For a richer flavor, use browned butter in the cookie bars. Allow the browned butter to cool slightly before incorporating it into the batter. Ensure your ingredients, particularly the ricotta cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for optimal emulsification and a smoother batter. The amount of milk needed for the glaze may vary depending on the humidity. Add milk gradually until the desired consistency is achieved. Experiment with different citrus zests and juices, such as orange or lime, to customize the flavor profile. These bars are best enjoyed within 3-4 days of baking. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness.
Italian Ricotta Cookie Bars
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PREP TIME15 mins
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COOK TIME30 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 15 mins
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SERVING16 People
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VIEWS11
Experience the sublime softness of ricotta cookies transformed into convenient bars! These Italian-inspired treats offer all the delightful flavor and cakey texture you love, without the fuss of individual cookies.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate29 g
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Cholesterol54 mg
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Fiber0 g
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Protein4 g
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Saturated Fat5 g
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Sodium120 mg
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Sugar21 g
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Fat9 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPreheat the oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). Line a 9x9-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring enough overhang on all sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment.
02
StepFor the cookie bars, in a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, white sugar, brown sugar, salt, and nutmeg with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy (2-3 minutes). Add the eggs and beat for an additional minute. Incorporate the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until thoroughly combined. Gently fold in the flour and baking soda until just combined. Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
03
StepBake until golden brown and the center of the bars feels just set when lightly touched (approximately 30 minutes). Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
04
StepFor the icing, in a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, lemon juice, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and milk until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add additional milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a pourable consistency. Pour the glaze over the cooled bars and spread into an even layer. Immediately sprinkle nonpareils over the icing before it sets. Allow the glaze to set completely before cutting the bars into 16 squares. Refrigeration can expedite the setting process. Store the bars in the refrigerator, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
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Frederic Connelly
Jul 1, 2025My family devoured these in minutes! Will definitely be making them again.
Nelle Gerlach
Jun 30, 2025These bars are amazing! So soft and flavorful, and the icing is perfect.
Bernadette Maggio
Jun 29, 2025The lemon flavor is so refreshing. A perfect summer treat!
Demario Lesch
Jun 24, 2025I added a bit of almond extract to the icing, and it was delicious!
Meredith Kunze
Jun 24, 2025I loved how easy these were to make. A great alternative to individual cookies.