Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious treat that brings smiles all around, you’ve come to the right place! Cannoli Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. These cookies combine a crispy, buttery shell with a sweet ricotta filling, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is such a cherished favorite in my home.

What I love most about these Cannoli Cookies is how easy they are to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up something truly special that impresses both family and friends. Plus, they’re wonderfully versatile—great for celebrations or just as an everyday treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies ready to bake in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents will adore these sweet bites filled with creamy ricotta.
• Make-ahead convenience: These cookies stay fresh for days, making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
• Deliciously versatile: Customize your filling with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Cannoli Cookies is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple and wholesome items, easily found in your kitchen or local store.

For the Cookie Dough

• 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

For the Filling

• 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! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Try different fillings: Swap out mini chocolate chips for dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a fruity twist.
• Change the nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pistachios if those are more to your liking.
• Add spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough adds warmth and depth to each bite.
• Make it 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 step ensures that your Cannoli Cookies bake evenly and turn golden brown.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar until well blended. This helps distribute the sugar throughout the dough, ensuring every bite is sweet!

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. This creamy mixture will be the heart of our cookies.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. It’s important not to overmix; we want our cookies tender!

Step 5: Let It Rest

Cover your dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, resulting in more tender cookies.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Rolling it out evenly will help ensure consistent baking.

Step 7: Cut Shapes

Cut the rolled-out dough into rectangles or squares, approximately 2×3 inches. These shapes will hold our delicious filling perfectly!

Step 8: Prepare Filling

In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese with chocolate chips and chopped pistachios. This rich filling will bring joy in every bite!

Step 9: Fill Each Cookie

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

Step 10: Bake Your Cookies

Place your filled cookies on lined baking sheets and bake them for about 15-18 minutes until they turn golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 11: Cool Down

Let them cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps firm up the cookies.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Cannoli Cookies! Feel free to dust them with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making Cannoli Cookies can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your baking game!

• Use Fresh Ricotta: Opt for freshly made ricotta rather than store-bought when possible. This enhances the creaminess of the filling and gives your cookies a richer flavor.

• Chill the Dough: If you’re having trouble rolling out your dough, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. A cooler dough is easier to handle and helps maintain its shape during baking.

• Sealing Technique: To ensure your cookies remain sealed during baking, press the edges firmly with a fork or your fingers after adding the filling. This prevents any delicious filling from leaking out!

• Experiment with Fillings: While the traditional combination of chocolate chips and pistachios is fantastic, feel free to experiment! Try adding dried fruit, such as cherries or apricots, for a unique twist on flavor.

• Don’t Skip the Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the sweetness of each bite.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Presenting your Cannoli Cookies beautifully can make them even more appealing! Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: Adding a few fresh strawberries or raspberries next to your cookies brings color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
• Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of green and a hint of freshness, making your plate look inviting and vibrant.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the flavors of the Cannoli Cookies beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in texture.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits provides a refreshing side that balances the richness of the cookies.
• Espresso or Coffee: Serving these cookies alongside a cup of strong espresso or coffee enhances their flavors while providing a lovely caffeine kick.
• Chocolate Fondue: For an interactive dessert experience, consider pairing with chocolate fondue where guests can dip their cookies into warm chocolate!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cannoli Cookies will not only taste amazing but will also impress anyone you share them with! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make these cookies ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment, making them perfect for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, prepare the cookies as per the recipe but do not bake them.
• Arrange the filled cookies on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Avoid microwaving as it may make the cookies soggy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making these Cannoli Cookies!

Can I use different fillings in my Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like mascarpone cheese or flavored cream cheese. Just ensure they fit well within the cookie without being too runny.

How do I make my Cannoli Cookies crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispiness, ensure you roll the dough thin enough and bake until they are golden brown. Also, allow them to cool properly on a wire rack after baking.

Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these delicious cookies ahead of time and store them as mentioned above. They keep well in both the fridge and freezer!

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese in Cannoli Cookies?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or even a vegan cream cheese if you prefer a dairy-free option.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This Cannoli Cookies recipe yields about 8 generous servings, perfect for sharing with friends or family!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Cannoli Cookies! Their delightful combination of crispy shells and creamy filling is sure to bring smiles all around. Whether you’re preparing them for a gathering or treating yourself during a quiet moment at home, I know you’ll love every bite. Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!