Embark on a delicious journey with these refreshing Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies. They are the perfect blend of citrusy tang and sweet indulgence, making them a hit at any gathering.
Photos of Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Recipe
This recipe calls for some ingredients that you might not usually have on hand. The key not-so-common ingredient here is Ricotta Cheese, a delightful dairy product that originates from Italy. It carries a rich, creamy texture that binds the cookie dough together and imparts a distinct, soft texture to the cookie. Also, ensure that you get a fresh orange for the orange zest which boosts the flavor profile of these cookies.
Ingredients for Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for our cookies.
Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent to give our cookies some rise.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to our cookies.
Unsalted butter: Ensures a tender and rich texture.
Orange zest: Offers a burst of citrus flavor.
Egg: Acts as a binding agent.
Ricotta cheese: Gives our cookies moisture and a soft, light texture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds a hint of chocolatey goodness.
Powdered sugar: Used for the glaze.
Orange juice: Adds a tartness to the glaze.
One reader, Cordelie Creech says:
These orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies are a delightful surprise! The combination of zesty orange and rich chocolate chips is simply divine. The cookies are soft and fluffy, and the glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a unique and delicious treat!
Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Ricotta Cookies
How to zest an orange: Use a zester or a fine grater to remove the outer orange part of the peel. Be careful not to include the bitter white pith.
How to cream ingredients: Beat together the sugar, butter, and orange zest until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes.
How to chill dough: Cover the dough and place it in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours to allow it to firm up, making it easier to handle and shape.
How to glaze the cookies: Whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Spoon the glaze over the cooled cookies and allow it to set at room temperature.
How To Make Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
Munch on a batch of these creamy ricotta cookies, made with zesty orange, sweet ricotta cheese, and chocolate chips, for a tastier afternoon treat!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2cupsall-purpose flour,(scoop and level to measure)
- 1½tspbaking powder
- ¼tspsalt
- 1cupgranulated sugar
- ½cupunsalted butter,softened
- 1tbsporange zest,(from 2 large navel oranges), plus 1 tsp
- 1large egg
- 1cupricotta cheese,whole milk, such as Galbani
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 1cupmini semi-sweet chocolate chips
For Glaze:
- 1¼cupspowdered sugar
- 2½tbsporange juice,fresh
- 1tsporange zest,(about ½ navel orange)
Instructions
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In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for 20 seconds. Set aside.
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In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the sugar, butter, and 1 tablespoon and 1 teaspoon of orange zest until combined. Scrape the bowl as needed throughout mixing process.
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Mix in the egg, then blend in the ricotta and vanilla extract. Add in the flour mixture and mix until nearly combined then mix in chocolate chips.
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Cover the bowl and chill for 1 to 2 hours until it’s easier to work with.
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F during the last 20 minutes of dough chilling.
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Scoop the dough out using a medium cookie scoop or 2 spoons. Drop onto parchment paper or silicone liner-lined baking sheet, spacing the cookies 2-inches apart. Leave the remaining dough chilled.
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Bake the cookies in the oven for 13 to 14 minutes until almost set. Let cool on pan for several minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Repeat with the remaining dough, placing the dough on a cool baking sheet.
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For the glaze, in a small mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
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Spoon over the cooled cookies. Let the glaze set at room temperature.
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Serve and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- Don’t use dark cookie sheets for this recipe or the bottoms will burn.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Calories: 127.30kcal
- Fat: 5.24g
- Saturated Fat: 3.19g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.49g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.23g
- Carbohydrates: 19.06g
- Fiber: 0.51g
- Sugar: 12.74g
- Protein: 1.96g
- Cholesterol: 15.90mg
- Sodium: 41.37mg
- Calcium: 34.03mg
- Potassium: 38.96mg
- Iron: 0.57mg
- Vitamin A: 33.13µg
- Vitamin C: 0.86mg
Expert Tip for Achieving the Ideal Texture in Ricotta Cookies
When zesting the orange, make sure to only get the outermost, colored part of the peel. The white pith underneath is bitter and can negatively affect the flavor of your cookies. Using a microplane or zester can help you achieve this. Also, to ensure the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough, toss them in a little bit of flour before adding them to the mixture. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Recipe
Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to quickly and evenly portion out the dough onto the baking sheet.
Chill dough quickly: Place the dough in the freezer for 30 minutes to speed up the chilling process.
Bake in batches: While one batch is baking, prepare the next batch of cookies to maximize oven use and save time.
Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra dough for future use to save time on prep for your next baking session.
Substitute Ingredients For Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitution is suitable for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. It provides a gluten-free alternative while maintaining a similar texture and structure in the cookies.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the cookies. It also works well in baking and provides a moist and tender texture.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener that can be used as a healthier alternative to granulated sugar. It adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the cookies and has a lower glycemic index.
ricotta cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a lower-fat alternative to ricotta cheese, providing a tangy flavor and moist texture to the cookies. It also adds a protein boost to the recipe.
mini semi-sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be used as a fruity alternative to chocolate chips, adding a tart and sweet flavor to the cookies. They also provide a chewy texture and a pop of color.
