The Ultimate Cannoli Cookies

Why Make This Recipe

Cannoli are a classic Italian dessert, but not everyone has the time or skills to make the traditional pastry. That’s where Cannoli Cookies come in! These cookies pack all the creamy, sweet flavors of cannoli into a soft and chewy treat. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends during celebrations or just for a sweet snack. Plus, they’re a fun twist on a beloved dessert!

How to Make The Ultimate Cannoli Cookies

Making these delicious cookies is straightforward. You’ll mix the ingredients together, scoop them out, and bake. In no time, you will have a batch of delightful Cannoli Cookies ready to enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (For gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (Softened.)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (Can substitute with dairy-free ricotta or silken tofu for a vegan option.)
• 1 piece egg (For vegan, replace with a flax egg.)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (Ensure it’s gluten-free if necessary.)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (Regular chocolate chips can be substituted.)
• Powdered sugar for dusting, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the ricotta cheese and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg (or flax egg) and vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
6. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let them cool before dusting with powdered sugar.

How to Serve The Ultimate Cannoli Cookies

Serve these cookies warm or at room temperature. They can be paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For extra flair, you can add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top or serve with a side of cream for dipping.

How to Store The Ultimate Cannoli Cookies

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. You can also freeze the cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to three months.

Tips to Make The Ultimate Cannoli Cookies

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• For a richer flavor, let the dough chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.
• You can add chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

Variation

For a different taste, try adding orange or lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy kick. You can also use white chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the egg with a flax egg, and use dairy-free ricotta or silken tofu.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are ready when the edges are lightly golden. They may seem soft in the middle but will firm up as they cool.

3. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Absolutely! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze the balls. Once they are hard, transfer them to a freezer bag and bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

The Ultimate Cannoli Cookies

These delightful cookies capture all the classic flavors of a traditional cannoli in a convenient, bite-sized form. Featuring a tender cookie base, a creamy ricotta filling, and a hint of citrus and chocolate, they're perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 42 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cookie Dough

• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 tsp Baking powder
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter softened
• 1 Large egg
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup Ricotta cheese

Cannoli Filling

• 1 cup Whole milk ricotta cheese well-drained
• 1/2 cup Powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp Orange zest
• 1/4 cup Mini chocolate chips

Garnish (Optional)

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Chopped pistachios
• Mini chocolate chips

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack
• Piping bag with star tip

Method

 

Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and ricotta cheese until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined, then chill the dough for 30 minutes.

Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared sheets.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Cannoli Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine well-drained ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy, then fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Assemble and Garnish

1. Once cookies are completely cooled, pipe or spoon a dollop of cannoli filling onto the flat side of half of the cookies. Top with the remaining cookies to create sandwich cookies.
2. Dust with extra powdered sugar and garnish with chopped pistachios or additional mini chocolate chips, if desired, before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure your ricotta cheese is well-drained to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. Chilling the cookie dough also helps maintain its shape during baking.