Soft Italian Orange Ricotta Cookies

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Soft Italian Orange Ricotta Cookies – Light, Citrusy & Perfect for Sweet Moments

These tender ricotta cookies are infused with fresh orange zest and topped with a dreamy glaze or frosting. A timeless Italian treat with a bright twist.

Introduction: A Cookie That Feels Like Home

Some cookies are more than just sweets—they’re memories. These Soft Italian Orange Ricotta Cookies are inspired by traditional Italian baking, where ricotta adds moisture and tenderness, and citrus brings a burst of sunshine. They’re soft, cake-like, and delicately flavored, making them perfect for spring gatherings, holiday trays, or quiet afternoon tea.

Whether you glaze them with orange icing or frost them with cream cheese, these cookies are versatile, elegant, and irresistibly comforting.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so special:

For the Cookies:

  • Ricotta cheese (½ cup + 3 tbsp, room temp)
    Adds moisture and a tender crumb—use whole milk ricotta for best texture.
  • Granulated sugar (½ cup + 1 tbsp)
    Sweetens the dough and helps create a light golden crust.
  • Butter (2 tbsp, softened)
    Adds richness—use unsalted and adjust salt accordingly.
  • Egg (1 large, room temp)
    Binds the dough and adds structure.
  • Vanilla extract (½ tsp)
    Adds warmth and depth.
  • Orange zest (1 tbsp)
    Infuses the cookies with bright citrus flavor.
  • All-purpose flour (1¾ cups, high protein)
    Provides structure—look for flour with at least 11% protein.
  • Baking powder (1 tsp)
    Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
  • Salt (pinch or ¼ tsp if using unsalted butter)
    Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

For the Orange Glaze (Optional):

  • Powdered sugar (1 cup)
    Creates a smooth, glossy finish.
  • Heavy cream or whole milk (½–1 tbsp)
    Adjusts consistency.
  • Fresh orange juice (½–1 tbsp)
    Adds flavor and brightness.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):

  • Cream cheese (½ cup, softened)
    Rich and tangy—pairs beautifully with citrus.
  • Butter (2 tbsp)
    Adds creaminess and helps the frosting set.
  • Powdered sugar (1¼ cups)
    Sweetens and thickens.
  • Vanilla extract (½ tsp)
    Adds warmth and balance.

Optional: Add a splash of orange juice to either topping for extra brightness.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Zester or grater
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl:

  • Beat ricotta, granulated sugar, and softened butter until smooth and creamy.

Add:

  • Egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest

Mix until fully combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:

  • Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture.

Mix just until combined—don’t overwork the dough.

Step 3: Chill

Cover dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Tip: Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.

Step 4: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5: Shape & Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.

Bake for 12–14 minutes, until:

  • Bottoms are lightly golden
  • Tops are set but still pale

Let cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Glaze or Frost

Choose your topping:

Orange Glaze

Whisk together:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½–1 tbsp cream or milk
  • ½–1 tbsp orange juice

Drizzle over cooled cookies.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together:

  • ½ cup cream cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1¼ cups powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla

Spread or pipe onto cookies.

Optional: Decorate with sprinkles, zest, or edible flowers.

Yields:

  • 22 cookies

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Spring brunch
  • Easter dessert trays
  • Afternoon tea
  • Holiday cookie swaps

Pair with:

  • Chamomile or Earl Grey tea
  • Sparkling citrus water
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Presentation Tip: Serve on a vintage platter with orange slices and mint sprigs.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Swap orange zest and juice for lemon.

Chocolate Chip Citrus

Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.

Almond Orange

Add almond extract and chopped almonds.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based ricotta, butter, and egg replacer.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
  • Refrigerate: Store baked cookies in airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze fresh.

Tip: Glaze or frost just before serving for best texture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 22)

  • Calories: ~120
  • Protein: ~2g
  • Carbohydrates: ~14g
  • Fat: ~6g
  • Sugar: ~8g
  • Sodium: ~60mg
  • Fiber: ~0.5g

These cookies are:

  • Soft and citrusy
  • Light and tender
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Soft Italian Orange Ricotta Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of flavor, tradition, and sweet moments. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just for yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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