Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add the egg, orange zest, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the ricotta mixture, stirring until just combined.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serve warm or store in an airtight container once completely cooled.