Soft Almond Ricotta Tea Cakes

Ingredients:

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 1 teaspoon almond extract

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup almond flour

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for garnish)

– Additional powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a muffin tin or lining it with paper liners.

2. Mix Ricotta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, almond extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

3. Cream Butter: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter until it becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add the ricotta mixture to the butter, mixing until fully incorporated.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and baking powder. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

5. Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of each cake for added texture and flavor.

6. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the cakes are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool: Once baked, remove the tea cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Serve: Dust the cooled tea cakes with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 12 tea cakes

Calories: Approx. 180 per cake

Notes: These soft almond ricotta tea cakes are perfect for afternoon tea, offering a light and fluffy texture with a subtle almond flavor that pairs beautifully with your favorite beverage!