Next, if you’re feeling adventurous, now is the time to fold in the lemon zest. This subtle touch really elevates the cookie with a fresh brightness that I can’t get enough of! Line your baking sheet with parchment paper, and using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They don’t spread too much, so you don’t need to worry about them running into each other.
Once you’ve got your cookie dough on the sheet, pop them into the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes. I love keeping an eye on them because the smell of these cookies baking is pure bliss—like a warm hug! You’ll want to take them out when they’re lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, I recommend trying one right away—there’s something magical about warm cookies! If you manage to save some for later, they’re just as delicious when they’re at room temperature.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways, and my favorite method was to let the dough sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. I found that this slight chill helped the cookies hold their shape a bit better! Also, make sure you’re using full-fat ricotta for that creamy texture. Low-fat versions didn’t yield the same fluffy results.
If you love a bit of texture, consider mixing in some sugar-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough. That added crunch makes each bite even more satisfying, and trust me, you won’t regret it! Finally, if you want to enhance the flavor even further, a pinch of cinnamon in the dough adds a warm spice that really complements the cookie.
Don’t skip the parchment paper—it not only helps in preventing sticking, but it also makes cleanup so much easier, and who doesn’t love that?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the dough. It’s important to mix just enough to combine the ingredients; overmixing can lead to denser cookies than you want. Trust me, I’ve been there! They still taste amazing but won’t have that airy texture.
Another thing to watch for is the baking time. Ovens can vary widely, so keep an eye on your cookies as they approach the 15-minute mark. You want them to be just set and golden around the edges. Pulling them out too soon might leave you with gooey centers, which, while still tasty, can result in a mess!
Lastly, do keep in mind that these cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet for a few moments after you take them out. I once put mine in for a minute too long because I was distracted by the smell—and, well, let’s say some of them turned a bit too golden for my liking! (See the next page below to continue…)