Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s sure to impress, you’ve come to the right place! These Cannoli Cookies are a fun twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the creamy goodness of ricotta filling with crispy, cinnamon-sugar cookies. They make for a perfect dessert after a busy weeknight dinner or a sweet addition to family gatherings and celebrations. Trust me; once you share these cookies with your loved ones, they will quickly become a favorite!

The best part? You can whip them up in no time! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these Cannoli Cookies is as enjoyable as eating them. So, let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new go-to!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: Even if you’re new to baking, these cookies are simple to make and require minimal fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet ricotta filling and crunchy cookie exterior.
• Make-ahead convenience: These cookies store well, making them perfect for meal prep or special occasions.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and chocolate chips creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile dessert: Serve them as a snack or dessert; they fit any occasion beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you probably have in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Cannoli Cookies:

For the Cookies

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For Rolling

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for rolling)

Variations

One of the great things about Cannoli Cookies is their flexibility! You can easily tailor them to suit your tastes. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add some zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the ricotta filling for a bright citrus twist.
• Change the chocolate: Swap mini chocolate chips for butterscotch or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Go nutty: Fold in chopped pistachios or walnuts into the ricotta mixture for added crunch.
• Dough alternatives: Experiment with gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option!

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and get that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients together first helps distribute the baking powder evenly throughout the flour, ensuring your cookies rise perfectly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step adds air into the mixture, which contributes to the cookie’s tender texture. Beat in one large egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Overdoing it can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

Step 5: Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until everything is well incorporated. This creamy filling is what makes these Cannoli Cookies so special!

Step 6: Shape Your Dough

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Once shaped, roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added sweetness before placing them on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Flatten and Bake

Place each ball on your parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them—they’re easy to overbake!

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack. This cooling time helps them firm up nicely.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cookies

Once cooled completely, spread about a teaspoon of the ricotta filling onto one cookie’s flat side. Sandwich it with another cookie gently pressing down so that they stick together beautifully.

And there you have it—your very own Cannoli Cookies! Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat with friends or family. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making Cannoli Cookies can be a delightful experience, and a few simple tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and egg to room temperature allows for better mixing, resulting in a smoother dough and fluffier cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing until just combined keeps the cookies tender and prevents them from becoming tough.

• Chill the filling: Allowing the ricotta filling to chill for a bit makes it easier to spread and helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to the ricotta filling for an extra layer of flavor. This personal touch can make your cookies uniquely yours.

• Store properly: Keep your filled cannoli cookies in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for several days. This also keeps the cookies from getting soggy!

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

These Cannoli Cookies not only taste amazing but also look delightful on any dessert table. Here are some great ideas to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the top adds elegance and an extra hint of sweetness.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving gives a classic touch that enhances both appearance and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the sweet richness of the cookies.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creaminess and coolness of vanilla ice cream create a delicious pairing that complements the cookie’s texture.
• Coffee or espresso: Serving these cookies alongside a cup of coffee or espresso elevates your dessert experience, enhancing flavors with every bite.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream offers a light and fluffy topping that pairs perfectly with the flavors of cannoli.

Enjoy crafting your Cannoli Cookies, and don’t forget to share them with friends—they’ll love this delightful twist on a classic treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for a delicious treat whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the cookies for a longer shelf life (up to a week).
• To maintain the texture, place parchment paper between layers of cookies in the container.

Freezing

• Freeze unfilled cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• For filled cookies, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag.
• To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen filled cookies, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• For unfilled cookies, simply let them come to room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Cannoli Cookies that might help you as you prepare this delightful recipe.

Can I make Cannoli Cookies without ricotta cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute ricotta cheese with mascarpone cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option.

How should I store my Cannoli Cookies?

After you’ve baked your Cannoli Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to keep them fresh. They’ll last about 3 days at room temperature and up to a week in the fridge.

Can I prepare Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely prepare Cannoli Cookies ahead of time. They can be made and stored either filled or unfilled—just follow the storage tips above!

What makes these Cannoli Cookies special?

These Cannoli Cookies offer the classic flavors of traditional cannoli but in a fun cookie form. The combination of crispy cookie and creamy filling makes every bite delightful!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Cannoli Cookies as much as I do! They’re not just a tasty treat but also a wonderful way to bring friends and family together. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to please. Enjoy every delicious bite!