Name: Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 134 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 1 tablespoon baking powder (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1 pinch salt (Enhances flavor.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Sweetens the cookies.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Make sure it's softened.); 1 large orange zest (Infuses citrus flavor.); 1 large egg (Binds ingredients together.); 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (Provides moisture and richness.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances sweetness.); 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (Feel free to swap with dark or milk chocolate chips.); 1 cup powdered sugar (Creates a sweet finishing touch.); 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (Adds citrus flavor to the glaze.); 1 tablespoon additional orange zest (Complements the glaze.)

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There’s something magical about the first bite of a warm cookie fresh from the oven, especially when it’s an Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookie. With each nibble, the sweet citrus and rich chocolate collide, creating an irresistible treat that truly celebrates the spirit of the season. These delightful cookies aren’t just a feast for the taste buds; they’re enriched with ricotta, giving them an ultra-moist texture that sets them apart from your standard cookie options. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, these treats come together quickly, making baking a joyful experience rather than a chore. Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a holiday wonderland with this unique recipe?

What makes these cookies so special?

Moisture and Flavor: The secret ingredient, ricotta cheese, creates an incredibly moist texture that keeps these cookies fresh and delightful. Sweet Citrus Burst: Fresh orange zest infuses every bite with brightness, perfectly complementing the rich chocolate chips. Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these treats in no time, making them perfect for unexpected holiday guests. Versatility at Its Best: Feel free to customize by adding nuts or substituting chocolate chips with dried cranberries for an extra twist! Festive Delight: Ideal for cookie exchanges or gifting, these cookies will surely steal the show at any gathering. Whether you serve them alongside a warm mug of cocoa or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, you’ll definitely want to check out our other recipes like Chocolate Chip Cookies or Cinnamon Sugar Chips for more delicious treats!

Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Ingredients

Embrace the cozy delights of holiday baking with these essential ingredients.

For the Cookies

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring fluffy cookies.
Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness beautifully.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve that tender, soft texture.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Orange zest – Infuses a vibrant citrus flavor; substitute with lemon zest for a different twist.
Large egg – Binds all the ingredients together, contributing to the cookies’ structure.
Whole milk ricotta cheese – Provides moisture and richness, crucial for achieving those soft, chewy chocolate chip ricotta cookies. You can substitute with mascarpone for a unique flavor.
Vanilla extract – Introduces depth and enhances sweetness.
Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips – Delivers delicious bursts of chocolaty goodness; feel free to swap them with dark or milk chocolate chips based on preference.

For the Glaze

Powdered sugar – Creates a sweet finishing touch for the cookies.
Fresh orange juice – Adds citrus flavor to the glaze; fresh is always best for bright taste.
Additional orange zest – Complements the glaze with a refreshing citrus brightness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until combined. This blend will form the foundation of your chocolate chip ricotta cookies, so make sure there are no lumps. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients, ensuring everything is ready for a smooth mixing process.

Step 2: Cream Wet Ingredients
Using a stand mixer, cream together 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, and the zest of 1 large orange. Mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which indicates it’s aerated properly. The delightful aroma of orange will fill your kitchen, signaling a delicious blend is underway!

Step 3: Combine Egg and Ricotta
Add 1 large egg, 1 cup of whole milk ricotta cheese, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat on medium speed until everything is fully incorporated and smooth—about 1-2 minutes. The ricotta adds moisture and richness to the chocolate chip ricotta cookies, making them uniquely soft and indulgent.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can affect the cookie’s texture. Finally, gently fold in 1 cup of mini semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, ready for baking.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate the dough for 1-2 hours. Chilling is crucial for the chocolate chip ricotta cookies, as it firms up the dough and makes it easier to handle while ensuring they won’t spread too much during baking. The anticipation builds as the flavors meld together!

Step 6: Preheat Oven
About 20 minutes before the dough is done chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect soft-chewy texture. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Aim for around 12 cookies per sheet, which allows for plenty of room to expand. The dough will look soft and slightly sticky—this is perfect for your orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies!

Step 8: Bake Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 13-14 minutes. The edges should look set and lightly golden, while the centers will remain soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, as you want that tender texture that ricotta brings out in these delightful cookies.

Step 9: Prepare Glaze
While the cookies cool, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice, and additional zest from the orange in a small bowl. This glaze will provide a sweet and zesty finish to the orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies. Aim for a smooth, pourable consistency, adjusting with more juice or sugar as needed.

