Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings a little bit of Italy to your kitchen, these Cannoli Cookies are just what you need! They combine the classic flavors of cannoli into a fun and easy cookie form. With creamy ricotta filling nestled between two crispy, cinnamon-sugar cookies, they’re perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to family gatherings or even just a cozy afternoon snack.

What makes this recipe extra special is how simple it is to whip up. You won’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just some wholesome staples that you probably already have at home. So grab your apron and let’s make some delicious memories with these Cannoli Cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have these cookies baking in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cookies! These Cannoli Cookies are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake them ahead of time and store them for those unexpected guests or sweet cravings.
• Delicious flavor: The blend of sweet ricotta and warm cinnamon makes each bite simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully to create those delightful flavors we all love.

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative with flavors and textures. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Mix in chopped pistachios or almonds for an extra crunch.
• Try different fillings: Swap out the ricotta for mascarpone or even cream cheese for a different taste.
• Switch up the spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom in the dough or filling for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works for baking.

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking, making cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure they are evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This aeration is key—it helps create those tender cookies we all love! Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies soft and tender!

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until everything is well blended. This is where the magic happens—the rich filling will complement our cookies perfectly.

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This gives them that lovely sweet crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Step 7: Bake Them Up!

Place your balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden brown.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling them completely is crucial because it helps set their shape before we add our delicious filling.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cannoli Cookies

Once cooled, spread about a teaspoon of that luscious ricotta filling on one cookie’s flat side, then sandwich it with another cookie. And there you have it—your scrumptious Cannoli Cookies!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful treats! They’re sure to become a new favorite in your household just like they are in mine.

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making these delightful Cannoli Cookies is a breeze, and with a few expert tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfect every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and egg to room temperature helps them blend more easily, which results in a smoother batter and fluffier cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until the ingredients are combined keeps the cookies tender and prevents them from becoming tough.

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to get creative with the ricotta filling! You can add zest from an orange or lemon for a refreshing twist, or swap in different mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit.

• Chill the dough if necessary: If your cookie dough feels too soft to roll into balls, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and will help your cookies maintain their shape while baking.

• Store properly for freshness: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them fresh and tasty for several days!

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

These Cannoli Cookies not only taste amazing but also can be presented beautifully for any occasion. Here’s how to make them shine on your table!

Garnishes

• Dust with powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Add a drizzle of chocolate: Melting some dairy-free chocolate chips and drizzling them over the cookies creates a deliciously rich contrast that looks stunning.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits not only adds a refreshing contrast but also balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Vanilla Almond Milk: This creamy beverage pairs perfectly with Cannoli Cookies, offering a delightful dip that complements their flavors.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, brings a soothing element to your dessert experience—perfect for winding down after dinner.
• Italian Sorbetto: For a cooling effect, serve your cookies alongside some sorbetto. The fruity flavors can enhance the overall dessert experience wonderfully!

Now you’re all set to create and enjoy these scrumptious Cannoli Cookies! Whether it’s for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, they’re sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for meal prep! They not only taste fantastic but also store well, making them an excellent treat to have on hand for snacking or entertaining.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place the cookies in the refrigerator, where they will last up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the filled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or an airtight container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cookies, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds.
• For a crispy texture, you can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Cannoli Cookies.

Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it. Just roll and bake them fresh when you’re ready.

How should I store my Cannoli Cookies?

Store your Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I use other fillings instead of ricotta?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like mascarpone or even fruit preserves if you want to switch things up.

Are Cannoli Cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

How long do Cannoli Cookies last?

When stored properly, these delicious treats can last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cannoli Cookies! They bring together the best of classic Italian flavors with a fun twist that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or saving some for later, I’m sure they’ll be a hit. Happy baking!