Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies

I love baking these orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies when I want something soft, tender, and bursting with bright citrus flavor. The ricotta makes the cookies incredibly moist and delicate, while the orange zest and chocolate chips create a perfect balance of freshness and sweetness. I find them ideal for holidays, afternoon treats, or whenever I want a cookie that feels a little extra special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how pillowy and soft these cookies turn out every time. The ricotta gives them a cake-like texture that stays moist for days.

I also enjoy the flavor combination. The orange adds a vibrant, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with rich chocolate chips. It’s a refreshing twist on classic chocolate chip 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, softened
granulated sugar
large eggs
ricotta cheese
vanilla extract
orange zest
fresh orange juice
semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.

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

3. In a separate large bowl, I cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. I add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

5. I blend in the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice until smooth.

6. I gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

7. I gently fold in the chocolate chips.

8. I drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

9. I bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.

10. I let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes drizzle a simple orange glaze over the cooled cookies for extra citrus flavor. If I want a deeper chocolate taste, I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.

For added texture, I mix in chopped toasted almonds. I also enjoy adding a small pinch of cinnamon for warmth.

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.

If I want to refresh them, I warm them in the microwave for about 8–10 seconds. I can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use part-skim ricotta?

Yes, I can use part-skim ricotta, though whole milk ricotta gives a richer texture.

Do I need to drain the ricotta?

If the ricotta seems watery, I lightly drain it to prevent the dough from becoming too soft.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, I scoop the dough into portions and freeze them. I bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.

How do I enhance the orange flavor?

I add extra orange zest or a tiny drop of orange extract for a stronger citrus note.

Why are these cookies so soft?

The ricotta adds moisture and tenderness, giving them their signature soft, cake-like texture.

Conclusion

I truly enjoy making these orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies because they combine soft texture with bright citrus and rich chocolate flavor. They feel unique yet comforting at the same time. Whenever I want a cookie that stands out from the classic version, this is the recipe I love to bake.

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