Step 10: Set Glaze
Once the cookies have cooled for about 5-10 minutes on the baking sheets, transfer them to wire racks. Drizzle the glaze over cooled cookies and allow it to set at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This final touch brings both flavor and festive cheer to your cookies, perfect for any holiday occasion!

What to Serve with Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

Nothing complements the joy of baking than pairing delightful treats with rich, comforting sides that create a memorable meal.

Rich Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa amplifies the deliciousness of these cookies, enhancing the sweet and citrusy flavors with creamy chocolate bliss.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the warm, soft cookies and highlights their citrus notes, creating a comforting dessert experience.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing crunch and light sweetness, making it a bright and colorful contrast to the rich cookies.
Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses paired with the natural sweetness of these cookies creates a delightful tasting experience, especially with a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai tea elevate the festive spirit and enhance the flavors of the orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies, creating a superb cozy pairing.
Sparkling Water with Lime: This fizzy beverage cuts through the richness of the cookies with its bright citrus notes, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet indulgence.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: For an extra twist, dust the cookies lightly with cinnamon sugar before serving to enhance the warmth and spice of this holiday treat.

These pairings create not only a full meal experience but also an inviting atmosphere perfect for celebrating the season with loved ones.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

Airtight Container: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their moisture and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to freezer-safe bags and store for up to 3 months.

Glazing Tip: If you plan to freeze the cookies, avoid glazing them beforehand. Drizzle glaze over thawed cookies for optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating: For a freshly-baked taste, reheat thawed cookies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

Make Ahead Options

These Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and chilling the dough in the refrigerator. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the dough firm for easy handling. If you want to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the shaped dough balls for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough directly on a baking sheet and add 1-2 minutes to the baking time. Enjoy freshly baked cookies without the last-minute rush!

Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies to suit your taste!

Cranberry Delight: Substitute chocolate chips with dried cranberries for a sweet and tart twist that adds festive flair.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. These bits offer a lovely texture contrast to the soft cookies.
Almond Extract: Experiment by adding a splash of almond extract to the mix; it’ll elevate the flavor profile and add a lovely nuttiness.
Zesty Lemon: Swap orange zest for lemon zest for a fresh, tangy citrus note. Each bite will bring bright flavors that sing of spring.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, providing warmth and a hint of spice perfect for the colder months.
Chocolate Lovers’: For an indulgent take, replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer taste. It’s a satisfying upgrade that chocolate aficionados will adore.
Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier option, swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds a nuttier flavor and increases the fiber content.
Chili Chocolate: For those who like it hot, mix in a touch of cayenne pepper with the cookie dough. The subtle heat pairs beautifully with the sweetness and chocolate.

Each of these variations adds a unique touch to your cookies, allowing you to surprise your family and friends each time! And while you’re at it, consider joining them with other delightful recipes like our Chocolate Banana Protein smoothies for a guilt-free treat.

Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

Chill Dough Properly: Ensure you chill the dough for 1-2 hours; this prevents excessive spreading and helps maintain the perfect texture of your cookies.
Choose Light Baking Sheets: Opt for light-colored baking sheets to avoid burnt bottoms. Dark sheets can cause uneven baking and a bitter taste.
Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, delightful chocolate chip ricotta cookies.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking times—13-14 minutes is ideal. The edges should be set but the centers need to remain soft for that heavenly texture.
Glisten with Glaze: For a beautiful finish, drizzle the glaze over the cookies after they have cooled completely; this ensures a smooth and appealing appearance without being sticky.

Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Recipe FAQs

What could I use as a substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you’re looking to switch things up, mascarpone cheese is a fantastic alternative. It offers a similar creamy texture and moisture without compromising flavor. You could also try cottage cheese, but I recommend blending it until smooth for the best results.

How can I tell if my oranges are fresh?
Absolutely! Look for oranges that are heavy for their size and have smooth skin, avoiding any with dark spots or blemishes. Fresh oranges will have a bright color and a firm feel, which means they’re bursting with juicy goodness, perfect for your zest and juice!

What is the best way to store the cookies?
To keep your Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies fresh and moist, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, they can be frozen—just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

How do I freeze the cookies properly?
Freezing these cookies is a great idea! Allow the baked cookies to cool completely, then lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to freezer-safe bags, sealing out as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Very! You can definitely substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure it contains a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to maintain the cookies’ lovely texture.

What if my dough is too sticky to manage?
No worries! If your dough seems too sticky, try refrigerating it for a bit longer, around 20-30 more minutes, until it firms up. Alternatively, dust your hands with a little flour while shaping the cookies to make handling easier. Remember, a little stickiness is a sign of those wonderfully chewy cookies to come!