As I slid the tray of Cannoli Cookies out of the oven, the warm, sweet scent instantly engulfed my kitchen, transporting me to the heart of Italy. These delightful treats are a playful twist on the classic Italian dessert, merging the crisp charm of cookies with a creamy ricotta filling that’s simply irresistible. What makes these Cannoli Cookies truly special is their versatility—perfect for gatherings with friends or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, and they even allow for a gluten-free twist using almond flour! With quick prep time and a fun assembly, they’re a gratifying addition to any baking repertoire. Are you ready to indulge in a taste of tradition that doesn’t compromise on comfort? Let’s get baking! What makes Cannoli Cookies so special? Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy ricotta and sweet vanilla delivers a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these delightful cookies ready in no time—perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike! Versatile Options: Enjoy them as-is or switch it up using almond flour for a gluten-free treat, or try adding orange zest for a refreshing twist. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for family gatherings or as a sweet surprise for friends, these Cannoli Cookies are sure to be a hit! Incredible Texture: Enjoy the delightful crunch of the cookie juxtaposed with the smooth, rich filling that mimics traditional cannoli. Pair your Cannoli Cookies with a cup of strong espresso or even serve them alongside some Banana Oatmeal Cookies for a charming dessert table! Cannoli Cookies Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create these delightful Cannoli Cookies! For the Cookie Dough All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture to the cookies. Note: Ensure to measure accurately for best results. Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cookies rise. Note: Necessary for a light, airy texture. Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness. Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and helps achieve a tender cookie. Note: Ensure it is softened for easy creaming. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and assists with browning. Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together and helps with moisture. Note: Use at room temperature for better incorporation. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor and sweetness. For the Creamy Filling Ricotta Cheese – Provides a creamy, rich filling. Substitution: Can be replaced with mascarpone for a richer flavor. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the ricotta filling and provides a smoother texture. Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to the flavors. Note: Can enhance flavor complexity. Mini Chocolate Chips – Introduces a touch of chocolate sweetness and texture. For Coating and Extra Flavor Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – Provides a sweet coating for the cookie exterior. Cinnamon (for rolling) – Additional flavoring for the exterior. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cannoli Cookies Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures that your Cannoli Cookies bake evenly and do not stick. The aroma of the cookies will soon fill your kitchen as they bake, so be prepared for delightful anticipation! Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This step is crucial for ensuring an airy texture in your Cannoli Cookies. Set this mixture aside for now, as it will seamlessly combine with the wet ingredients in the next step. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. The mixture should be pale and airy, which will contribute to the tender texture of your cookies. Step 4: Combine Egg and Vanilla Add one large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until well combined; the egg will help bind your ingredients together while the vanilla adds a rich depth of flavor to the Cannoli Cookies. You’ll notice a lovely, sweet fragrance wafting through your kitchen. Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be slightly sticky yet manageable. If you see pockets of flour, that’s okay—just stop mixing! This gentle handling keeps your cookies soft and tender. Step 6: Prepare the Filling In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips. Mix until smooth and well-blended, creating a creamy filling that perfectly complements your Cannoli Cookies. Make sure the ricotta is drained well for the best consistency. Step 7: Shape the Cookies Scoop out tablespoons of the cookie dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor. Lightly flatten each ball before placing them on the prepared baking sheets, giving them enough space to spread while baking. Step 8: Bake the Cookies Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; the cookies should have a crisp exterior while remaining soft inside. The delightful aroma will let you know they are almost ready! Step 9: Cool the Cookies Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the Cannoli Cookies cool for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack using a spatula to cool completely. This cooling step is essential for enhancing their texture and allowing the flavors to meld together. Step 10: Assemble the Cookies Once the cookies are completely cool, take one cookie, spread a generous amount of the ricotta filling on top, and sandwich it with another cookie. Repeat this process until all the cookies are filled. Enjoy the delightful contrast of creamy filling and crispy cookie that defines these Cannoli Cookies! What to Serve with Cannoli Cookies Indulging in Cannoli Cookies opens up a world of delightful pairings that transform your treat into a memorable meal experience. Rich Espresso: A classic pairing, the bold flavors of espresso balance the sweetness of Cannoli Cookies, making every bite even more enjoyable. Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits like berries and citrus brightens the palate, offering a lighter contrast to the creamy filling. Gelato: Serve a scoop of creamy gelato, perhaps vanilla or pistachio, alongside the cookies for an Italian-inspired dessert that feels indulgently luxurious. