Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines a delightful crunch with creamy goodness, then these Cannoli Cookies are just what you need! They bring all the rich flavors of traditional cannoli into a cookie form, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a special treat for family gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress.

What makes this recipe extra special is how simple it is to whip up. You’ll find yourself reaching for these Cannoli Cookies time and again, as they’re not only delicious but also a fun way to enjoy the classic flavors in a new and exciting way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delightful cookies fresh out of the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the creamy ricotta filling and crunchy shell—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them whenever you’re ready to indulge.
• Deliciously Versatile: The flavor combinations are endless, allowing you to customize them to fit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Cannoli Cookies is all about using wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll likely have most of these items in your pantry already!

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 Dusting

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Variations

One of the best things about Cannoli Cookies is their flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add some spice: Consider mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Try different nuts: Swap out pistachios for almonds or walnuts to change up the taste and texture.
• Use flavored ricotta: Look for lemon or orange-flavored ricotta cheese for an extra burst of citrusy goodness.
• Go chocolate crazy: Mix in some cocoa powder into the dough for double chocolate Cannoli Cookies!

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that lovely golden-brown color.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour and sugar until well blended. This helps to prevent clumps and ensures that every bite is perfectly sweet!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix ricotta, egg, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Combining these ingredients creates that luscious filling that you’ll love in every bite.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. This step binds everything together—don’t rush it; make sure it’s mixed well.

Step 5: Rest the Dough

Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes. Resting allows the gluten in the flour to relax, which results in tender cookies.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and makes cleanup super easy later on!

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Dust your work surface with flour and roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick. This thickness is perfect for achieving that ideal balance between crispy edges and soft filling.

Step 8: Cut Out Shapes

Cut the dough into rectangles or squares, approximately 2×3 inches. These shapes will be perfect little pockets for your delicious filling!

Step 9: Prepare Filling Mixture

In a small bowl, mix ricotta with chocolate chips and pistachios. This creamy mixture will be nestled inside each cookie, making each bite irresistible.

Step 10: Fill Cookies

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

Step 11: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want that perfect golden hue.

Step 12: Cool Down

Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Letting them cool slightly helps them firm up before serving.

And there you have it! A batch of delightful Cannoli Cookies ready to be enjoyed by family and friends. Enjoy every crispy, creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Creating the perfect Cannoli Cookies is easier than you think! With a few handy tips, you can achieve delightful results every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing your ricotta and egg to room temperature helps them blend more smoothly into the dough, ensuring an even texture in your cookies.

• Don’t skip the resting time – Allowing the dough to rest for 30 minutes makes it easier to roll out and helps develop flavor, resulting in a richer taste.

• Be gentle when sealing – When folding the cookies, ensure they are sealed well but handle them gently to avoid tearing. This keeps the filling secure during baking.

• Experiment with fillings – Feel free to get creative! You can add different mix-ins like dried fruits or swap out chocolate chips for butterscotch or caramel bits for unique flavor profiles.

• Watch the baking time closely – Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies after 15 minutes. They should be golden brown but not too dark to maintain that lovely buttery flavor.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Serving Cannoli Cookies can be a fun and creative process! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying them at home, presentation is key to enhancing their appeal.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and visually enhances your cookies while balancing their sweetness.

• Chopped nuts on top – Sprinkle some chopped pistachios or almonds on top before serving for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of Cannoli Cookies, making for a balanced dessert experience.

• Vanilla ice cream – The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with these cookies. Serve them warm with a scoop on the side for an indulgent treat.

• Coffee or tea – A cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea complements the sweetness of the cookies and makes for a delightful after-dinner pairing.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Cannoli Cookies will not only taste amazing but also look irresistible on any table! Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious treat with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are not just a delightful treat; they are also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a sweet addition to your dessert rotation.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label and date the containers!

Reheating

• To enjoy them warm, place the cookies on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Cannoli Cookies that might help clarify any uncertainties.

Can I use different fillings for Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional, you can experiment with other fillings like mascarpone or even fruit preserves for a unique twist.

How do I make Cannoli Cookies healthier?

You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour and reduce the sugar slightly. Additionally, substituting mini chocolate chips with dark chocolate can increase the health benefits!

What are Cannoli Cookies?

Cannoli Cookies are delightful treats that combine the classic flavors of cannoli—sweet ricotta filling—with a crispy outer shell. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!

Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies.

How do I prevent my Cannoli Cookies from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, ensure that your filling isn’t too wet and let the cookies cool completely before storing them. This helps maintain their crispness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Cannoli Cookies! They bring together the best of both worlds: crispy texture combined with creamy filling makes every bite special. Whether you’re enjoying them solo or sharing with loved ones, they’re sure to impress. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and sweetness!