Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings a little Italian flair to your kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! These Cannoli Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. Imagine crispy, cinnamon-sugar cookies filled with a creamy ricotta mixture – they’re simply irresistible! I love making these cookies for family gatherings, cozy get-togethers, or even just as a special dessert on a busy weeknight. They bring smiles all around!

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion. Plus, who doesn’t love a cookie that tastes like a cannoli? Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these Cannoli Cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up easily, even on busy days!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these cookies; they make for a fun and delicious dessert.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just because – they’re guaranteed to impress!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Cannoli Cookies is a breeze thanks to simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before we start baking:

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
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s move on to some fun variations!

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty variation ideas:

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds to the filling for added crunch and flavor.
• Zesty Lemon: Mix in some lemon zest into the ricotta filling for a refreshing citrus kick.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free ricotta made from nuts or tofu if you’re looking for an alternative.
• Different Chips: Swap mini chocolate chips with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures even baking and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout your cookie dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into your mixture, resulting in soft cookies. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until well combined. This creamy filling brings that delightful cannoli taste.

Step 6: Form Cookie Balls

Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls. Then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This adds sweetness and flavor right from the start.

Step 7: Bake

Place the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re lightly golden around the edges.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is key here; it helps them set up nicely.

Step 9: Assemble

Once cooled completely, spread about a teaspoon of that luscious ricotta filling on one flat side of a cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. Repeat this step until all cookies are filled.

And there you have it! Your own batch of delicious Cannoli Cookies ready to be enjoyed. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making Cannoli Cookies can be a delightful experience with these handy tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps them cream together more effectively, resulting in a smoother dough.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until the ingredients are combined ensures that your cookies stay tender and don’t become tough.

• Chill the dough before baking: If you have time, chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes can help them hold their shape while baking and enhance their flavor.

• Experiment with fillings: While ricotta is traditional, feel free to swap it out for mascarpone or a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking to tailor the filling to your taste or dietary preferences.

• Store properly: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for a few days and are perfect for snacking!

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Presenting your Cannoli Cookies beautifully can make all the difference when sharing them with family and friends. Here are some creative ideas to serve these delightful treats.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, making your cookies look extra inviting.
• Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate on top enhances the flavor profile and adds an appealing visual contrast.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the richness of the cookies while adding a burst of color to your dessert spread.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture and vanilla flavor create a delicious contrast with the crispy cookies, perfect for a comforting dessert experience.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, pairs wonderfully with Cannoli Cookies, providing a soothing end to any meal.
• Espresso or coffee: For those who enjoy a caffeine boost, serving these cookies alongside espresso or coffee makes for an authentic Italian-inspired treat.

Enjoy whipping up these tasty Cannoli Cookies and impressing everyone with not just their flavor but also their beautiful presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat throughout the week! You can easily make them in advance and store them for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For optimal freshness, keep the ricotta filling separate until you’re ready to serve.
• If storing filled cookies, consume within 2-3 days for the best texture.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To freeze filled cookies, wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
• When ready to bake or eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For unfilled cookies, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving filled cookies as this may alter the texture of the ricotta filling. Instead, let them come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making Cannoli Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and freeze it or store baked cookies in an airtight container. Just add the ricotta filling when you’re ready to enjoy!

What is the best way to store Cannoli Cookies?

Store your Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. For freshness, keep the filling separate until serving.

Can I substitute ricotta cheese in Cannoli Cookies?

Yes! You can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer. Just ensure it has a similar consistency for best results.

How long do Cannoli Cookies last?

When stored properly, these delicious cookies will last up to 5 days at room temperature or several weeks if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cannoli Cookies! Their unique twist on a classic dessert is sure to bring smiles all around. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo with a cup of tea, they are bound to become a favorite treat. Happy baking!