Grandma’s Easy Almond-Orange Ricotta Biscuit Twists

Before we dive into warm, buttery bites of heaven, let me just say—thank you so much for being here. Whether you’re baking with a cup of coffee nearby, or just daydreaming about your next comfort-filled kitchen creation, I’m so grateful to share this recipe with you.

Grandma’s Easy Almond-Orange Ricotta Biscuit Twists are like a warm hug from the past. They’re soft, delicately sweet, and infused with the magical combination of nutty almond and bright citrus zest. Think Sunday mornings, floral aprons, and the clinking of old china. These are the biscuits that feel like home.

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A Biscuit Worth Twisting For

This recipe is what happens when a tender, fluffy biscuit meets dessert-like elegance. The ricotta cheese makes these twists melt-in-your-mouth soft, while the orange zest and almond extract add a sophisticated, unexpected twist to a classic family bake. The smell when these are in the oven? Incredible!!

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof—these beauties work for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, and they pair just as easily with jam as they do with a little whipped cream or honey drizzle.

Why You’ll Love These Biscuit Twists

Easy to Make – Just one bowl, one dough, and a few simple steps.
Light & Fluffy Texture – Thanks to the magic of ricotta.
Delicately Flavored – Orange and almond shine without overpowering.
Beautiful Presentation – That twist shape is so inviting.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for prepping ahead for guests or events.

The Taste: Comfort With a Citrus Spark

Close your eyes and imagine a soft biscuit that’s not too sweet, with hints of creamy tanginess from ricotta. Then comes that zing of orange zest and the toasty crunch of almonds on top—every bite is rich with memory and just a touch of brightness. These are the biscuits that make you pause and smile.

The Benefits of This Biscuit Recipe

Uses everyday pantry staples
Can be frozen for later baking
Kid- and adult-approved alike
Elegant enough for gifting or special occasions
Customizable for different flavor variations

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 large egg
Zest of 1 orange
1 teaspoon almond extract
¼ cup sliced almonds (for topping)
Extra sugar, for sprinkling

Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Pastry cutter or clean hands
Wooden spoon or spatula
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Zester or fine grater

Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

✨ No ricotta? Use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese (blended smooth).
✨ Want it sweeter? Add 1–2 tablespoons more sugar and a glaze drizzle.
✨ Gluten-free? Try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—just don’t over-knead.
✨ Feeling fancy? Mix in dried cranberries or mini chocolate chips.
✨ Nut-free? Skip the almonds and use sanding sugar for sparkle.

How to Make Grandma’s Biscuit Twists

Step 1: Prep Your Oven

Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Dry Ingredients First

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Drop in cold, cubed butter. Cut it into the flour with a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir ricotta, egg, orange zest, and almond extract until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Gently

Pour the ricotta mixture into the flour-butter mixture and stir just until it comes together. Don’t overmix—rustic is beautiful!

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead just a few times to bring it together. Roll into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.

Step 7: Cut & Twist

Slice into 1-inch wide strips. Gently twist each strip and lay them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Top It Off

Sprinkle with sliced almonds and a little sugar for sparkle and crunch.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Let cool slightly, then enjoy with tea, coffee, or a side of sweet jam!

What to Serve With These Twists

A cup of Earl Grey or fresh-pressed orange juice
Mascarpone cheese with a drizzle of honey
Berry compote or orange marmalade
Whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon

Tips for Perfect Biscuit Twists

Cold butter is key – It creates those tender layers.
Don’t overwork the dough – Gentle kneading keeps them light.
Use fresh zest – It makes all the difference in flavor!
Bake on parchment – For easy cleanup and even browning.
Twist loosely – Over-twisting can flatten them.

Storage Instructions

Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Fridge: Up to 5 days (warm before serving).
Freezer: Freeze unbaked twists for up to 1 month. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, twist, and freeze. Bake fresh whenever needed.

Do they taste very sweet?

They’re lightly sweet—perfect for breakfast or tea. Add glaze if you want dessert-level sweetness.

Can I use orange juice instead of zest?

Zest gives more concentrated flavor. If using juice, add just a teaspoon and reduce the ricotta slightly to keep the dough from being too wet.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

Vanilla works fine, but almond extract gives that nostalgic bakery-style flavor. Use both if you love depth!

Conclusion: A Bite of Comfort, A Twist of Magic

These Almond-Orange Ricotta Biscuit Twists are the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again. They’re cozy, unfussy, and filled with heart—just like Grandma’s best treats always were. I highly recommend doubling the batch because they disappear fast!

Want more sweet, nostalgic bakes?

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🍊 Nutritional Information (per twist, approx.)

Calories: 220
Fat: 11g
Carbs: 25g
Protein: 5g
Sugar: 6g