These orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies are soft, cake-like treats bursting with fresh citrus flavor and dotted with rich chocolate chips. The creamy ricotta in the dough adds a tender texture, while the bright orange glaze ties everything together for a festive, elegant cookie. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy tea time treat, these cookies will become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique texture: Ricotta makes these cookies moist, soft, and irresistibly fluffy.
- Bright and rich flavors: Orange zest pairs beautifully with chocolate for a refreshing yet indulgent combination.
- Holiday-ready: A perfect addition to your cookie platter or dessert table.
- Simple to make: Straightforward steps with pantry staples and fresh citrus.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2 cups (284g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 Tbsp + 1 tsp orange zest (from 2 large navel oranges)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup (241g) whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (165g) mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Glaze:
- 1 1/4 cups (154g) powdered sugar
- 2 1/2 Tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest (about 1/2 navel orange)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (small and large)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone mats
- Spatula or spoon for folding ingredients
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat the granulated sugar, softened butter, and orange zest until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg, followed by the ricotta cheese and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the dough until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 1-2 hours. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape and bake evenly.
Step 7: Preheat and Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 13-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency with a bit more juice or powdered sugar, if needed.
Step 10: Glaze the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spoon or drizzle the glaze over the tops. Allow the glaze to set for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Enjoy these cookies with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk for a delightful snack or dessert.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks for a richer flavor.
- Nutty Twist: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped almonds or pistachios along with the chocolate chips.
- Citrus Medley: Add a combination of lemon and orange zest for a brighter citrus flavor.
- Holiday Flair: Sprinkle the glazed cookies with colored sugar or edible glitter for festive flair.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Use fresh zest: Fresh orange zest provides the best flavor—avoid using pre-packaged dried zest.
- Don’t skip chilling: Chilling the dough ensures the cookies don’t spread too much during baking.
- Mini chips work best: Mini chocolate chips evenly distribute chocolate flavor without overpowering the delicate texture of the cookies.
- Test the glaze: Adjust the consistency of the glaze as needed—it should be thick but pourable for easy application.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Mary Berry: “Adding citrus zest directly into sugar helps release the oils, enhancing the flavor of your bakes.”
- Claire Saffitz: “Fold ingredients gently to maintain a tender crumb in cookies with soft doughs like these.”
- Ina Garten: “Always bake one test cookie first—it helps you perfect the timing and size before baking the whole batch.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute ricotta with another cheese?
Mascarpone can be used for a similar texture, but ricotta is best for its unique flavor and moisture.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be chilled for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What if I don’t have fresh oranges?
Use high-quality orange extract in place of the zest and juice, but fresh oranges are recommended for the best flavor.
4. Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own, but the glaze enhances the orange flavor and adds sweetness.
5. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Ensure the dough is well-chilled and measure your flour accurately. Adding slightly more flour can help firm up the dough.
These orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies are a delightful treat that combine refreshing citrus notes with rich chocolate, making them perfect for any occasion. Soft, flavorful, and oh-so-lovable—these cookies are sure to become a favorite!