Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

If you’re a cookie enthusiast like me, you’re always on the lookout for a new twist on the classics. And let me tell you, these Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies are a game changer! With the creamy texture of ricotta and the vibrant zest of oranges, each bite is an explosion of flavor that will have you reaching for another. They’re perfectly soft, slightly chewy, and full of delightful chocolatey goodness. What more could you want in a cookie? Grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of orange and chocolate, and when you add ricotta to the mix, it takes these cookies to a whole new level. The ricotta cheese adds moisture and richness, making these cookies incredibly soft and tender. Plus, the fresh orange zest brightens up the flavor profile, creating a balanced treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just indulging yourself, these cookies will impress everyone who gets a taste!

Ingredient List

To make these delightful Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups (284g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)
• 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 (I recommend Galbani)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (165g) mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 1/4 cups (154g) powdered sugar
• 2 1/2 Tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp orange zest (about 1/2 navel orange)

Tools of the Trade

Before we start baking, let’s gather our essential tools:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: To aerate the flour and mix the batter smoothly.
• Rubber Spatula: For folding ingredients together without deflating the batter.
• Baking Sheet: A large, flat surface for baking multiple cookies at once.
• Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Cooling Rack: To cool the cookies and maintain their texture.

Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies in Steps

Ready to bake? Here’s how to make these scrumptious Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies in just a few easy steps!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout the flour.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The fluffy texture is key to achieving those soft cookies!

Step 5: Add Egg and Ricotta

Add the egg, ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and orange zest to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined. The ricotta is what makes these cookies so moist, so don’t skimp on this step!

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips using a rubber spatula. You want to ensure an even distribution without breaking the chips.

Step 8: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.

Step 10: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies for that extra burst of flavor!

Better-for-You Options

If you’re looking to make some healthier substitutions, consider these options:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• Reduced-Sugar Option: You can cut the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup without compromising the texture.
• Greek Yogurt: Swap out ricotta for Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative while still maintaining moisture.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor and less sugar.

Mistakes That Ruin Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

To ensure your Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not measuring flour correctly: Always scoop and level your flour to avoid dense cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and tender.
• Using cold butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for proper creaming.
• Baking on a hot baking sheet: Allow the baking sheet to cool between batches to prevent spreading.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Storing your Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies properly will keep them fresh and delicious:

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating: Reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their softness.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes! You can substitute with mascarpone or even cream cheese for a different flavor, but adjust the moisture content if needed.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and shape.

Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the quantity of chocolate chips accordingly.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Don’t Miss These

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love:

• Lemon Blueberry Cookies
• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Hungry for More?

If these Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies have sparked your interest in baking, be sure to explore more of my favorite recipes. There’s a whole world of flavors waiting for you to discover!

The delightful combination of orange and chocolate in these Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies will make them a standout treat in your baking repertoire. They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying all to yourself with a cup of tea or coffee. Happy baking!