Soft, tender, and bursting with bright citrus flavor, Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of fresh oranges and chocolate. The addition of ricotta cheese makes these cookies irresistibly moist and creamy, while chocolate chips add the perfect hint of sweetness. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or enjoying an everyday treat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
- Unique Flavor Combination: Fresh orange zest and juice pair beautifully with rich chocolate chips.
- Incredibly Soft Texture: Ricotta cheese creates a light and creamy cookie that melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile: Ideal for parties, gifts, or as an afternoon snack.
Ingredients Notes
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest and juice of 1 large orange
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)
- 1 cup candied orange peel (optional, chopped for extra citrus flavor)
How To Make Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the ricotta cheese, chocolate chips, and candied orange peel (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon to create thick discs.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these cookies warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Serve them as part of a dessert platter alongside biscotti, brownies, or shortbread.
- Package them in decorative boxes for gifting to friends and family, especially during the holidays.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand or stand mixer
- Whisk
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or nonstick cooking spray
- Wire rack
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Variations
- Double Chocolate Delight: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a striking contrast.
- Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped almonds or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
- Extra Citrus Kick: Replace the orange juice with a combination of orange and lemon juice for a zesty twist.
- Glazed Cookies: Drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice.
Helpful Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the ricotta cheese, butter, and egg are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Once the dry ingredients are added, mix gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can result in dense cookies.
- Use Fresh Oranges: Fresh orange zest and juice deliver the best flavor—avoid bottled juice for this recipe.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Giada De Laurentiis: Toast the chocolate chips lightly before adding them to the dough for an extra depth of flavor.
- Mary Berry: For uniformly sized cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough evenly.
- Nigella Lawson: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking to balance the sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?
Yes, but whole milk ricotta is recommended for the creamiest texture.
2. What if I don’t have fresh oranges?
You can substitute orange extract (1/2 teaspoon) and bottled orange juice in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute for a gluten-free version.
4. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Make sure your butter isn’t too soft, and chill the dough for 15-20 minutes if it feels too sticky before baking.
5. Can I skip the candied orange peel?
Absolutely! The cookies will still be delicious without it, but the peel adds an extra burst of citrus flavor and texture.
These Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies are a delightful blend of creamy, zesty, and sweet flavors that are sure to brighten your day. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, these cookies are bound to be a hit. Enjoy!
