Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Light and airy: A perfect balance of texture with soft interiors and a slightly crisp almond topping.
- Naturally nutty: The almond flour and sliced almonds create a subtle, nutty richness.
- Versatile treat: Great for brunch, dessert, or a snack.
- Low effort, high reward: Minimal ingredients for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ricotta cheese
- almond flour
- powdered sugar
- large eggs
- vanilla extract
- almond extract
- salt
- baking powder
- lemon zest
- sliced almonds (for topping)
- powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the ricotta cheese, almond flour, powdered sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, salt, baking powder, and lemon zest in a large bowl. Mix until smooth.
- Shape Puffs: Drop rounded tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of each puff for added texture.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes until the puffs are lightly golden and set.
- Cool and Dust: Let the puffs cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 12 puffs
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a certified gluten-free baking powder to ensure the recipe is gluten-free.
- Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a touch of decadence.
- Citrus Boost: Replace lemon zest with orange zest for a different citrus note.
- Spiced Version: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, spiced flavors.
- Honey-Glazed: Drizzle the finished puffs with a bit of honey instead of powdered sugar for a natural sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the almond ricotta puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their softness.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze almond ricotta puffs?
Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat as needed.
2. Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
Almond flour is key for texture and flavor, but you can substitute with all-purpose flour if needed, adjusting for moisture.
3. Are these suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, these puffs are naturally lower in carbs thanks to almond flour, but consider using a sugar substitute to make them keto-friendly.
4. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Mascarpone or cottage cheese (blended smooth) are good alternatives.
5. How do I prevent the puffs from spreading too much?
Ensure the batter is mixed well but not overly runny, and chill it briefly if needed before baking.
6. Can I make these without eggs?
Eggs help with structure, but you can try a flaxseed egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
7. How do I know when the puffs are done baking?
Look for lightly golden edges and a set texture when touched gently.
8. Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?
Yes, but almond meal will make the texture slightly denser.
9. What’s the best way to serve these?
Serve them with coffee, tea, or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful pairing.
10. Can I add other toppings?
Certainly! Try chopped pistachios, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Conclusion
Light Almond Ricotta Puffs are a simple yet elegant treat that’s sure to impress. Their combination of creamy ricotta, nutty almond flour, and zesty lemon makes them irresistibly delicious. Whether for a casual snack or a special occasion, these puffs are a versatile and easy recipe that you’ll come back to time and again.
Light Almond Ricotta Puffs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Light Almond Ricotta Puffs are a delightful, nutty dessert or snack featuring ricotta cheese, almond flour, and a hint of lemon zest. These airy, golden puffs are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, offering a light and refreshing flavor that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese
- Almond flour
- Powdered sugar
- Large eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Almond extract
- Salt
- Baking powder
- Lemon zest
- Sliced almonds (for topping)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, almond flour, powdered sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, salt, baking powder, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Drop tablespoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of each puff.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until lightly golden and set.
- Cool slightly, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure baking powder is certified gluten-free.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
