Orange Ricotta Cookies

Something about the ricotta cheese makes these cookies deliciously tender and fluffy. A touch of orange zest sends the icing over the top!

Orange Ricotta Cookies

Ingredients

• 1/2 stick butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg white
• 4 oz ricotta cheese
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 tsp almond extract
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp orange juice
• 1 tsp orange zest

Preheat oven to 350F.

In a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar. Scrape down the bowl and add the egg white, ricotta cheese, and extracts. Blend until smooth. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Using a small 1in cookie scoop, spoon the mixture onto a greased cookie sheet. Leave about 2in of space between each of the cookies. Bake for 12 minutes until cookies are a pale golden brown just around the edges.

Cool completely. While cooling, combine the powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest. The mixture should be exceptionally thick, but still spreadable. If necessary, thin with just a splash of milk or water. Spoon a small amount of the icing on top of each cookie. If desired, top with sprinkles.

Chill for at least 1 hour and allow icing to harden before stacking in a storage container. 

Makes 1 dozen

Notes from the Chef

-No orange? Substitute a lemon!

-For a bit more festive fun, add red or green food coloring to the icing