Orange Cranberry Ricotta Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s bursting with bright citrus flavors and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, you’re in for a treat! These Orange Cranberry Ricotta Cookies are truly something special. Right after you bite into one, you’ll be greeted by the zesty orange and the subtle sweetness of dried cranberries. The secret ingredient, ricotta cheese, lends an incredible moisture and tenderness that sets these cookies apart from the rest.

But wait, I’m just getting started! These cookies also come with a delicate orange glaze, which gives them an extra zing of citrus flavor. You’ll want to make these time and again, whether for family gatherings, holiday treats, or just because you deserve something sweet.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Bright and Fresh Flavor: The combination of orange zest and juice makes these cookies irresistibly refreshing.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Thanks to the ricotta cheese, these cookies have a pillowy, tender crumb.
• Festive and Versatile: These cookies are perfect for holiday parties but also easy enough for an everyday sweet fix.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and simple steps, these cookies are beginner-friendly yet impressive.

Ingredients for Orange Cranberry Ricotta Cookies

Let’s break down the ingredients to understand why they work together so well:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Adds moisture and a tender texture, keeping the cookies soft.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – The base fat that gives these cookies their richness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with the cookie’s tender structure.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binder and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and adds warmth.
• Zest of 1 orange – The zest provides that punch of citrus freshness.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The structural foundation of the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise slightly for a light texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Also helps with leavening but gives a chewier texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
• 1 cup dried cranberries – Adds a tart, chewy contrast to the sweet and soft cookies.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze) – Gives the glaze a smooth, sweet finish.
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (for glaze) – Adds brightness to the glaze, complementing the zest.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Orange Cranberry Ricotta Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven

First things first—get your oven ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Keep mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating air pockets in the dough, which results in soft and tender cookies.

3. Add Ricotta and Egg

Once the butter and sugar are creamed, mix in the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest. The ricotta cheese not only makes the dough extra creamy, but it also imparts a subtle richness that complements the citrus.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually, add the dry ingredients to the ricotta mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want the cookies to stay soft and tender! Fold in the dried cranberries gently. They add little bursts of tartness that balance the sweetness of the dough.

6. Scoop the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. The dough will spread a bit as it bakes, so give them room to breathe.

7. Bake the Cookies

Pop your cookies into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look a bit underdone, but don’t worry—they’ll firm up as they cool.

8. Prepare the Glaze

While your cookies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and slightly runny, perfect for drizzling!

9. Glaze the Cookies

Once your cookies have completely cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over the top of each cookie. The glaze will set beautifully, giving the cookies an extra touch of sweetness and citrus flavor.

Tips for Making Perfect Ricotta Cookies

• Don’t Overbake: Ricotta cookies are meant to be soft, so make sure to take them out when the edges are golden, but the centers are still a little pale.
• Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice makes all the difference for the glaze, bringing out the most natural citrus flavor.
• Chill the Dough for a Firmer Cookie: If you prefer your cookies a bit firmer, chill the dough for 30 minutes before scooping.

What to Serve with These Cookies

These cookies are great on their own, but if you’re looking to elevate them further:

• Tea or Coffee: The citrus notes pair perfectly with a cup of Earl Grey or a light-roast coffee.
• Holiday Platters: Add them to a holiday cookie platter alongside gingerbread, shortbread, or chocolate-dipped biscotti.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies in a single layer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and glaze before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but fresh cranberries will add more moisture, so you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on them to prevent sogginess.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

For a different twist, you can try mascarpone or cream cheese, though the texture will change slightly.

Conclusion

These Orange Cranberry Ricotta Cookies are a delightful combination of citrusy freshness and rich, soft textures. The addition of cranberries gives them just the right amount of tartness to balance the sweet, and the orange glaze takes it to the next level. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your kitchen.

I can’t wait to see how your cookies turn out! Don’t forget to leave a review and share your cookie creations on Pinterest!

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