Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the best of both worlds, Cannoli Cookies are a delightful choice! These cookies bring the classic flavors of cannoli into an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to indulge after a long day, these little bites of joy will surely brighten your mood.

What makes Cannoli Cookies so special is the creamy ricotta filling nestled inside a buttery shell. They’re not just delicious; they also look beautiful on a plate, making them an impressive addition to any dessert table. Plus, they are simple enough to whip up on busy weeknights when you’re craving something sweet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, these cookies can be prepared even on your busiest days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of creamy filling and crispy shell—great for sharing!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance, and bake them fresh whenever you need a quick dessert.
• Customizable Flavors: The recipe allows for fun variations, so you can make it your own!
• Deliciously Indulgent: Each bite provides a burst of flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these Cannoli Cookies, we use simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely have in your pantry. This makes whipping up a batch both easy and enjoyable!

For the Cookie Dough

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

For the Filling

• ½ cup (120 g) of ricotta cheese
• ½ cup (75 g) of mini chocolate chips
• ½ cup (75 g) of chopped pistachios

For Dusting

• Powdered sugar

Variations

The beauty of Cannoli Cookies is their flexibility! You can easily customize them to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add Different Nuts: Swap out pistachios for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Change Up the Chips: Try mixing in white chocolate chips or dried fruit for a unique twist.
• Infuse with Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the cookie flavor.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make them suitable for gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar until they are well blended. This step is crucial as it creates an even distribution of sweetness throughout the dough.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. This creamy mixture adds richness and flavor to each cookie.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. It’s important not to overmix; gentle folding helps keep your cookies tender.

Step 5: Rest the Dough

Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes. Resting allows the flavors to meld together and makes rolling out easier.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. This thickness ensures that your cookies are sturdy enough to hold their filling while still being delicate.

Step 7: Cut Out Shapes

Cut the dough into rectangles or squares, approximately 2×3 inches. Feel free to get creative with shapes if you like!

Step 8: Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, chocolate chips, and pistachios. This filling is where all those wonderful flavors come together!

Step 9: Fill & Seal Cookies

Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each rectangle and fold them over to seal. Press down gently at the edges to ensure they stay closed during baking.

Step 10: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place your filled cookies on lined baking sheets and bake for about 15-18 minutes until they are golden brown. Watching them rise is one of the joys of baking!

Step 11: Cool Before Serving

Let them cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cooling helps set their shape and makes them easier to handle.

Enjoy sharing these delightful Cannoli Cookies with friends and family—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making Cannoli Cookies is a delightfully rewarding experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure each batch turns out perfectly!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ricotta and eggs can make a significant difference in flavor and texture. They contribute to a rich, creamy filling that elevates the cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest for 30 minutes not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps develop the flavors. Chilling can improve the overall texture of your cookies.

• Experiment with Fillings: While chocolate chips and pistachios are traditional favorites, feel free to get creative! Try adding dried fruits like cranberries or swapping in your favorite nuts for a unique twist.

• Watch Baking Time Closely: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies after about 12 minutes of baking. You want them golden brown without overcooking, as they will continue to firm up slightly once removed from the oven.

• Dust with Powdered Sugar Just Before Serving: For a beautiful presentation, dust your cookies with powdered sugar right before serving. This way, it looks fresh and inviting!

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Presenting your Cannoli Cookies beautifully can turn a simple treat into an impressive dessert! Here are some ideas to make your serving extra special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some additional chopped pistachios or almonds on top of the cookies to add crunch and elevate their appearance.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies enhances both flavor and aesthetics.
• Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and refreshing contrast against the sweetness of the cookies.

Side Dishes

• Italian Coffee: A robust Italian espresso complements the sweetness of Cannoli Cookies beautifully, providing an energizing pairing.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream paired with warm cookies creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the cookies.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream for a luscious, tropical touch that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of ricotta.

With these tips on serving and garnishing, your Cannoli Cookies will not only taste amazing but also look stunning! Enjoy creating this delightful treat for family and friends—they’ll surely be impressed!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat whenever you crave something delicious. With just a few easy steps, you can make these cookies ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

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 storage, refrigerate the cookies for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the cookies are fully cooled.
• Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft.

FAQs

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

Can I use a different filling for Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional, feel free to experiment with mascarpone or cream cheese mixed with sugar and flavorings that you enjoy.

How do I ensure my Cannoli Cookies stay crispy?

To keep your Cannoli Cookies crispy, be sure they cool completely before storing them. Also, avoid adding too much moisture to the filling.

Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just roll and bake when you’re ready to enjoy fresh Cannoli Cookies.

What is the best way to serve Cannoli Cookies?

Serve your Cannoli Cookies dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea!

Do I need to chill the dough before baking Cannoli Cookies?

Chilling is not required for this recipe. However, letting it rest helps improve texture, so don’t skip that step!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Cannoli Cookies as much as I do! They bring together lovely flavors and textures that are sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or sharing them at a gathering, they’re bound to be a hit. Happy baking!