Welcome to a delightful journey into the world of baking with our Orange Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies. These cookies are not just treats but a feast for the eyes and the palate, perfect for special occasions or as a charming gift to brighten someone’s day. Let’s dive into the details of making these exquisite peach-shaped cookies filled with a creamy orange-ricotta blend.
Ingredients:
Ricotta Filling:
- Ricotta cheese: 2 heaping cups
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup
- Vanilla bean paste: 1 teaspoon
- Orange zest: 2 teaspoons
Cookies:
- All-purpose flour: 4 cups, spooned and leveled
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- Large eggs: 3
- Granulated sugar: ¾ cup
- Full-fat milk: ½ cup
- Unsalted butter: 1 stick, melted and cooled
- Salt: a small pinch
- Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon
Assembly:
- Granulated sugar for coating: 1 cup
- Red or pink food coloring
- Rum, peach liqueur, or peach juice: 1 tablespoon
- Mint leaves or other leaf decorations
Directions:
- Prepare Ricotta: Combine ricotta with sugar, vanilla, and orange zest. Refrigerate to chill while preparing the cookies.
- Make Cookies: Sift together flour and baking powder. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, milk, butter, salt, and lemon zest. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet until combined. Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- Bake: Shape the dough into balls and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until golden at the bottom.
- Assemble Cookies: Hollow out the centers of the warm cookies. Pair similar-sized halves. Fill with the ricotta mixture, press together, and seal with the excess filling. Mix food coloring with your choice of rum, liqueur, or juice. Gently brush the mixture onto the cookies and roll them in sugar. Chill the cookies before serving.
Prep and Cooking Times:
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Servings: 22 cookies
Tips:
- Ensure that the cookies are of the same size for uniformity.
- Apply the food coloring gently to avoid soaking the cookies.
- Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor enhancement.
FAQ Section
- Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese for the filling?
- Yes, low-fat ricotta can be used, but full-fat ricotta is recommended for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
- How long can these cookies be stored?
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Can I freeze the cookies?
- Yes, these cookies freeze well. Freeze them without the sugar coating and add the coating after thawing for best results.
- Is there an alternative to using alcohol in the recipe?
- Absolutely, you can use peach juice or a simple syrup flavored with vanilla or almond extract as a non-alcoholic alternative.
Chef’s Advice:
To elevate your Orange Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies, consider using homemade ricotta for the filling. It’s surprisingly easy to make and provides a fresh, rich flavor that can’t be matched by store-bought varieties. Also, for an added touch of elegance, garnish with fresh peach slices or a light drizzle of orange glaze right before serving.
These charming cookies are sure to impress at any gathering, combining the rustic sweetness of peaches with the zesty brightness of orange, all wrapped up in a soft, sugary hug. Enjoy the process of creating these delightful treats, and watch them bring a smile to everyone’s face!