Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings joy to any occasion, you’ve landed in the right place with these Cannoli Cookies! Imagine crispy, buttery shells filled with a sweet and creamy ricotta filling. It’s like enjoying a classic cannoli but in cookie form—perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or even as a sweet surprise for your friends. This recipe is one of my favorites because it captures the essence of comfort food while being surprisingly simple to make!

Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just treating yourself after a long day, these Cannoli Cookies will surely bring smiles all around. Trust me, once you taste them, they’ll become a go-to in your baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! The combination of flavors and textures makes these treats appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time, so you have delicious cookies ready whenever the craving strikes!
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet ricotta filling paired with mini chocolate chips and pistachios creates an irresistible taste that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Cannoli Cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Gather these up to get started on your baking adventure!

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
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Different Nuts: Swap out pistachios for chopped almonds or walnuts for a new twist on flavor.
• Change the Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips or even dark chocolate chunks if you prefer.
• Fruit Twist: Add some finely chopped dried fruits like cherries or apricots into the filling for a fruity burst!
• Zesty Upgrade: Experiment with different citrus zests, like orange or lime, to brighten up the flavors.

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when you’re ready to bake your cookies, they’ll cook evenly and turn golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar until well blended. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the mixture, giving your cookies a light texture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. The ricotta adds creaminess and richness to your filling—no one can resist that!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir your flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Keep mixing until a soft dough forms; this dough will be what envelops your luscious filling.

Step 5: Rest Time

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for about 30 minutes. Resting allows the gluten in the dough to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheets

While waiting for the dough, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup—always a bonus!

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. A uniform thickness means even baking—no one likes an undercooked cookie!

Step 8: Cut Shapes

Cut out rectangles or squares from the dough, approximately 2×3 inches each. These will be filled later; don’t worry about them being perfect shapes!

Step 9: Make Filling

In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese with mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios. This filling is what takes these cookies over the top—sweet and crunchy all at once!

Step 10: Fill & Seal

Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each rectangle and fold them over to seal. Press gently around the edges; this keeps all that deliciousness inside while they bake.

Step 11: Bake Away

Transfer your cookies onto prepared baking sheets and bake them in your preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes until they turn golden brown. The aroma while they bake is heavenly!

Step 12: Cool Down

Once baked, cool on baking sheets for just a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Letting them cool helps maintain their crispiness while keeping that creamy center intact.

And there you have it! Freshly baked Cannoli Cookies that are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy every delightful morsel—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

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

• Use fresh ricotta – Fresh ricotta makes all the difference in flavor and texture. Opt for quality ricotta to achieve that creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
• Chill the dough – If you find your dough is too sticky, pop it in the fridge for about 15 minutes. Chilling will make it easier to handle and shape without sticking to your hands or the rolling pin.
• Seal the edges well – When folding over the dough to encase your filling, make sure to press the edges firmly to prevent any leakage during baking. A good seal ensures each cookie holds its delicious filling inside.
• Experiment with fillings – While this recipe features chocolate chips and pistachios, feel free to try other mix-ins like dried fruits or different nuts. Personalizing your fillings allows you to create variations that suit your taste!
• Keep an eye on baking time – Ovens can vary significantly, so start checking on your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time. You want them golden brown but not overdone!

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Serving Cannoli Cookies can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to present this delightful treat beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and enhances sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.
• Chopped nuts – Scatter some extra chopped pistachios on top for a crunchy texture contrast along with visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Espresso or coffee – A rich cup of espresso or freshly brewed coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweet flavors of Cannoli Cookies, enhancing their indulgence.
• Vanilla ice cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the flavors beautifully, adding a cooling contrast to these warm cookies.
• Fruit salad – A light fruit salad featuring berries or citrus can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the cookies while adding color and vibrancy to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress friends and family alike with your delicious Cannoli Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their crispiness.
• For best texture, consume within the first couple of days.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for about 5-10 minutes.
• This will refresh their crispy outer shell while keeping the filling soft and creamy.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making Cannoli Cookies, you’re in the right place!

Can I use different fillings for my Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional, feel free to experiment with mascarpone or even cream cheese. Just ensure they remain creamy and smooth for that lovely filling.

How do I keep my Cannoli Cookies crispy?

To maintain that delightful crunch, store them in a cool, dry place and avoid stacking them too tightly. You can also try adding a small desiccant packet inside your storage container.

How do I make Cannoli Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Ensure it includes xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it for proper texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe warms your heart as much as it delights your taste buds! These Cannoli Cookies are truly special—combining that classic Italian flavor with a fun twist. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging yourself, I know you’ll enjoy every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!