Limoncini with Ricotta and Lemon

Featured in Sweet Delights for Every Occasion.

Limoncini are bite-sized treats filled with ricotta and lemon for a refreshing and light dessert. This easy-to-make delight is perfect for any occasion, requiring only 5 minutes of preparation and 30 minutes of resting time. Blend ricotta, stevia, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla, mix with crushed Pavesini, and chill. Shape into small balls, coat with icing sugar, and serve! These sweets are just 29 calories each and can be adapted by swapping the lemon for orange zest or other fruit flavors. Simple, quick, and irresistibly delicious!

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Updated on Mon, 21 Apr 2025 16:09:46 GMT
A bowl of lemon sorbet. Pin it
A bowl of lemon sorbet. | cookingkeys.com

This creamy Limoncini dessert has become my go-to treat when I need a light yet indulgent sweet that won't derail my healthy eating habits. With just 29 calories per bite-sized treat, these ricotta and lemon balls deliver bright citrus flavor in a guilt-free package that always impresses guests.

I first made these for a last-minute dinner party when I had no time for complicated baking. Now my family requests them weekly, especially during warmer months when we crave something sweet but refreshing after meals.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

A bowl of lemon sorbet with a lemon wedge on the side. Pin it
A bowl of lemon sorbet with a lemon wedge on the side. | cookingkeys.com

The lemon zest is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its importance when I once made these without it. The difference was remarkable. The oils in the zest contain concentrated flavor compounds that infuse the entire dessert with brightness. My grandmother taught me to gently rub the zest between my fingers before adding it to release even more of those fragrant oils.

Storage Tips

Delicious Variations

A plate of lemon meringues. Pin it
A plate of lemon meringues. | cookingkeys.com

Serving Suggestions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What are limoncini made of?

Limoncini are made with cow's ricotta, Pavesini, stevia (or sugar), lemon juice and zest, vanilla essence, and optionally, yellow food coloring and icing sugar.

→ How long does it take to prepare limoncini?

Limoncini take about 5 minutes to prepare and require 30 minutes of resting time in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use other flavors instead of lemon?

Yes, you can replace the lemon juice and zest with orange or other fruit to vary the flavor of limoncini.

→ How should limoncini be served?

Limoncini can be served immediately after preparation or chilled further in the refrigerator for an hour to set and enhance their texture.

→ Are limoncini suitable for a low-calorie diet?

Yes, limoncini are a low-calorie option with just 29 calories per piece, making them a light and satisfying dessert choice.

Limoncini Ricotta Lemon Delight

Limoncini- a light, ricotta-filled dessert with lemon. Ready in minutes, these treats are irresistibly delicious.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
5 Minutes

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 30 Servings (30 lemon balls)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 250 g cow's ricotta
02 120 g Pavesini biscuits
03 50 g stevia sweetener or 100 g sugar
04 2 lemons, juice and grated zest
05 ½ vial vanilla essence
06 A few drops yellow food coloring (optional)
07 Icing sugar, to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Sift the ricotta and pour it into a bowl. Add the stevia sweetener (or sugar) and mix until creamy and uniform.

Step 02

Add the vanilla essence, lemon juice, and grated lemon zest. If desired, include yellow food coloring and mix thoroughly.

Step 03

Blend the Pavesini biscuits into crumbs, pour them into the cream mixture, and mix thoroughly to combine.

Step 04

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to let it firm up.

Step 05

Remove the mixture from the refrigerator, wet your hands slightly, and form small balls with the mixture.

Step 06

Roll the balls in icing sugar to coat them completely, then place them on a tray or plate.

Step 07

Serve immediately or refrigerate for an additional hour for a cooler, firmer consistency.

Notes

  1. You can replace lemon juice and zest with orange or other fruit for a different flavor.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (ricotta).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 29
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~