Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings a little magic to your gatherings, then these Cannoli Cookies are the perfect choice! Imagine biting into a crispy shell filled with sweet ricotta goodness, complemented by mini chocolate chips and crunchy pistachios. This recipe has become a family favorite in my home, and I know it will be in yours too! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these cookies add a touch of joy to any occasion.

The best part? These Cannoli Cookies are simple to make and incredibly satisfying. You can whip them up in no time, and they’re sure to impress your loved ones with their rich flavors and delightful textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create these delicious treats without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good cookie, and these Cannoli Cookies are no exception!
• Make Ahead: Bake them in advance for parties or simply enjoy them throughout the week.
• Deliciously Unique: They combine familiar flavors in an exciting new way that is sure to wow your guests.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 8 servings, there’s plenty to go around—or keep them all for yourself!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Cannoli Cookies, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create that perfect balance of creamy and crispy.

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
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Variations

This recipe is flexible enough to let your creativity shine! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients based on what you have at home.

• Add Some Spice: Try mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Change Up the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pistachios, feel free to substitute with chopped almonds or walnuts.
• Fruit Infusion: Incorporate dried fruit like raisins or cranberries into the filling for added sweetness.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute ricotta cheese with a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for dairy-free options.

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven warming up to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is essential as it ensures even baking right from the start!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and granulated sugar until well blended. This step combines the dry elements so your cookies will have a smooth texture once baked.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. This creamy mixture adds richness and flavor to our cookies!

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until you form a soft dough. It’s important not to overmix; just combine until everything is nicely incorporated.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes. Allowing it to rest helps develop better flavor and makes it easier to roll out later on.

Step 6: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

While waiting, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy—always a win!

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Dust your work surface with flour. Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Rolling it too thin can lead to crispy edges that break easily—aim for that perfect balance!

Step 8: Cut Into Shapes

Cut the rolled-out dough into rectangles or squares about 2×3 inches in size. These shapes will beautifully cradle our delicious filling.

Step 9: Mix Filling Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, and chopped pistachios until evenly distributed. This filling is where all those wonderful flavors come together!

Step 10: Fill and Seal

Place a spoonful of filling into the center of each rectangle. Fold over carefully to seal—make sure they’re closed tight so none of that creamy goodness escapes during baking.

Step 11: Bake

Slide those trays into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes until golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 12: Cool Down

Let them cool on baking sheets for just a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling allows them to set properly while maintaining that delightful crunch.

Enjoy every bite of these Cannoli Cookies! They are truly something special—perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making Cannoli Cookies is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your ricotta and egg are at room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the dough, resulting in a more cohesive texture.

• Don’t skip the resting period: Allowing the dough to rest for 30 minutes gives it time to relax, making it easier to roll out and shape without cracking.

• Be generous with the filling: A spoonful of filling adds a burst of flavor to each cookie. Don’t be shy—just be sure not to overfill, or they may burst while baking!

• Check for doneness carefully: Baking times can vary based on your oven. Keep an eye on your cookies, looking for a golden brown color to ensure they’re perfectly baked.

• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving: This adds an elegant touch and keeps the cookies looking fresh. Dusting right before serving prevents the sugar from dissolving into moisture.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

These Cannoli Cookies can be presented beautifully for any occasion. Here are some fun ideas to make them stand out!

Garnishes

• Chopped pistachios: Sprinkle some finely chopped pistachios on top of the cookies after dusting with powdered sugar for added crunch and color.
• Chocolate drizzle: A quick drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate can provide a decadent finish that enhances both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies, balancing sweetness with natural acidity.
• Vanilla almond milk: A chilled glass of vanilla almond milk pairs wonderfully as a creamy complement, making it an ideal dip or drink alongside your treat.
• Gelato: A scoop of dairy-free gelato can elevate your dessert experience, adding creaminess and additional flavors that harmonize well with the Cannoli Cookies.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Serve with a cup of coffee or herbal tea to create a cozy atmosphere; their warmth complements the sweet richness of the cookies perfectly.

Now that you’re armed with these handy tips and serving suggestions, get ready to impress your friends and family with these delightful Cannoli Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in sweet bites throughout the week without the fuss of daily baking. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them for optimal enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover cookies in an airtight container.
• Store them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them where they will last about a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a sealed freezer bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.

How long do Cannoli Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Cannoli Cookies can last about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I use different fillings for Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as mascarpone cheese or flavored creams. The versatility is part of the fun!

Are Cannoli Cookies suitable for freezing?

Yes, these cookies freeze wonderfully! Just ensure they are cooled completely and stored properly as mentioned above.

What makes Cannoli Cookies unique?

Cannoli Cookies combine the beloved flavors of traditional cannolis into a delightful cookie form, providing that signature crispy shell with a creamy filling in every bite.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Cannoli Cookies as much as I do! They bring together that classic taste we all love while being easy enough to whip up any time. Whether it’s a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet, these cookies will surely bring joy. Happy baking!