Cannoli cookies are a delightful twist on a classic Italian dessert. These soft, chewy, and creamy cookies pack all the flavors of traditional cannoli but are easier to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a family gathering, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to satisfy your taste buds and bring a touch of Italian charm to your kitchen.
Cannoli Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined.
- In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until well combined.
- Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls, and then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the rolled balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, spread a teaspoon of the ricotta filling on one flat side of a cookie and sandwich it with another cookie.
Notes
Why Make This Recipe
Why settle for ordinary cookies when you can indulge in the unique flavors of cannoli cookies? They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With their creamy ricotta filling and hint of cinnamon, these cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any casual gathering or festive celebration.
“These cannoli cookies are the perfect blend of soft cookie and creamy filling, making them my new favorite dessert!”
Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or serve them at a party, these cookies are bound to impress. The fun part? They are kid-approved, making them a great choice for family baking sessions. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time.
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
Making cannoli cookies is a straightforward process that combines the best components of a classic Italian cannoli into a cookie form. You’ll start by preparing the dough, then fill it with that luscious ricotta mixture, and finally create those irresistible cookie sandwiches that everyone will adore. The entire process should take about 30 minutes, giving you ample time to prepare for your hungry guests or to enjoy them all by yourself!
What You’ll Need
To create these delightful cannoli cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for rolling)
Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions such as using dairy-free butter or ricotta for a lactose-free version of these cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined.
- In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until well combined.
- Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls, and then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the rolled balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, spread a teaspoon of the ricotta filling on one flat side of a cookie and sandwich with another cookie.
Best Ways to Enjoy it
These cannoli cookies shine when served fresh out of the oven, still slightly warm. Consider pairing them with a cup of espresso or your favorite coffee for a delightful treat. You can also plate them with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch, perfect for serving at gatherings or special occasions. If you’re feeling creative, add a side of whipped cream or fruit preserves for an enticing contrast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your cannoli cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. You can also refrigerate them for a week if you prefer them chilled. If you find yourself with leftovers (although highly unlikely), you can freeze the unfilled cookies for up to three months. Just thaw and fill when you’re ready to indulge once again!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Ensure your butter is softened to create a light and fluffy texture for the cookie dough.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients, as this can lead to a tougher cookie.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruits or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- For a more gooey filling, consider adding a touch of cream cheese to the ricotta mixture.
Recipe Variations
There are countless ways to make cannoli cookies uniquely yours. Here are a few ideas to mix it up:
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the ricotta filling for a refreshing flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped pistachios or walnuts into the cookie dough for an added crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap out the mini chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks to intensify the chocolatey goodness.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to prepare cannoli cookies?
It takes roughly 30 minutes to prepare the dough and bake the cookies, making it a quick recipe for any dessert occasion.
2. Can I substitute ricotta cheese in this recipe?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using cottage cheese blended until smooth.
3. How should I store leftover cannoli cookies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, or refrigerate them for a week.
Feel free to get creative in your kitchen by making these scrumptious cannoli cookies. Don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes such as protein muffins or a delicious smash cake recipe.
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