There’s something so nostalgic about a tray of biscotti cooling on the counter, the air filled with buttery, nutty aromas. These Almond Ricotta Biscotti are a family favorite in my kitchen—crunchy enough for that satisfying snap yet tender inside, thanks to the ricotta. Perfect for dunking in coffee, tea, or even a little dessert wine.
I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you today—it’s cozy, elegant, and oh-so-dunkable. If you love Italian cookies, you’re in for a treat. Don’t forget to subscribe to my email list so you never miss another recipe!
Overview of Recipe Content
What is Almond Ricotta Biscotti?
Traditional biscotti gets a little twist with the addition of ricotta cheese, giving these cookies a delicate richness. Almonds bring the crunch, while lemon zest adds a bright, fragrant note.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect with coffee or tea—your afternoon ritual just got an upgrade.
- Crunchy yet tender—the ricotta keeps them from being rock-hard.
- Make ahead friendly—these cookies last for weeks in an airtight tin.
What It Tastes Like
Nutty, lightly sweet, and kissed with citrus, these biscotti are balanced and versatile. You’ll taste buttery almond richness with a subtle tang from ricotta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- Zest of 1 lemon
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife for slicing biscotti
Suggested Substitutions
- Swap almonds for pistachios or hazelnuts.
- Use orange zest instead of lemon for a warmer flavor.
- Add chocolate chips for a decadent variation.
How to Make Almond Ricotta Biscotti
- Cream Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, beat ricotta, sugar, and butter until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly fold into the ricotta mixture until just combined.
- Add Flavor – Stir in almonds and lemon zest. The dough will be slightly sticky.
- Shape the Logs – Divide dough in half. On a parchment-lined baking sheet, shape each portion into a log about 10 inches long.
- First Bake – Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool 10 minutes.
- Slice & Bake Again – Slice logs into 1-inch pieces on the diagonal. Arrange cut-side up and bake an additional 10–12 minutes per side until crisp.
- Cool & Enjoy – Let biscotti cool completely before storing (they crisp up even more as they rest).
What to Serve with Almond Ricotta Biscotti
These biscotti are wonderful with:
- A cappuccino or espresso.
- A glass of vin santo (classic Italian pairing).
- A scoop of vanilla gelato for an indulgent dessert.
Tips for Making It Perfect
- Use a serrated knife to slice without crumbling.
- Don’t skip the second bake—that’s what makes them crunchy.
- Store at room temperature in an airtight tin lined with parchment.
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: Up to 2 weeks in a tin.
- Freezer: Wrap well and freeze up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes if they soften.
General Information
Biscotti originated in Italy, famously twice-baked to ensure they stayed crunchy for long journeys. Ricotta adds a creamy softness while almonds keep the traditional crunch intact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Do I need to toast the almonds first?
Optional—but toasting deepens their flavor beautifully.
Why is my biscotti crumbling?
Be sure to let the logs cool for 10 minutes before slicing with a serrated knife.
Can I add chocolate drizzle?
Absolutely! Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle over cooled biscotti.
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Conclusion
These Almond Ricotta Biscotti are proof that sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most special treats. They’re cozy, festive, and make a perfect homemade gift.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love:
- Italian Lemon Ricotta Cookies
- Pistachio Cranberry Biscotti
- Classic Tiramisu
- Soft Italian Amaretti Cookies
- Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Thanks for baking along with me—don’t forget to share your biscotti photos on Pinterest and tag me!
Nutritional Information (per biscotti, approx.)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Sugar | Fat | Sat. Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | 4g | 20g | 9g | 6g | 2g | 2g | 90mg |
Almond Ricotta Biscotti – Crunchy, Nutty & Perfectly Dunkable!
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 24 biscotti 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crunchy, nutty, and perfectly dunkable, these Almond Ricotta Biscotti combine ricotta, almonds, and lemon zest for the ultimate coffee-time treat.
Ingredients
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sliced almonds
Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
1. Cream ricotta, sugar, and butter until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla.
2. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt; fold into wet mixture.
3. Stir in almonds and lemon zest.
4. Shape into 2 logs and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.
5. Cool 10 minutes, slice diagonally, and bake 10–12 minutes per side.
6. Cool completely before serving.
Notes
Use a serrated knife for clean cuts. Store in an airtight container up to 2 weeks. For extra indulgence, drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 biscotti
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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Gianna Poulef
I’m Gianna Poulef from Poulef Recipes. I love sharing perfected dishes from my kitchen. I’m sure they’ll earn a spot in your heart. Let’s savor this journey together!.
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