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ORANGE CRANBERRY RICOTTA COOKIES

Sana Umer
These Orange Cranberry Ricotta Cookies are soft, cake-like treats bursting with citrusy flavour and tart cranberries. Ricotta makes them moist and tender—perfect for holidays, gifting, or cosy winter evenings with tea or coffee.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 24 people1
Calories 140 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • ¾ cup dried cranberries

Glaze (optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • ½ teaspoon orange zest

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Cream butter & sugar: In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add wet ingredients: Mix in ricotta, egg, vanilla, and orange zest.
  • Combine & fold: Add dry ingredients to wet; mix until just combined. Fold in cranberries.
  • Scoop & bake: Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheet. Bake 12–14 minutes, until edges are golden.
  • Glaze (optional): Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over cooled cookies.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Dough can be chilled for up to 2 days before baking.
  • Customizing the Flavor: Add chopped nuts or swap cranberries for dried cherries.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with tea, mulled wine, or as part of a holiday cookie platter.
  • Allergy-Friendly Options: Use plant-based ricotta and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
  • Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Keyword cranberry cookies, holiday cookies, Italian ricotta cookies, Italian ricotta dessert, orange cranberry, soft cookies