GRANDMA’S RICOTTA & CHOCOLATE COOKIES

These cookies are a delicious take on the classic chocolate chip cookie, thanks to the addition of ricotta cheese.

Ricotta & Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the indulgent flavor of chocolate. These soft, cake-like cookies have a tender texture and just the right amount of sweetness, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll share a step-by-step recipe, tips for achieving the perfect texture, and creative variations to make these cookies uniquely yours.

Tips for Perfect Ricotta & Chocolate Cookies

1. Use whole milk ricotta: This ensures a moist, tender texture.
2. Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can make the cookies dense instead of soft and fluffy.
3. Chill the dough if needed: If the dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before scooping.
4. Check doneness carefully: The cookies should be set but not browned; they will firm up as they cool.

Ricotta & Chocolate Cookies Recipe

*Makes about 12 cookies

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 8 ounces ricotta cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 large egg
• 2 1/4 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

METHOD:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugars until they are nice and creamy.

Add ricotta cheese and continue to mix until all lumps are gone and it is nice and smooth.

Add vanilla and egg and mix.

Slowly add flour, a little at a time.

Add baking soda and salt and mix well, but not too much!

Turn off your mixer and add the chocolate chips, folding by hand with a rubber spatula.

Scoop cookie dough by the rounded tablespoon onto a cookie sheet; make sure they aren’t too close though!

Bake in your oven for 9-11 minutes, I do mine for 10.

Cool on a rack and once they are all the way cool put into a plastic bag or container and keep in the fridge!

Since they have cream cheese in them you don’t want them to spoil!

Variations of Ricotta & Chocolate Cookies

1. Double Chocolate: Replace 1/4 cup of flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate-infused dough.
2. Holiday Version: Add red and green sprinkles to the dough for a festive touch.
3. Fruit Twist: Stir in dried cherries or cranberries along with the chocolate chips for added sweetness.
4. Glazed Cookies: Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee or Tea: These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of espresso, cappuccino, or hot tea.
• As a Dessert: Serve them with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate gelato for a decadent treat.
• As a Gift: Package them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• At Parties: Arrange them on a dessert platter alongside other Italian sweets like biscotti or cannoli.

Conclusion

Ricotta & Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best of creamy ricotta and rich chocolate in a soft, flavorful cookie. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday indulgence, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Try this recipe today and savor the sweet simplicity of Italian-inspired baking!