Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that feels both indulgent and comforting, look no further than Cannoli Cookies! These cookies are the perfect blend of crispy shell and creamy filling, making them a beloved dessert in our home. Every bite is filled with sweet ricotta, mini chocolate chips, and crunchy pistachios, which creates an explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

What I adore about these Cannoli Cookies is their versatility. They can be whipped up for busy weeknights when you need a quick dessert or served at family gatherings to impress your guests. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a staple in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up these delicious cookies.
• Family-Friendly Treat: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy filling and crispy texture—perfect for all ages!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready.
• Deliciously Unique: These cookies offer a twist on traditional cannoli, bringing a familiar flavor in a fun new form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Cannoli Cookies recipe. You probably have most of these on hand already!

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

For Finishing Touch

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Variations

This Cannoli Cookies recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and fillings.

• Change the Nuts: Swap out pistachios for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Add Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth to the filling.
• Try Different Chips: Experiment with white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a unique twist.
• Make It Fruity: Fold in some dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.

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 develop that lovely golden color we all adore.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar until well blended. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the mixture, making your cookies light.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. The lemon zest adds a refreshing zing that brightens up the sweet ricotta!

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. Make sure not to overmix; you want it just combined for tender cookies.

Step 5: Rest Your Dough

Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes. This helps relax the gluten in the flour, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper while waiting. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Rolling it evenly ensures that all your cookies bake at the same rate.

Step 8: Cut Your Shapes

Cut the rolled dough into rectangles or squares, approximately 2×3 inches. Feel free to use cookie cutters if you want fun shapes!

Step 9: Create Your Filling

In a small bowl, mix together more ricotta cheese with mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios. This filling is what makes every bite so heavenly!

Step 10: Fill & Seal

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

Step 11: Bake Them Up!

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

Step 12: Cool & Enjoy!

Let them cool on baking sheets for just a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for that extra touch of sweetness!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Cannoli Cookies! Perfectly crisp on the outside and wonderfully creamy on the inside—what’s not to love?

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making Cannoli Cookies can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips will help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ricotta: Fresh ricotta adds a creamier texture and richer flavor to your filling, enhancing the overall taste of the cookies.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to rest not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps prevent shrinkage during baking, resulting in beautifully shaped cookies.
• Experiment with fillings: Don’t hesitate to mix things up! Try adding dried fruits or swapping pistachios for almonds or walnuts for a unique twist on this classic treat.
• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Ovens vary, so check them a minute or two early to avoid over-baking; you want them golden brown but not too dark.
• Dust before serving: A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving gives these cookies a beautiful finish and extra sweetness that enhances their appearance.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

These Cannoli Cookies are as delightful to present as they are to eat! Here are some ideas on how to showcase them beautifully at your next gathering or family meal.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar right before serving adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzling melted dark chocolate over the top of the cookies can enhance their visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and citrus can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Cannoli Cookies.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture and mild flavor of vanilla ice cream pair beautifully with these cookies, making for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea not only complements the sweetness but also provides a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying these delightful treats together.
• Cheese platter: Offer a selection of mild cheeses alongside your Cannoli Cookies. The creaminess of cheese can balance out the sweetness, creating an enjoyable tasting experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cannoli Cookies will surely impress everyone who gets a taste! Enjoy baking and sharing this sweet delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful taste even on busy days. You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They are best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
• If you notice any moisture, consider placing a paper towel inside the container to absorb it.

Freezing

• Allow the baked Cannoli Cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will maintain their quality for up to 2 months in the freezer.
• For easy access, you might want to separate layers with parchment paper.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can use the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but note that this may alter the texture slightly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Cannoli Cookies that might help you out!

Can I use different fillings for Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional, feel free to experiment with mascarpone or cream cheese. Adding different flavors like orange zest or almond extract can also be fun!

How do I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Store the dough wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it. Simply assemble and bake when you’re ready!

Can I substitute ingredients in Cannoli Cookies?

Yes! You can replace ricotta with dairy-free alternatives like tofu or cashew cream. For gluten-free options, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

What should I do if my Cannoli Cookies don’t seal properly?

If your cookies aren’t sealing well, ensure you’ve moistened the edges of the dough before folding. Press firmly to help them stick together, or you may need to adjust your dough thickness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Cannoli Cookies as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they bring warmth and comfort that makes any day feel special. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, I’m sure these cookies will be a hit. Happy baking!