Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the best of both worlds, these Cannoli Cookies are just what you need! They bring together the crispy outer shell and the rich, creamy filling of traditional cannoli, but in a fun and bite-sized cookie form. This recipe has stolen my heart because it’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet fancy enough to impress at family gatherings or holiday parties. Plus, who doesn’t love cookies?

These delightful Cannoli Cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a get-together or just need a sweet pick-me-up after a long day. You’ll love how easy they come together, making them an instant favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these Cannoli Cookies in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet treats—perfect for sharing.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for a quick dessert option during the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ricotta, chocolate chips, and pistachios makes every bite a flavor explosion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Cannoli Cookies. You’ll find that most of these items are staples in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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
• ½ cup (75 g) of mini chocolate chips
• ½ cup (75 g) of chopped pistachios
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Variations

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

• Add Different Nuts: Swap out pistachios for walnuts or almonds for a unique twist.
• Try Flavored Ricotta: Use lemon or orange-flavored ricotta to enhance the sweetness.
• Mix in Dried Fruit: Toss in some dried cherries or cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar until well blended. This step is crucial because it helps distribute the sugar evenly throughout the dough, giving every bite a touch of sweetness.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that your filling is creamy and delicious when you bite into those cookies.

Step 4: Create the Cookie Dough

Gradually stir the flour mixture into your wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. Don’t rush this step; ensuring everything is well combined will help create that beautiful texture we crave in cookies!

Step 5: Rest the Dough

Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes. Allowing it to rest helps develop flavors and makes rolling easier.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper while waiting for the dough to rest. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. A consistent thickness will help ensure even baking across all your cookies.

Step 8: Cut Into Shapes

Cut the rolled dough into rectangles or squares—about 2×3 inches works perfectly. These shapes will hold just enough filling without being too bulky.

Step 9: Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix together some ricotta, mini chocolate chips, and chopped pistachios. This filling adds richness and texture to each cookie!

Step 10: Fill and Seal

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

Step 11: Bake Your Cookies

Bake for about 15-18 minutes until golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 12: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Patience here is key; letting them cool properly ensures they maintain their shape.

Enjoy sharing these delightful Cannoli Cookies with friends and family—or keep them all for yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making Cannoli Cookies can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect batch every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your egg and ricotta to come to room temperature helps create a smoother batter, leading to better texture and flavor in your cookies.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the dough rest for 30 minutes allows the gluten to relax, which makes it easier to roll out and shape without springing back.

• Be gentle when sealing: When folding over the dough to encase the filling, press gently to seal. This prevents any filling from leaking out during baking.

• Experiment with fillings: While mini chocolate chips and pistachios are delicious, feel free to get creative! Try adding dried fruits or different nuts for a unique twist.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Look for a golden-brown color; they may need a minute or two more or less than the recommended time.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Cannoli Cookies not only taste divine but also look lovely when served! Here are some ideas to make them shine on your dessert table.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and enhances presentation with its delicate appearance.

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some extra chopped pistachios or almonds on top provides a nice crunch and an attractive finish.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of your favorite seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies—perfect for balancing flavors!

• Vanilla ice cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with Cannoli Cookies, creating a delightful dessert experience.

• Espresso: A small cup of espresso brings out the flavors of the cookies while offering a lovely coffee pairing that many will appreciate.

• Chocolate sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your Cannoli Cookies adds an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing friends and family with your delicious Cannoli Cookies! Enjoy every sweet moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them an ideal treat for busy weeks or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you notice the cookies getting too soft, store them in the fridge to prolong their crispiness.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the baked cookies to cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For a delightful warm treat, reheat cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving as it may make them too soft and lose their crunch.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cannoli Cookies:

Can I use a different filling for my Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! While this recipe features ricotta cheese, you can experiment with mascarpone or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Cannoli Cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Cannoli Cookies, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that your other ingredients are also gluten-free!

What are Cannoli Cookies?

Cannoli Cookies are inspired by traditional Italian cannoli but come in cookie form. They feature a crispy outer shell filled with creamy ricotta and sweet toppings like chocolate chips and pistachios.

Can I add more flavors to my Cannoli Cookies?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough and try adding flavor extracts such as almond or orange zest into the filling for unique variations.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ve enjoyed discovering this delightful recipe for Cannoli Cookies! These treats bring together rich flavors and textures that make every bite a joy. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or indulging in some well-deserved me-time, these cookies are sure to brighten your day. Enjoy making them, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists!