Save These ricotta chocolate chip cookies are the ultimate answer to your bake sale or afternoon snack cravings. The ricotta makes each bite irresistibly tender while pockets of melty chocolate deliver pure comfort. No cookie has ever lasted more than a day in my kitchen with this recipe around.
When I first discovered ricotta in cookies, I was hooked after the first batch. Now anytime I have leftover ricotta, my family begs for these. They have become our rainy day treat tradition.
Ingredients
- Whole milk ricotta cheese: gives the cookies their signature softness The fresher the ricotta the better
- Unsalted butter: creates a rich base Always start with butter at room temperature for easy mixing
- Granulated sugar and light brown sugar: make sure every bite is sweet and balanced The touch of brown sugar adds a subtle caramel warmth
- Large egg: binds the dough together and ensures a tender crumb Use fresh eggs for best results
- Pure vanilla extract: rounds out the flavor profile Look for real vanilla not imitation
- All purpose flour: brings structure to the cookies Make sure to spoon and level for accurate measurement
- Baking powder and baking soda: provide lift and lightness
- Fine sea salt: makes all the flavors pop
- Semisweet chocolate chips: deliver gooey chocolate moments Use a quality brand for bigger pockets of chocolate
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie release
- Cream Ricotta and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl blend the ricotta cheese softened butter granulated sugar and brown sugar together for at least two minutes The mixture should look very light and fluffy This step helps aerate the dough and ensures cookies are soft
- Add Egg and Vanilla:
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract Mix well until everything is fully combined For the best texture do not rush this step
- Whisk Dry Ingredients Separately:
- In another bowl whisk the flour baking powder baking soda and fine sea salt together This makes sure the leavening agents and salt are evenly dispersed
- Combine Wet and Dry Mix Gently:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the ricotta mixture Mixing on low or by hand prevents tough cookies Only mix until you no longer see dry flour
- Fold in Chocolate Chips:
- Gently fold the semisweet chocolate chips into the dough Use a spatula to avoid overmixing which can make cookies dense
- Scoop the Dough:
- Using a tablespoon gently drop balls of dough onto your lined baking trays Leave about two inches between each for spreading
- Bake:
- Bake for twelve to fourteen minutes The cookies should have set edges but centers will still look a bit soft Do not overbake
- Cool the Cookies:
- Let the cookies rest on the sheet for five minutes then use a spatula to move them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely This helps maintain their delicate centers
Save My absolute favorite ingredient is the ricotta It makes these cookies almost cake like and every time I serve them at gatherings friends are shocked when I share the secret. Once my niece decided these beat every bakery treat she had ever tried.
Storage Tips
These cookies keep their softness best when stored in an airtight tin or container at room temperature If you want them to last longer add a slice of bread to the container to keep them moist You can also freeze the baked cookies just let them cool then store in freezer bags Lay flat to prevent sticking
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of ricotta try using full fat cottage cheese blended smooth for a similar texture Chocolate chips are totally flexible Swap in dark chocolate for a richer taste or white chocolate for a sweeter twist Gluten free flour blend can replace all purpose flour in equal measure just keep an eye on bake time as it may vary slightly
Serving Suggestions
For a festive touch dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar Pair with a cup of strong coffee or milk for an afternoon pick me up Sandwich two cookies around a spoonful of ice cream to make dessert even more special
Cultural Context
Ricotta cookies are an Italian American bakery staple They turn dessert into an everyday treat This version with chocolate chips gives a nod to classic American chocolate chip cookies with some Old World charm Serving them during holidays or family gatherings always sparks conversation about family traditions and baking memories
Seasonal Adaptations
Add lemon or orange zest for sunny brightness in spring or summertime Mix in chopped dried cranberries and white chocolate chips for winter holidays Sprinkle a little cinnamon or cardamom for cozy autumn flavor
Notes
You can double the batch and freeze half for unexpected guests Letting the cookies cool fully before storing prevents sogginess The dough can be made a day ahead and kept in the fridge for super easy bake and serve
Success Stories
These cookies have saved many a bake sale for me as they are quick to whip up and always the first to go A neighbor once asked for the recipe and now brings them to every neighborhood potluck Even my chocolate chip purists have called them some of the best cookies ever
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can scoop the dough onto a tray and freeze until solid Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to two months Bake from frozen adding two or three extra minutes to the baking time
Save Rich, tender, and bursting with chocolate, these ricotta cookies are a delightful twist on a classic that will disappear in minutes.
Recipe FAQ
- → How does ricotta affect the cookies' texture?
Ricotta adds exceptional moisture and tenderness, resulting in a soft, cake-like cookie crumb.
- → Can I substitute chocolate chips with other add-ins?
Yes, dark chocolate, white chocolate, or chopped nuts offer delicious alternatives.
- → What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature; they stay fresh for up to three days.
- → Can I add extra flavor to the dough?
Adding orange zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon gives the cookies a lovely flavor twist.
- → Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they are vegetarian-friendly, containing no meat or gelatin-based ingredients.