Sweet Citrus Magic: Orange Ricotta Cookies Recipe

Sweet and zesty orange ricotta cookies have been my secret weapon for delighting guests at every gathering.

Soft clouds of delicate pastry melt against your tongue with creamy richness.

citrus notes dance playfully through each tender bite, creating a delightful sensory experience.

Mediterranean baking traditions inspire this simple yet elegant treat that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

Delicate crumbs practically whisper promises of pure enjoyment waiting just moments away.

Fragrant orange zest gives these cookies a bright, unexpected charm that makes them irresistible.

You’ll want to savor every single morsel of this delightful confection.

FAQs

• Are these cookies soft or crispy?

These cookies are soft and cake-like with a delicate texture, thanks to the ricotta cheese in the recipe.

• Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute the chocolate chips with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips based on your preference.

• What does the candied peel add to the cookies?

The candied peel provides a bright, citrusy burst of flavor that complements the chocolate and enhances the overall taste of the cookies.

• How do I know when the cookies are perfectly baked?

Look for golden edges and a set center. The cookies should be slightly firm but not hard when you touch them.

Citrus Chocolate Treat: Why It’s a Winner

• Whip Up Quickly: Super simple recipe that anyone can master, even beginner bakers can nail these delightful citrus chocolate cookies with minimal kitchen skills.
• Burst with Flavor: Unique combination of rich chocolate chips and bright orange zest creates a sophisticated taste profile that surprises and delights taste buds.
• Family-Friendly Treat: Perfect for sharing with loved ones, these cookies offer a crowd-pleasing dessert that appeals to both kids and adults with their delectable mix of sweet and tangy notes.
• Versatile Occasion Dessert: Ideal for casual gatherings, afternoon tea, potlucks, or as a homemade gift, these cookies work beautifully for multiple social settings and celebrations.

Citrus Chocolate Treat Ingredient Lineup

• Ricotta: A soft, creamy cheese that provides moisture and richness to the cookies.
• Butter: Adds flavor and helps create a tender texture in the cookies.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps with caramelization during baking.
• Flour: The primary structure-building ingredient for the cookie dough.

• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure to the cookies.
• Vanilla: Provides a warm, classic background flavor to the dessert.
• Orange Zest: Brings a bright, citrusy note that complements the chocolate.
• Chocolate Chips: Adds pockets of rich, melty chocolate throughout the cookies.
• Candied Peel: Introduces an extra layer of citrusy sweetness and texture.

• Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.

Simple Path to Citrus Chocolate Goodness

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F (175C), getting ready for some baking magic.

Step 2: Prep the Baking Surface

Grab a baking sheet and drape it with parchment paper, creating a non-stick wonderland for your cookies.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Base

• Ricotta cheese
• Softened butter
• Granulated sugar

Beat until the mixture looks light and fluffy.

• One egg
• Vanilla extract
• Fresh orange zest

Blend until everything is beautifully combined.

Step 4: Create Dry Ingredient Blend

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Gently mix these dry ingredients together.

Step 5: Marry Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly incorporate dry ingredients into the creamy mixture.

Stir carefully to keep the batter smooth.

• Chocolate chips
• Candied citrus peel

Step 6: Shape Cookie Clusters

Using a tablespoon, dollop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.

Space them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.

Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Watch them transform into delectable treats ready to be devoured.

Tricks for Citrus Choco Treat Magic

• Use fresh orange zest for maximum citrusy flavor, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
• Fold chocolate chips gently to prevent overmixing and ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
• Don't overbake cookies; remove from oven when edges are golden for soft, tender centers.
• Let ingredients like ricotta and butter reach room temperature for smoother, more uniform mixing.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Fresh Twists for Chocolate Citrus Fans

• Lemon Lavender Delight: Replace orange zest with lemon zest and add dried lavender flowers for a fragrant herbal touch.
• Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Option: Swap regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend to accommodate wheat-sensitive diets.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut oil instead of butter and substitute ricotta with cashew cream for a plant-based version.
• Low-Sugar Version: Replace sugar with monk fruit sweetener and use dark chocolate chips with higher cocoa content for reduced sugar content.

Citrus Chocolate – Perfect Pairing Ideas

• Brunch Bliss Pairing: Serve these delightful cookies alongside a light citrus mimosa or freshly brewed orange-infused coffee for a zesty morning treat.
• Dessert Companion: Complement the cookies with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of whipped cream sprinkled with orange zest for an elegant dessert experience.
• Tea Time Delight: Create a charming afternoon tea spread by arranging these cookies on a vintage platter with lemon-lavender herbal tea, perfect for sharing with friends.
• Gift-Worthy Presentation: Package these cookies in a rustic kraft paper box with a ribbon, making them a thoughtful homemade gift for birthdays or holiday celebrations.

Storing Citrus Choco Treats the Smart Way

• Store cookies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days, maintaining their soft texture and citrusy flavor.
• Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe ziplock bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, preserving their delicate chocolate and orange essence.
• Place cookies in a sealed container with a loose-fitting lid. Keep at room temperature for 2-3 days, ensuring they remain fresh and crisp.
• Warm cookies gently in a preheated oven at 300F for 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their just-baked warmth and softness.

Orange Ricotta Cookies Recipe

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4.6 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Delightful Orange Ricotta Cookies bring zesty Italian charm to your dessert table. Pillowy pastries blend citrus brightness with creamy richness, promising a sweet escape you’ll savor with each tender bite.

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Ingredients

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Citrus Chocolate Treat Ingredients

Primary Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Dairy and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Flavor and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1/2 cup candied orange peel (optional)

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Cream ricotta, softened butter, and sugar until light and airy using an electric mixer.
3. Incorporate egg, vanilla extract, and freshly grated orange zest into the creamy mixture.
4. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate mixing bowl.
5. Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, creating a smooth, consistent dough.
6. Carefully blend chocolate chips and finely chopped candied citrus peel into the cookie batter.
7. Portion dough into rounded tablespoons, spacing each dollop 2 inches apart on the prepared sheet.
8. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until edges turn golden brown.
9. Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set their structure.
10. Transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack, letting them reach complete room temperature for optimal texture.

Notes

• Enhance Texture by ensuring butter and ricotta are room temperature for smoother mixing and consistent cookie texture.
• Customize Flavor by experimenting with different chocolate types like dark, milk, or white chocolate to match personal preferences.
• Adjust Zest Intensity by varying orange zest quantity, allowing control over citrus notes without overwhelming the chocolate’s richness.
• Make Gluten-Free by substituting regular flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend for those with dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 405
• Sugar: 29 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg