Published 11/26/2023 • Updated 11/5/2024 Let’s give a warm welcome to your new favorite Christmas cookies! These chocolate orange ricotta cookies put a delicious twist on the classic from our sister site, The Cheese Knees. We added dark chocolate and orange zest to give it an extra oomph of flavor and richness. So, how do we achieve this excellence? It’s easy. Just make your homemade cookie dough as usual but with the addition of orange zest and ricotta cheese. Then, refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours before baking them in the oven and dipping them in chocolate. Add a sprinkle of orange zest for a tasty finish, and viola — flavorful soft cookies that’ll be delicious any time of year!
What You Need for Italian Ricotta Cookies
Orange zest: orange zest is what gives these chocolate orange ricotta cookies that delicious orange flavor. Whole milk ricotta cheese: the secret ingredient for this recipe! It makes these cookies super moist, chewy, and delicious.
What Tools You’ll Need to Make It
Electric stand mixer: you’ll need an electric stand mixer to properly mix the cookie dough. Cooking rack: a cooling rack is necessary for cooling the cookies before dipping them in chocolate.
Variations for Ricotta Cookies
Orange zest: You’re welcome to use lemon zest instead of orange zest to make lemon ricotta cookies instead! Vanilla extract: Feel free to experiment with different flavor extracts like almond extract or coconut extract. Dark chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate chips would also make a great dipping for these cookies.
Storage + Freezer Directions
Store any leftover chocolate orange ricotta cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To freeze, place ricotta cookies in a freezer-safe, airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. We recommend separating the cookies in layers with wax or parchment paper.
Serving Suggestions with Ricotta Cookies
Want a delicious entree or appetizer to pair with these delicious cookies? We’ve got you! These chocolate orange ricotta cookies would be scrumptious as a dessert that follows these Crockpot Mashed Potatoes, Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese, or Turkey Wild Rice Soup.For appetizers, you can’t go wrong with this Avocado Hummus, Fresh Corn Salsa, or Buffalo Chicken Meatballs.
