Gluten-Free Soft Ricotta Almond Pillows


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Gluten-Free Goodness : Made with almond flour and gluten-free ingredients for a safe, delicious treat.
  2. Creamy & Nutty Filling : Ricotta and almonds create a rich, satisfying filling.
  3. Light & Fluffy Dough : The gluten-free dough is surprisingly tender and easy to work with.
  4. Customizable : Add citrus zest, chocolate chips, or spices to make them your own.
  5. Crowd-Pleasing : A unique dessert that’s perfect for sharing or gifting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

  • 1 1/2 cups almond flour (finely ground)
  • 1/2 cup tapioca flour (or cornstarch for structure)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs , room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter , melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese (drained if watery)
  • 1/4 cup finely ground almonds (or almond meal)
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)

For Topping:

  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds , toasted
  • Powdered sugar , for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, tapioca flour, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix until a soft, pliable dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, ground almonds, powdered sugar, almond extract, and lemon zest (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pillows

  1. Divide the dough into 8–10 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc about 3–4 inches wide.
  2. Place 1–2 teaspoons of the ricotta filling in the center of each disc. Carefully fold the edges over the filling and pinch them together to seal, forming a small pillow shape. Gently reshape if needed.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place the assembled pillows on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter or beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds.
  3. Bake for 15–18 minutes , or until the pillows are lightly golden and firm to the touch.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Let the pillows cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.