Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1/2 cup ricotta cheese

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon fresh orange zest

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups all purpose flour

10 ounces mini chocolate chips (divided)

1 cup chopped pistachios

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, then the ricotta cheese, mixing until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and fresh orange zest.

Step 2: Add the baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the mixture and blend well. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour. Fold in 1 cup of the mini chocolate chips and the chopped pistachios. Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least one hour.

Step 3: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or lightly greasing them.

Step 4: Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, drop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 5: Bake the cookies at 375 degrees F for 8 to 11 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Let them cool slightly on the tray, then move to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Microwave the remaining chocolate chips in a small microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth. Transfer the melted chocolate into a small resealable bag, snip a small corner, and drizzle the chocolate over the cooled cookies. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free option, try substituting the ricotta with a plant-based cream cheese alternative.

Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the warm spice profile.

Swap pistachios for chopped almonds or walnuts if preferred.

Chilling the dough longer than one hour helps prevent spreading and improves texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, regular cream cheese can be used as a substitute; however, ricotta provides a lighter texture and mild flavor that’s key to the authentic taste of these cookies.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before baking and use parchment paper or a greased baking sheet. Also, avoid flattening the dough when placing it on the baking sheet.