Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines crispy and creamy in every bite, you’ve come to the right place! Cannoli Cookies are one of my all-time favorites. They bring the classic flavors of cannoli into an easy-to-make cookie form. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even as a sweet surprise for your loved ones, these cookies will surely steal the show. Plus, they are simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight!

What makes these Cannoli Cookies special is not just their delicious taste but also how they can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to enjoy a little dessert after dinner, this recipe is here to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the sweet ricotta filling and crunchy shell—perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you need them!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ricotta, chocolate chips, and pistachios creates a taste that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to make these Cannoli Cookies! Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

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 for dusting

Variations

One of the best parts about Cannoli Cookies is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Change the Nuts: Swap out pistachios for walnuts or almonds for a different texture and flavor.
• Add Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist that complements the sweetness.
• Try Different Fillings: Use mascarpone cheese or cream cheese instead of ricotta for an alternate creamy filling.
• Mix Up the Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar until well blended. This helps incorporate air into the mixture, which gives your cookies that lovely light texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. This step is key because it creates that rich filling that will make your Cannoli Cookies so special.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually stir the dry mixture into your wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. Be gentle here; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Cover your dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheets

While your dough rests, line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Rolling it out evenly helps ensure all cookies bake at the same rate.

Step 8: Cut Shapes

Cut the dough into rectangles or squares, roughly 2×3 inches. These shapes will hold your filling nicely once you fold them.

Step 9: Make Filling Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, and chopped pistachios until well combined. This combination adds delightful texture and flavor!

Step 10: Fill Cookies

Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each rectangle and fold over to seal. Press down gently on the edges so they don’t pop open while baking.

Step 11: Bake Until Golden

Bake your Cannoli Cookies for about 15-18 minutes until they turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them—oven temperatures can vary!

Step 12: Cool & Enjoy!

Once baked, cool them on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for that perfect finishing touch!

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delicious Cannoli Cookies! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

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

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your ricotta and egg to room temperature helps them blend more smoothly into the dough, resulting in a creamier filling.

• Don’t overwork the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents the cookies from becoming tough. A gently handled dough leads to a tender, flaky texture that melts in your mouth.

• Chill the filling: For an even richer flavor, let your ricotta mixture chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before filling the cookies. This will enhance the flavors and make it easier to handle.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different extracts or zest—like almond or orange—to personalize your Cannoli Cookies. This creativity can elevate your treat and impress your guests!

• Store properly: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, refrigerate for freshness.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Cannoli Cookies are not only delicious but also appealing when presented beautifully. Here are some creative ideas on how to serve them.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some dairy-free chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for an eye-catching finish that’s sure to please any chocolate lover.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a bright contrast to the richness of Cannoli Cookies, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.
• Vanilla coconut ice cream: The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of this dairy-free ice cream complement the cookies perfectly, offering a delightful contrast.
• Herbal tea: Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of herbal tea provides a comforting end to any meal. The soothing nature of tea balances the sweetness of the treats.
• Coffee or espresso: The robust flavors of coffee enhance the cookie’s richness, making it an ideal pairing for those who enjoy a classic combination.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create delightful moments with your Cannoli Cookies. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the cookies are fully cooled.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, allow frozen cookies to thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for that delightful crispy texture!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cannoli Cookies.

Can I use something other than ricotta cheese for Cannoli Cookies?

Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using mascarpone cheese or cream cheese as they provide a similar creamy texture and flavor.

How do I ensure my Cannoli Cookies stay crispy?

To keep your Cannoli Cookies crisp, avoid overfilling them with the ricotta mixture. Also, make sure to bake them until they are golden brown, which helps achieve that perfect crunch.

Can I customize the filling in my Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruits or nuts. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor!

How long do Cannoli Cookies last?

Cannoli Cookies will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, they freeze well for about 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cannoli Cookies! They’re not just a treat; they’re a little piece of love wrapped in a crispy shell. Whether you share them with family or savor them alone, may each bite bring you happiness. Enjoy the process and happy baking—can’t wait for you to try this recipe!