How to Beautifully Present These Delightful Cookies
Elevate the cookie: Gently place the cookie on a pristine white plate, ensuring it is centered and perfectly aligned.
Garnish with orange zest: Sprinkle a delicate touch of freshly grated orange zest over the glazed cookies to add a pop of color and a burst of citrus aroma.
Arrange in a circular pattern: Place the cookies in a circular formation, creating a visually appealing and inviting presentation that showcases the vibrant glaze and chocolate chips.
Add a touch of elegance with a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a fine layer of powdered sugar to create a sophisticated and refined backdrop for the cookies.
Serve with a side of fresh berries: Accompany the cookies with a small side of assorted fresh berries for a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookie.
Drizzle with a chocolate ganache: Create an artistic drizzle of decadent chocolate ganache over the cookies, adding a luxurious touch and enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Present on a decorative platter: Place the cookies on an ornate platter adorned with intricate designs, elevating the overall presentation and adding a touch of grandeur.
Incorporate edible flowers for a touch of sophistication: Integrate delicate and edible flowers such as pansies or violets to add a touch of elegance and a visually stunning element to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
- Mixing bowl: A large, round, deep dish used for mixing ingredients together.
- Electric mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
- Cookie scoop: A utensil used to portion out cookie dough, ensuring even-sized cookies.
- Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans.
- Wire rack: A metal rack used for cooling baked goods and allowing air to circulate around them.
- Small mixing bowl: A smaller-sized bowl used for mixing and whisking ingredients for glaze.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for scraping, spreading, and lifting ingredients.
Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will keep fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To extend their shelf life, store the cooled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. If desired, you can refresh the cookies by placing them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges.
- If you want to freeze the cookie dough for later baking, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. When ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls on a prepared baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the frozen dough.
How To Reheat Leftover Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
To reheat leftover orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crisp around the edges. This method will help restore the texture and flavor of the cookies, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the cookies to become soggy or rubbery. To maintain a slightly crisp texture, you can place the microwaved cookies in the oven for a minute or two after reheating.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on the toaster oven rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cookies are warmed through and slightly crisp. This method is perfect for reheating small batches of cookies without having to preheat a full-sized oven.
If you want to enjoy your leftover orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies with a slightly softer texture, try wrapping them in a damp paper towel before microwaving. The moisture from the paper towel will help soften the cookies as they reheat. Microwave the wrapped cookies for 10-15 seconds, or until they reach your desired temperature.
For a more indulgent treat, try reheating your leftover cookies in a skillet with a small amount of butter. Melt a small pat of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and slightly crisp. The butter will add a rich, delicious flavor to the already tasty cookies.
Fascinating Trivia About Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
The cookies are a delightful combination of citrusy orange and rich chocolate flavors, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Is Making Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients are commonly found in households, and the recipe yields a generous batch. The use of ricotta cheese and orange zest adds a touch of sophistication without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $10-$15, making it an affordable treat. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is a solid 8/10, considering the delightful combination of flavors and the reasonable cost.
Are Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The orange chocolate chip ricotta cookies recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of sugar (1 cup granulated sugar and 1¼ cups powdered sugar for the glaze), which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly.
- The use of all-purpose flour lacks the nutritional benefits of whole grain alternatives.
- Butter and chocolate chips add saturated fat and additional sugar to the cookies.
However, the inclusion of ricotta cheese does provide some protein and calcium, and the orange zest offers a small amount of vitamin C and fiber.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the cookie dough and the glaze, or experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase fiber content and nutritional value.
- Use dark chocolate chips with a higher percentage of cocoa (70% or above) to reduce sugar and increase antioxidants.
- Incorporate additional orange zest for more flavor and nutrients.
- Serve the cookies in moderation as part of a balanced diet, paired with fresh fruit or a glass of low-fat milk.
Editor's Opinion: Why I Love This Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookie Recipe
The combination of orange zest, ricotta, and chocolate chips in these cookies creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The addition of the orange glaze adds a refreshing citrusy touch that complements the richness of the chocolate and the creaminess of the ricotta. The recipe's instructions are clear and easy to follow, resulting in perfectly baked, tender cookies. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to indulge in a unique and delicious treat.
Enhance Your Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies
Ideal Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Recipe
Why trust this Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cookies Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the zesty essence of orange zest with the richness of ricotta cheese. The use of mini semi-sweet chocolate chips adds a delightful touch of sweetness. The glaze, made with orange juice and orange zest, provides a refreshing and citrusy finish. With a perfect balance of textures and flavors, these cookies are sure to impress. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and the meticulous attention to detail in this recipe.
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