When you think of true Italian comfort desserts, one hidden gem that deserves the spotlight is lemon ricotta dumplings. This sweet, citrus-kissed treat has been passed down through generations in my family. I remember my Nonna standing at the counter, gently folding creamy ricotta into the dough while the warm scent of lemon zest filled the kitchen. It’s a dessert that feels like a hug simple, bright, and irresistibly good.
The origins of lemon ricotta dumplings lie in rustic southern Italy where families used humble ingredients like fresh ricotta, semolina flour, and seasonal citrus to create something magical. Over time, it’s become a staple in our celebrations and quiet Sunday meals alike.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Ricotta Dumplings
- It’s quick and easy but feels fancy.
- A perfect mix of creamy, sweet, and zesty.
- Great for using up ricotta and leftover lemons.
- Crowd-pleasing and kid-approved.
- Easily customizable to add your twist.
Pure Comfort
One bite of these lemon ricotta dumplings, and you’re transported to a sunny afternoon in the Italian countryside. They melt in your mouth with a burst of lemon and sweet dairy richness that speaks directly to the soul. Much like Swamp Soup – Southern Comfort, this dish brings that cozy, homey feeling.
Ingredients for Lemon Ricotta Dumplings
Here’s what you’ll need to make these dumplings shine:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (fresh and drained)
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup sugar
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup semolina flour (or all-purpose as substitute)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
- Optional: Fresh mint or berries for garnish
What You Need
- Mixing bowls
- Microplane or zester
- Slotted spoon
- Saucepan
- Parchment or silicone-lined baking tray
Time to Cook Lemon Ricotta Dumplings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Serves: 4-6
Steps to Make It
Step 1: Prep the Ricotta
Make sure your ricotta is well-drained. Wet ricotta makes soggy dumplings.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, sugar, lemon zest, juice, vanilla, and salt. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Add the Flours
Gradually fold in flour and semolina until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but hold its shape.
Step 4: Shape the Dumplings
With wet hands, form small balls (1 tbsp each). Roll lightly in flour if needed.
Step 5: Boil Gently
Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer. Drop in dumplings, a few at a time. Once they float (about 3 minutes), give them another 1-2 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
Step 6: Plate & Dust
Arrange on a serving dish, dust with powdered sugar, and garnish as you like.
Make It Perfect
- Drain the ricotta well—too much moisture is the enemy of a light dumpling.
- Use fresh lemon zest. Bottled juice won’t cut it.
- Do not overmix. Keep it gentle for fluffier dumplings.
- Simmer, don’t boil. A rolling boil can break them apart.
Mix It Up
Feeling playful? Try these variations:
- Add orange zest for a twist.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips for a dessert spin.
- Drizzle with honey or limoncello glaze.
- Want savory? Skip the sugar and lemon, add herbs and parmesan!
Perfect Partners
Pair your lemon ricotta dumplings with:
- A light espresso or cappuccino
- Sourdough French Toast for brunch vibes
- Fresh berries and mascarpone cream
Busy Day Hero
Short on time? Mix the dough in the morning and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just shape and simmer. It’s the kind of dessert that lets you shine even on your busiest days.
Work Ahead
You can prep these dumplings ahead of time! Freeze them raw on a tray, then store in a zip bag. Cook from frozen—just add 1-2 extra minutes in the simmering water.
Save Some For Later
Leftovers? No problem. Store cooked dumplings in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently by steaming or microwaving with a damp towel over the plate.
Everyone’s Happy
These sweet little pillows are kid-approved, grandparent-approved, and everything in between. They’re as great for cozy nights in as they are for impressing guests.
Good For You Too
Using ricotta brings a boost of calcium and protein. Lemon zest provides vitamin C and a bit of mood-lifting brightness. And there’s very little added fat sweet satisfaction, guilt-free.
Easy Clean Up
One bowl, one pot done. This is a low-fuss dessert that respects your sink situation.
Switch It Up
Want to go next-level? Serve these dumplings over:
- A dollop of lemon curd
- A scoop of vanilla gelato
- A spoonful of raspberry coulis
Simply Perfect
Some recipes don’t need much fuss. These lemon ricotta dumplings are one of them. Light, creamy, slightly sweet with just enough zing they’re a joy to make and even better to eat.
FAQs for Lemon Ricotta Dumplings
Q: Can I use store-bought ricotta?
A: Yes, but make sure to drain it well. High moisture = mushy dumplings.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use almond flour or a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend, though texture may vary.
Q: Can I bake these instead of boiling?
A: It’s possible, but boiling gives them that traditional pillowy texture.
Q: How do I know when they’re done?
A: Once they float, give them an extra 1-2 minutes. They should feel firm but not rubbery.
Q: Do these taste like gnocchi?
A: A little! But they’re lighter, slightly sweet, and very dessert-like.
Conclusion for Lemon Ricotta Dumplings
Whether you’re serving a romantic dinner, a family brunch, or just treating yourself after a long day, lemon ricotta dumplings will bring a bright, sweet ending to your meal. They’re a testament to how simple ingredients when used with love can create something truly memorable.
You might also love trying something cozy like Easy Swamp Soup or satisfying like this Ultimate Barilla Lasagna Recipe for your next dinner pairing.
Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!
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Italian Lemon Ricotta Sweet Dumplings
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Light, pillowy lemon ricotta sweet dumplings made with creamy ricotta, fresh lemon zest, and a hint of vanilla for a deliciously simple Italian dessert.
Ingredients
1 cup ricotta cheese (well-drained)
1 egg
1/3 cup sugar
Zest of 1 large lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup semolina flour
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar, for serving
Fresh mint or berries, optional for garnish
Instructions
Drain the ricotta cheese in a sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, egg, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and semolina flour until a soft, sticky dough forms.
With slightly wet hands, form the dough into small dumplings, about 1 tablespoon each.
Bring a large saucepan of water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Drop the dumplings into the water, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Once the dumplings float, let them simmer for another 1–2 minutes until cooked through.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and optionally topped with fresh mint or berries.
Notes
Drain ricotta thoroughly to prevent soggy dumplings. For added flavor, substitute orange zest or add mini chocolate chips. To freeze, place uncooked dumplings on a tray, freeze, and cook directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to cook time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg