Name: Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp orange zest; 1 tbsp fresh orange juice; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

I love making Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies when I want something soft, fragrant, and a little different from the usual cookie. The ricotta makes them incredibly tender, the orange adds brightness, and the chocolate chips bring just the right touch of sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because the cookies stay moist and cake-like without being heavy. The citrus flavor makes them feel fresh and unique, and the chocolate balances everything perfectly. I also enjoy how simple the ingredients are, yet the result feels bakery-quality. Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
baking powder
salt
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
ricotta cheese
eggs
vanilla extract
orange zest
orange juice
semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, I cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. I mix in the ricotta cheese until smooth, then add the eggs, vanilla extract, orange zest, and a splash of orange juice.

I gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. I fold in the chocolate chips.

I scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. I let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 20 to 24 cookies from this recipe.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 12 to 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes drizzle the cooled cookies with a light orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. When I want a deeper citrus flavor, I add a bit of lemon zest as well. I also enjoy using dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.

storage/reheating

I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I let refrigerated cookies come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Do ricotta cookies taste like cheese?

I find the ricotta adds moisture and tenderness without a strong cheese flavor.

Can I use part-skim ricotta?

I use whole milk ricotta for the best texture, but part-skim works too.

Why are my cookies so soft?

I expect them to be soft and cake-like because of the ricotta.

Can I freeze the dough?

I freeze scooped dough portions and bake them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.

Can I make these without chocolate chips?

I sometimes skip the chocolate chips for a pure orange ricotta cookie.

Conclusion

I keep Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies in my baking rotation because they’re soft, flavorful, and just a little unexpected. Every time I make them, they bring a bright citrus aroma and a tender bite that’s hard to resist.