Recipes

Frosted Lemon Ricotta Bars

December 15, 2024
christian

Frosted Lemon Ricotta Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the zesty flavor of fresh lemons. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a sweet treat. The refreshing lemon flavor paired with a smooth frosting makes these bars a must-try recipe. With their vibrant taste and easy preparation, Frosted Lemon Ricotta Bars will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
  • Additional lemon zest for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Add the ricotta cheese, egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool the Bars: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. Prepare the Frosting: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
  8. Frost the Bars: Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.
  9. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Frosted Lemon Ricotta Bars!

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, you can substitute mascarpone or cream cheese for a different flavor profile, but the texture may vary slightly.

How should I store Frosted Lemon Ricotta Bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Can I add more lemon flavor?

Absolutely! You can increase the lemon zest and juice in the batter or add lemon extract for an extra punch of flavor.

Are Frosted Lemon Ricotta Bars gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.