touch.
- Serve alongside fresh berries for a burst of freshness.
- Drizzle with honey or chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs ❓
1. Can I make these cakes ahead of time? Yes! Store them in the fridge and assemble before serving for the best texture.
2. Can I use store-bought ricotta? Absolutely! Just ensure it’s a high-quality, full-fat ricotta.
3. How can I make them extra fluffy? Be sure to use fresh baking powder and don’t overmix the batter.
4. Are these cakes overly sweet? No, they have a mild sweetness, making them perfect for pairing with coffee or tea.
5. Can I make them nut-free? Yes, replace almond flour with more all-purpose flour and omit the almond extract.
Conclusion
Italian Almond Ricotta Tea Cakes are a delightful, buttery treat that brings a taste of Italian elegance to your kitchen. With their soft texture, nutty flavor, and creamy ricotta filling, they are the perfect companion to your favorite hot drink. Try this recipe today and indulge in the simple pleasures of homemade baking!
