Cannoli Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the creamy goodness of cannoli with the delightful crunch of cookies, then you absolutely have to try these Cannoli Cookies! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings back memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying or for those moments when friends drop by unexpectedly. Plus, who can resist the charm of a cookie that’s filled with sweet ricotta goodness?

These Cannoli Cookies are not just a dessert; they are an experience. You’ll enjoy every step of making them, and even more so, every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for any skill level.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the delicious flavors, especially with mini chocolate chips in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Treat: Feel free to prepare the dough in advance! You can bake them fresh whenever you want a sweet treat.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar adds warmth and sweetness, while the creamy filling takes these cookies over the top.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our delightful Cannoli Cookies. Don’t worry; these are pantry staples that you probably already have at home!

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Ricotta Filling

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For Rolling

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for rolling)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to put your own spin on these delicious Cannoli Cookies! Here are a few fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for an extra crunch.
• Change the Chips: Swap out mini chocolate chips for butterscotch or peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom instead of cinnamon for unique tastes.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

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 come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important as it helps evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout your dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which gives your cookies that lovely texture we all adore. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies, which we definitely want to avoid!

Step 5: Make the Ricotta Filling

In another bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until everything is well blended. This filling is what makes these Cannoli Cookies so special!

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. This adds a delightful sweetness right on the outside!

Step 7: Bake Them Up

Place your rolled balls on a prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges turn lightly golden—your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 8: Cool Down Before Filling

Once baked, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is crucial as it helps them firm up before adding that delicious filling.

Step 9: Fill Those Cookies!

After completely cooling down, spread about a teaspoon of your ricotta filling on one flat side of each cookie. Sandwich it with another cookie—voilà! Your Cannoli Cookies are ready to enjoy.

This recipe yields about 24 delightful cookies that are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste them! Enjoy sharing these treats with family and friends or savoring them all by yourself—they’re that good!

Pro Tips for Making Cannoli Cookies

Making these delightful Cannoli Cookies is a breeze, and with a few pro tips, you’ll elevate your baking game to new heights!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your butter and egg to come to room temperature ensures they blend smoothly, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cookie.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing until just combined helps maintain the cookies’ tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!

• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to swap out mini chocolate chips for other mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit. These variations can add unique flavors and textures to your cannoli cookies.

• Store properly for freshness: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage. This helps maintain their delightful taste and texture.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Presenting your Cannoli Cookies beautifully will impress family and friends alike! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and enhances the visual appeal.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some dairy-free chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for a rich finish that complements the flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies. Think berries, melons, and citrus for a refreshing contrast.
• Vanilla almond milk: Pair your cookies with a chilled glass of vanilla almond milk as a creamy drink that enhances the dessert experience.
• Herbal tea: Serve with a warm cup of herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint. The soothing flavors create a wonderful pairing after enjoying your sweet treat.
• Coconut whipped cream: For an extra indulgence, serve these cookies alongside some light coconut whipped cream. Its airy texture and subtle sweetness complement the ricotta filling beautifully.

With these serving suggestions, your Cannoli Cookies will not only taste divine but also look stunning on any dessert table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you’ve already filled them, it’s best to keep the filling separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• Place unfilled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• The ricotta filling can also be frozen in a separate container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat filled cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Unfilled cookies can be eaten straight from the freezer or allowed to thaw at room temperature.

FAQs

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

Can I make Cannoli Cookies dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut yogurt for a delicious twist!

What makes these Cannoli Cookies special?

The combination of crispy cinnamon-sugar cookies with a creamy ricotta filling makes these Cannoli Cookies truly unique and delightful!

How should I store my Cannoli Cookies?

To keep your Cannoli Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If filled, consider storing the filling separately.

Final Thoughts

These Cannoli Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavor and creativity! I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all by yourself. Happy baking, and may each bite bring you joy!