Cannoli Cookies

If you love the rich, creamy filling of a cannoli, then you’ll adore these Cannoli Cookies! Inspired by the beloved Italian pastry, these cookies offer all the delicious flavors of a traditional cannoli, but in a convenient, bite-sized treat. With a crisp and slightly sweet cookie base, filled with a creamy ricotta and chocolate chip filling, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth during the holidays, at family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something special. Their unique flavor combination and texture make them an irresistible treat you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Authentic Cannoli Flavor

These cookies capture the true essence of cannoli, with the creamy ricotta filling and sweet flavor profile, offering an authentic taste of Italy in every bite.

2. Fun Twist on a Classic

Instead of making traditional cannoli, these cookies provide the same great taste in a more manageable, bite-sized form.

3. Perfectly Sweet and Creamy

The sweet ricotta filling paired with a crisp cookie shell strikes a perfect balance between texture and flavor, giving you the best of both worlds.

4. Easy to Make

This recipe simplifies the process of making cannoli by turning them into easy-to-make cookies, so you can enjoy them with much less effort.

5. Customizable

You can add various mix-ins such as chocolate chips, citrus zest, or even a little bit of cinnamon to customize the flavor to your liking.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Egg
• Baking powder
• Vanilla extract
• Ricotta cheese
• Mini chocolate chips
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Optional: ground cinnamon or orange zest for extra flavor

Variations

• Chocolate Dipped Cannoli Cookies: After filling the cookies, dip the edges in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
• Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest to the ricotta filling for a refreshing twist on the classic cannoli flavor.
• Pistachios: Fold in chopped pistachios into the filling for an added crunch and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of these cookies.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until fully combined. Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing until the dough comes together.

Step 2: Roll and Shape the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut the dough into circles. Place the circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before filling.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, and powdered sugar. You can add a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest for extra flavor. Mix everything until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Fill the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled, pipe or spoon a generous amount of the ricotta filling onto one cookie and then sandwich it with another. Press gently to secure the filling inside.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Dust the filled cannoli cookies with powdered sugar and serve. Enjoy these delightful treats with a cup of coffee or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Well-Drained Ricotta: Make sure the ricotta cheese is well-drained to avoid a watery filling. You can place it in a fine mesh strainer for a few hours to drain any excess moisture.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out and cut.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the cookies with the ricotta mixture, as it can make them harder to seal and could result in a messy treat.
• Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should be golden but not browned, as overbaking can make them too crisp.

How to Serve

Cannoli cookies are perfect for any occasion! Serve them at family gatherings, dinner parties, or during the holidays. They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a dessert wine. For an extra special touch, serve them with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the filled cannoli cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. They are best enjoyed within a couple of days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

To freeze, place the filled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can store them for up to 1 month. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

These cookies are best served fresh or at room temperature. If you want to warm them slightly, you can heat them in the microwave for a few seconds, but avoid heating for too long as it can alter the texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use ricotta cheese substitutes?

For a lighter filling, you can use mascarpone cheese or cream cheese, though they will alter the flavor slightly. Ricotta is the traditional choice for the most authentic cannoli flavor.

2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough and filling in advance. Store the dough in the fridge for up to 2 days and the filling in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before assembling.

3. Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Absolutely! You can add vanilla, lemon zest, cinnamon, or even a splash of rum or orange liqueur for a more complex flavor.

4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cookies gluten-free.

5. Can I make the dough without eggs?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute such as flaxseed meal mixed with water or store-bought egg replacers to make the dough egg-free.

6. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Roll it into a disk, wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the fridge before rolling and baking.

7. Can I add chocolate chips to the cookie dough?

Yes! If you love extra chocolate flavor, feel free to add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a delicious chocolatey twist.

8. Can I use a different filling for these cookies?

While the ricotta filling is classic, you can experiment with other fillings like whipped cream cheese, mascarpone, or a fruit-based filling for a unique variation.

9. How do I prevent the cookies from getting soggy?

Ensure that the ricotta filling is well-drained, and avoid assembling the cookies too far in advance. They’re best when assembled just before serving.

10. Can I decorate the cookies?

Definitely! You can drizzle chocolate over the top, sprinkle with crushed pistachios, or add colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.

Conclusion

Cannoli Cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian pastry, offering the perfect balance of sweet, creamy filling and crispy, golden cookie. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, these cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying with a cup of coffee. Whether for a holiday treat or a special occasion, these Cannoli Cookies will bring the flavors of Italy to your home in the most delicious way possible!

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