Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

If you’re craving a sweet treat that is both indulgent and unique, these Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies are the perfect choice.

The zesty brightness of fresh orange pairs beautifully with the richness of chocolate chips, while the ricotta cheese adds an unexpected, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Soft, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, these cookies bring a refreshing twist to your usual baking routine. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How To Make Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies?

Preparation Times: 15 minutes

Cooking Times: 12 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yields: 24 cookies

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack
• Spoon or cookie scoop

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• Salt, to taste
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (about 1 large orange)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Set this aside for later.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add Ricotta and Wet Ingredients

To the butter-sugar mixture, add the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix until everything is well incorporated and smooth.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until everything is combined. Once the dough forms, it will be slightly sticky but should hold together nicely.

6. Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula or spoon. The chocolate chips add a rich contrast to the bright citrus flavor of the cookies.

7. Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, and the center is set.

9. Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts Of Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

• Calories: 130
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 6g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Sugars: 9g

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Coffee or Tea: The citrusy notes in the cookies blend wonderfully with the bitterness of coffee or the subtle flavors of herbal tea.

Gift Ideas: These cookies make a great gift, especially when packed in a cute tin or gift box. They’re a perfect treat for the holidays or special occasions.

Tips and Variations

Add Nuts: If you love a little crunch, try folding in some chopped walnuts or pistachios for added texture and flavor.

Use Different Chocolate: While semi-sweet chocolate chips work perfectly, feel free to swap them with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate for a unique twist.

Dairy-Free Option: If you need a dairy-free option, you can use plant-based butter and swap the ricotta cheese for a dairy-free ricotta alternative.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling solidifies the fats, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

These Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies are the perfect blend of citrusy freshness and rich chocolate goodness.

Their soft, pillowy texture makes each bite a delightful experience. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.