Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a hug in cookie form, then these Cannoli Cookies are just what you need. They combine the classic flavors of traditional cannoli into a delightful, easy-to-make cookie. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, they bring joy to any occasion. The creamy ricotta filling paired with a buttery shell is simply irresistible!

Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delectable recipe. Trust me; once you take that first bite of Cannoli Cookies, you’ll understand why this is one of my all-time favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike.
• Family-friendly appeal: The sweet flavors and fun textures make these cookies a hit with kids and adults!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies.
• Deliciously unique: These Cannoli Cookies offer a twist on the classic Italian dessert that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Cannoli Cookies is simple and fun! You probably have most of them in your pantry already. Let’s dive into these wholesome components that come together to create something truly special.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup (240 ml) of all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (100 g) of granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120 g) of ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 1 tsp of lemon zest

For the Filling

• ½ cup (75 g) of mini chocolate chips
• ½ cup (75 g) of chopped pistachios

For Serving

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Variations

This Cannoli Cookies recipe is versatile, allowing you to play around with flavors and fillings based on your preferences. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add some spice: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Change up the fillings: Swap out mini chocolate chips for dried fruit or even fresh berries!
• Go nutty: Use your favorite nuts instead of pistachios—walnuts or almonds work wonderfully too.
• Flavor the dough: Try adding almond extract instead of vanilla for a different twist.

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar until well blended. This step is important because it helps distribute the sugar evenly throughout the dough before mixing in the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. This mixture will create that delightful creamy filling inside those crispy shells!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. Be gentle here; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 5: Let It Rest

Cover your dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This rest period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once rested, dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Rolling it out evenly helps ensure consistent baking.

Step 7: Cut Into Shapes

Cut the rolled-out dough into rectangles or squares, roughly measuring 2×3 inches. These shapes will hold your creamy filling perfectly!

Step 8: Prepare Your Filling

In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese with mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios. This filling is what makes these Cannoli Cookies so delicious!

Step 9: Fill Each Cookie

Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each rectangle and carefully fold it over to seal. Press down at the edges gently to make sure they stay closed while baking.

Step 10: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until they are golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 11: Cool Down

Let them cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack. This step helps them firm up just right!

Now you have made delightful Cannoli Cookies! Enjoy every crumb!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making Cannoli Cookies is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfect every time!

• Use fresh ricotta – Fresh ricotta provides a creamier texture and richer flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your cookies.

• Don’t overwork the dough – Gently mixing the ingredients prevents the gluten from developing too much, keeping your cookies tender and flaky.

• Chill the dough – Allowing the dough to rest not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps prevent shrinkage during baking.

• Experiment with fillings – While chocolate chips and pistachios are classic choices, feel free to try other mix-ins like dried fruit or different nuts for a unique twist.

• Watch the baking time closely – Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; you want them golden brown but not overdone for that perfect crispiness.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

These Cannoli Cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they can also be a feast for the eyes! Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to each cookie.

• Chocolate drizzle – A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies can elevate their appearance and flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

• Coffee or espresso – The bold flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of Cannoli Cookies perfectly, making for a delightful pairing.

• Vanilla ice cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside warm Cannoli Cookies creates a deliciously indulgent dessert experience.

• Herbal tea – A soothing cup of herbal tea can balance out the sweetness and provide a relaxing end to any meal.

With these serving suggestions in mind, your Cannoli Cookies will not only taste amazing but will also impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy them!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are not only delightful to make, but they also lend themselves wonderfully to meal prep. You can whip up a batch in advance and store them for those moments when you crave something sweet!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Ensure cookies are fully cooled before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cookies, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Cannoli Cookies.

Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta in Cannoli Cookies?

While ricotta provides that signature creamy texture, you can substitute it with mascarpone or even cottage cheese blended until smooth if you’re looking for alternatives.

How do I ensure my Cannoli Cookies have the right texture?

For the best texture in your Cannoli Cookies, make sure not to overmix the dough after adding dry ingredients. This will help maintain that tender, buttery bite.

Can I add different fillings to my Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fillings like cream cheese or flavored whipped creams. Just remember to keep it creamy!

What makes these Cannoli Cookies special?

The unique combination of crunchy shell and rich filling sets these Cannoli Cookies apart. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors that brings joy to any occasion!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Cannoli Cookies inspires you as much as it does me! These delightful treats are perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself—either way, they’re sure to bring smiles. Enjoy making them, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your flavors! Happy baking!