RICOTTA DROP COOKIES

A single batch of these mouthwatering cookies is never enough. I usually make one to give away and two more to keep at home. Adding ricotta cheese to the batter makes the morsels extra soft.

—DORIS MARSHALL STRASBURG, PA


PREP: 25 MIN. • BAKE: 10 MIN./BATCH + COOLING • MAKES:1/2 DOZEN

1 cup butter, softened

2 cups sugar

3 large eggs

1 carton (15 ounces) ricotta cheese

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

FROSTING

1/4 cup butter, softened

3 to 4 cups confectioners’ sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 to 4 tablespoons milk

Colored sprinkles

1. In a bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in ricotta and vanilla. Combine flour, salt and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture.

2. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 in. apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

3. In a large bowl, cream softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla and enough milk to reach spreading consistency. Frost cooled cookies and immediately decorate with sprinkles. Store in the refrigerator.