Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful way to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen, these Cannoli Cookies are just the treat! They perfectly capture the essence of the beloved Italian dessert in a cookie form. With their tender texture and sweet ricotta filling, they are a favorite in my household. These cookies are not just a delicious dessert; they’re versatile enough for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a cozy evening at home with a cup of tea.

What makes this Cannoli Cookies recipe special is how easy it is to whip up. You can have these treats ready in no time, making them perfect for those busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers. Trust me, once you taste these little bites of joy, they will quickly become a go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet filling is sure to please both kids and adults alike; everyone will be reaching for seconds!
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and bake whenever you’re ready, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies fit any occasion—whether it’s a weekday dessert or a festive gathering.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ricotta, chocolate chips, and pistachios offers a unique twist that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to make these Cannoli Cookies! Each one plays an important role in creating the delicious flavor and texture we love.

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

For Dusting

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Variations

This Cannoli Cookies recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or add-ins.

• Change the Nuts: Swap out the pistachios for toasted almonds or walnuts for a different crunch.
• Add Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange zest along with or instead of lemon for a bright twist.
• Try Different Fillings: Mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries with the ricotta for added sweetness.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar until well blended. This step helps distribute the sugar evenly throughout the dough for consistent sweetness in every bite.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. This mixture creates a creamy base that adds moisture and flavor to our cookies.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to your wet ingredients while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; we want our dough to be tender!

Step 5: Rest Your Dough

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

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheets

While your dough rests, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Dust your work surface with flour and roll out that rested dough to about ¼ inch thick. This thickness gives us that lovely crispness on the outside while keeping it soft inside.

Step 8: Cut Rectangles

Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled-out dough into rectangles measuring about 2×3 inches. These will be our cookie bases ready to envelop that dreamy filling.

Step 9: Make Filling Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together more ricotta cheese with mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios. This filling adds texture and flavor that mimic traditional cannoli cream!

Step 10: Fill Cookies

Place a spoonful of your filling in the center of each rectangle. Then fold over one side to create a pocket—like cradling deliciousness!

Step 11: Seal Edges

Pinch the edges tightly so no filling escapes during baking. We want all that goodness inside!

Step 12: Bake & Cool

Bake your cookies for about 15-18 minutes until they’re golden brown. Once done, let them cool on a wire rack before dusting them lightly with powdered sugar.

Now you’re ready to share (or keep them all for yourself)! Enjoy these delightful Cannoli Cookies with family or friends—you’ll be glad you did!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making Cannoli Cookies is a delightful experience, and I want to share some tips to ensure yours turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ricotta: Fresh ricotta provides a creamier texture and richer flavor than store-bought varieties. If you can find it, go for the artisanal brands or make your own at home!

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to rest before rolling helps it relax, making it easier to handle. A chilled dough also results in a lighter cookie.

• Seal edges well: To prevent any filling from leaking out during baking, make sure to pinch the edges of your cookies tightly. This ensures a delightful surprise when you bite into them!

• Experiment with fillings: While the classic filling is delicious, feel free to get creative! Try adding different nuts or even a hint of orange zest for a unique twist.

• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them without dusting with powdered sugar and thaw before serving.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

These Cannoli Cookies are not just tasty but also visually appealing! Here are some creative ways to present them that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances their dessert appeal.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzling some melted chocolate over the cookies can elevate their look and add an extra layer of flavor.
• Chopped pistachios: Sprinkling additional chopped pistachios on top gives them a beautiful contrast and enhances their nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad pairs perfectly with the sweet richness of Cannoli Cookies, balancing the flavors beautifully.
• Vanilla or almond gelato: The creamy texture of gelato complements these cookies wonderfully, making for a delightful dessert experience.
• Italian espresso: Enjoying your cookies alongside a shot of rich Italian espresso creates a wonderful interaction between sweet and bitter flavors.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea offers a soothing complement that makes for an inviting afternoon treat.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Cannoli Cookies in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making them an excellent treat to have on hand for busy days or unexpected guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen Cannoli Cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before rolling out and baking. This makes it easy to have fresh cookies anytime!

What variations can I try with Cannoli Cookies?

Feel free to experiment with different fillings! You can add dried fruits like cherries or swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate. The options are endless!

How do I know when my Cannoli Cookies are done baking?

Your cookies are ready when they turn a lovely golden brown color on the edges. Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they don’t overcook.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta in Cannoli Cookies?

While ricotta is traditional, you can use mascarpone or cottage cheese as alternatives. Just strain any excess liquid if using cottage cheese!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen as much as it does to mine! These Cannoli Cookies capture the delightful essence of Italian desserts while being easy enough for any home baker. Enjoy making these sweet treats, share them with loved ones, and savor every bite! Happy baking!