Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Environment
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Line a 12-cup muffin tin with parchment liners or lightly grease mini tart pans.
If ricotta is watery, drain it in a fine-mesh sieve for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, mix ricotta and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in lemon zest and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined (do not overmix).
Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Divide batter evenly between cups, filling each ¾ full.
Sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Simple Version: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Glazed Version: Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice, drizzle over cooled cakes, and let set.