Almond Ricotta Biscuit Twists

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked biscuits wafting through the kitchen, reminding us of cozy family gatherings and cherished moments. These Almond Ricotta Biscuit Twists are a delightful treat that will bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Made with fresh ricotta sourced from our local dairy shop, they offer a unique twist to the classic biscuit that will have everyone asking for more.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe for Almond Ricotta Biscuit Twists is not only easy to make, but it also provides a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The ricotta adds a creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the flaky exterior of the biscuit. The aromatic almond extract and the crunch from the sliced almonds create a mouth-watering experience with every bite. This recipe is perfect for family breakfast, special occasions, or simply when you want to indulge in a sweet treat.

Pro Tips for Making Almond Ricotta Biscuit Twists

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your biscuit twists come out perfectly:

• Use Cold Butter: Ensure your butter is cold to achieve a flaky texture in the biscuits. Cut it into small cubes and quickly mix it into the dry ingredients.
• Do Not Overmix: Mix the ricotta and flour mixture until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough biscuits.
• Shape Carefully: When rolling and twisting the dough, handle it gently to maintain the airy texture of the biscuits.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other flavors like vanilla extract or citrus zest to customize the biscuit twists to your liking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container. These biscuits are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated for a quick treat later.

Ingredients

To make Grandma’s Almond Ricotta Biscuit Twists, you will need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)
• 1 egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prepares your space for the biscuit twists to bake evenly and prevents sticking.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined. Mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly at this step ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for creating a flaky texture in the biscuit.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and almond extract until smooth. The ricotta adds moisture and richness to the biscuits, balancing the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Pour the ricotta mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough biscuits.

Step 6: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. This is a crucial step; avoid overworking the dough to maintain its lightness.

Step 7: Roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. This will give each biscuit twist a nice shape and size for even baking.

Step 8: Cut the rectangle into strips about 1 inch wide. The thin strips will help create those delightful twisted shapes once they are baked.

Step 9: Twist each strip and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle with sliced almonds to create a beautifully golden finish.

Step 10: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary based on your oven.

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delightful twists with a cup of coffee or tea, just like Grandma used to!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can experiment with goat cheese or cottage cheese, but the texture and flavor will change slightly.

How can I store leftover biscuit twists?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for longer freshness. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

Can I freeze these biscuit twists?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked twists on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with these biscuit twists?

They pair wonderfully with honey, jam, or even a sweet cream cheese spread. You can also enjoy them plain!

Can I make these biscuits without almond extract?

Yes, feel free to substitute with vanilla extract or citrus zest for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Almond Ricotta Biscuit Twists are a heartfelt recipe that brings together family tradition, delightful flavors, and a simple preparation method. By using fresh ricotta and aromatic almond extract, these biscuit twists promise to elevate your baking game. Serve them warm for an emotional touch of nostalgia and comfort that will please everyone at the table.