There’s something irresistible about desserts that combine fresh fruit and creamy textures, and these Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies are a perfect example. They’re light, subtly sweet, and bursting with the flavors of ripe peaches, zesty orange, and creamy ricotta.

The first time I made these, I was inspired by a trip to an orchard where the peaches were so fragrant, they practically begged to be baked into something special. The addition of ricotta and a hint of orange zest transformed the cookies into little bites of sunshine.

What I love most about this recipe is how beautifully it balances sophistication and simplicity. They’re easy enough to whip up on a whim yet elegant enough to serve at a gathering.

Let’s bring the sweet, fragrant magic of peaches, ricotta, and orange zest into your kitchen with these Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies. One bite, and you’ll be transported to a summer day.

The Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies are soft, lightly sweet cookies made with fresh peaches, creamy ricotta, and a touch of orange zest.

These cookies are simple to make and have a tender, cake-like texture that pairs perfectly with the bright, citrusy aroma of orange. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a delightful twist on traditional fruit-based desserts.

An Exciting Story:

The first time I served these Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies was at a summer picnic with friends. The cookies were such a hit that even my husband, who usually prefers chocolate desserts, couldn’t stop raving about their softness and unique flavor. Now, they’re a must-make recipe every peach season.

Why These Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies?

• Bright and Fruity: Peaches and orange zest create a fresh, summery flavor.
• Soft and Tender: The ricotta gives these cookies a delicate, cake-like texture.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Elegant Yet Simple: Perfect for tea parties, picnics, or dessert tables.
• Customizable: Swap in other fruits or add spices for a personal touch.

What You Need for Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies

• For the Cookies:
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup diced fresh peaches (about 1 large peach)
• For the Glaze (Optional):
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • Orange zest, for garnish

How to Make Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies

1. Preheat and Prep:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, ricotta, orange zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Combine and Fold:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the diced peaches.
5. Scoop and Bake:
   • Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Cool:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Make the Glaze (Optional):
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies and garnish with additional orange zest.

Tips for Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies

1. Use Ripe Peaches: The sweeter and juicier the peaches, the better the flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cookies dense instead of tender.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Try Different Fruits: Substitute peaches with nectarines, apricots, or diced pears.
• Add Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth to the cookies.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free ricotta and vegan butter.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Use whole-wheat pastry flour for added fiber.
• Replace some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Closing for Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies:

And there you have it—Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies that are as delightful to eat as they are to make. These cookies bring together the best of summer flavors in a soft, tender treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to explore more of our fruity, easy-to-make recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Orange-Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator if glazed, as the moisture can soften the cookies.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze unglazed cookies in a single layer, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

What if I don’t have fresh peaches?
Use canned or frozen peaches (thawed and drained) in a pinch.

How do I prevent the dough from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking.

Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, they’re delicious on their own, but the glaze adds a citrusy touch.

Can I use low-fat ricotta?
Yes, but whole milk ricotta gives the richest texture.

What pairs well with these cookies?
Enjoy with a cup of tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Can I make mini cookies?
Yes, use a smaller scoop and reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes.

Can I add nuts?
Fold in chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch.

How do I keep the cookies soft?
Store them with a slice of bread in the container to retain moisture.

What’s a fun serving idea?
Arrange them on a platter with fresh peach slices and a bowl of whipped cream for dipping.

Easy Orange Infused Sweet Ricotta Peach Cookies

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: Cake, Dessert, Snacks

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Cookies:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)

• Zest of 1 orange

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup diced fresh peaches (about 1 large peach)

• For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice

• Orange zest, for garnish

Directions

• Preheat and Prep:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
• Mix the Dry Ingredients:
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Cream the Wet Ingredients:
• In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, ricotta, orange zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
• Combine and Fold:
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the diced peaches.
• Scoop and Bake:
• Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Cool:
• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Make the Glaze (Optional):
• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies and garnish with additional orange zest.