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Add a playful twist by serving a small bowl of warm chocolate sauce for dipping; the melted chocolate perfectly complements the cookies’ textures. Italian Wine: Pair with a sweet dessert wine like Vin Santo or Moscato to enhance the Italian roots, enhancing the flavors of the cookies and creating a lovely after-dinner treat. Spiced Tea: A cup of chai or cinnamon tea brings warmth and spiciness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cookies, crafting a cozy afternoon experience. Cheese Platter: Create a fun dessert platter with various cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta, allowing the creamy flavors to harmonize with your Cannoli Cookies. Mini Cannoli: Offering a mini version of the traditional dessert alongside the cookies is a fun way to amplify the Italian theme and savor the familiar flavors. Pistachio Crumble: Sprinkle some crushed pistachios over the cookies before serving to add a delightful crunch and vibrant color, elevating the presentation as well. Lemon Sorbet: Refresh the palate with a scoop of lemon sorbet; its tartness cuts through the richness of the cookies, creating a delightful balance in flavors. Cannoli Cookies Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and personalize your Cannoli Cookies to suit your taste buds or dietary needs! Mascarpone Twist: Substitute ricotta cheese with mascarpone for an even richer and creamier filling that elevates the flavor profile. Gluten-Free Delight: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour to create a gluten-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. Citrus Kick: Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the ricotta mixture for a refreshing twist that brightens up the filling beautifully. Nutty Flavor: Mix in 1/4 cup of finely chopped pistachios into the filling for an added crunch and a nutty depth of flavor. Dairy-Free Option: Swap out the butter for vegan butter and choose a dairy-free ricotta for a delicious vegan-friendly alternative. Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate 1/2 cup of cocoa powder into the cookie dough for a chocolate-flavored twist that pairs wonderfully with the ricotta filling. Spiced Surprise: Experiment with different spices by adding a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the cookie dough for a warm, aromatic kick. Berry Bliss: Mix in a handful of freeze-dried strawberries to the filling for a fruity burst that brings a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese. For additional delicious ideas, consider pairing your Cannoli Cookies with a serving of Banana Oatmeal Cookies or treat yourself to some Cookies Cream Ice for a fabulous dessert spread! How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Cookies Room Temperature: Store Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor. Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them, but be aware that this may slightly alter the cookie’s crispness. Consume within 5 days for best quality. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month without losing their delicious taste. Reheating: To enjoy warm Cannoli Cookies, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes after thawing to revive their crispness and flavor before serving. Make Ahead Options These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Simply roll the dough into balls, coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. For the creamy filling, you can mix the ricotta, powdered sugar, and cinnamon ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the cookies by spreading the filling between two cookies, ensuring they’re just as delightful as when freshly made! Expert Tips for Cannoli Cookies Well-Drained Ricotta: Avoid a soggy filling by ensuring your ricotta cheese is well-drained before mixing. This keeps your Cannoli Cookies delightfully creamy yet firm. Careful Dough Mixing: Do not overmix the dough; stopping at just combined is key to soft, tender cookies. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when edges are lightly golden to prevent over-browning. Cooling is Key: Allow the cookies to cool completely before assembling. This helps maintain their crisp exterior and enhances the flavor of your Cannoli Cookies. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a splash of almond or orange extract to the filling for a unique twist. Or try varying the spices for an extra kick! Cannoli Cookies Recipe FAQs What type of ricotta cheese should I use for Cannoli Cookies? I recommend using whole-milk ricotta for a creamier and richer filling. Make sure to drain it well before mixing to avoid a runny consistency. You can also substitute with mascarpone cheese for an even more indulgent flavor! How should I store leftover Cannoli Cookies? Store your Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, feel free to refrigerate them, but keep in mind that this may slightly change their texture. Consume refrigerated cookies within 5 days for optimal freshness. Can I freeze Cannoli Cookies, and if so, how? Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each filled cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month! When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the cookies to thaw and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their delightful crispness. What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky? If your dough feels too sticky, it’s a sign that you may need to chill it for a short while. Refrigerating the dough for 20–30 minutes can make it easier to handle. Additionally, ensure you’re measuring your flour accurately; over-measuring can lead to excess moisture in the dough. Are there dietary alternatives for Cannoli Cookies? Yes! For a gluten-free version, simply substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour. This adjustment not only keeps the cookies gluten-free but also adds a nice nutty flavor. Just be cautious with portion sizes, as almond flour can change the texture slightly. Can I use different fillings for Cannoli Cookies? The more the merrier! While the traditional filling is delicious, you can experiment with variations. Consider adding orange zest for a refreshing twist, or even switch the chocolate chips for dried fruit like candied orange peel or cherries for a unique taste profile. Cannoli Cookies: A Sweet Taste of Tradition and Joy Indulge in Cannoli Cookies, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring a creamy filling and a crunchy exterior. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 47 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough2 cups all-purpose flour Ensure to measure accurately for best results.1 teaspoon baking powder Necessary for a light, airy texture.1 pinch salt1/2 cup unsalted butter Ensure it is softened for easy creaming.3/4 cup granulated sugar1 large egg Use at room temperature for better incorporation.1 teaspoon vanilla extractFor the Creamy Filling1 cup ricotta cheese Can be replaced with mascarpone for a richer flavor.1/2 cup powdered sugar1 teaspoon cinnamon Can enhance flavor complexity.1/4 cup mini chocolate chipsFor Coating and Extra Flavor1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)1 teaspoon cinnamon (for rolling) Equipment OvenMixing bowlsElectric mixerspatulaBaking SheetsParchment paper Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cannoli CookiesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.Add one large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until well combined.Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips. Mix until smooth.Scoop out tablespoons of the cookie dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the Cannoli Cookies cool for about 5 minutes.Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of the ricotta filling on top of one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg NotesEnsure your ricotta cheese is well-drained for firm filling. Do not overmix the dough to maintain softness. Experiment with flavors as desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
