Quick and Easy Italian Crispy Savory Parmesan Cookies

Savory Parmesan Cookies are crumbly and tasty appetizers, ideal for a brunch, for a buffet or to serve as a delicious starter.

They are prepared with an egg-free dough, mixing together butter, flour, ricotta, grated parmesan, salt, pepper and aromatic herbs: we have chosen rosemary, thyme and sage for a pleasantly aromatic result. Once the dough is formed, all you have to do is roll it out and cut out the biscuits with the cutters of your choice; bake them in the oven for about 10 minutes, ready to enjoy.

What Are Savory Parmesan Cookies?

Savory Parmesan Cookies are a delightful Italian creation that blend the rich heritage of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese with the art of baking. Parmigiano Reggiano is a cheese with a history dating back approximately 900 years; the fusion of this esteemed cheese into a cookie dough showcases the Italian knack for transforming simple components into gourmet delights.

The spread of Frollini al Parmigiano beyond Italy can be attributed to the global appreciation of Italian cuisine and the versatility of these cookies as appetizers or snacks. Their unique flavor profile, combining the umami of aged Parmesan with the buttery texture of cookie dough, appeals to a wide audience.

Pro Tips for The Best Savory Parmesan Cookies

• Avoid, at all costs, pre-grated Parmesan cheese.
• The dough needs to be cold before baking it.
• Mix just until combined to avoid activating gluten.
• An even thickness of the dough is essential for even baking.
• Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Does the Dough Need to Go in The Fridge?

Yes, it's essential to firm the butter and help you shape them better. If you skip this step, you risk your cookies spreading a bit too much while they're baking!

Why is My Dough so Crumbly?

It usually means that the butter isn't incorporated, or that the dough is lacking moisture! To fix this, add a bit of water, a little at a time, and keep kneading until it has reached the right consistency.

Can I Add Anything Else to The Dough?

You could easily use another type of hard aged cheese – think pecorino romano cheese – or you could add more herbs or substitute the ones in this recipe – with either chives, basil or oregano! You could also add some spices, to add a little kick – like chili flakes.

Why Are my Cookies so Tough and Hard?

You have either overmixed the dough – which has led to the gluten developing too much – or you have overbaked them – burning them!

What Can I Serve These Cookies With?

You can offer them to guests accompanied by olives, cubes of cured meats and cheeses, or fill them in pairs with a dollop of robiola, for a richer and more delicious effect.

Can I Make These Savory Parmesan Cookies Ahead?

Yes, Parmesan cookies can be made ahead of time! You can prepare and refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days.

Do These Savory Parmesan Cookies Freeze Well?

Of course they do! You can freeze them both unbaked (for up to a month) and after you have baked them (for up to 3 months).

How to Store Savory Parmesan Cookies

You can store the parmesan cookies for 3-4 days in a tin or in a special container with an airtight seal.

How to Make Savory Parmesan Cookies

Mix together the flour, parmesan, ricotta cheese, cubed butter, salt, pepper and chopped herbs.

Knead by hand until you obtain a compact and smooth dough.

Roll it out with a rolling pin and cut out the shapes with the cutters you prefer.

Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake at 360°F/180°C for 10 minutes.

Enjoy!