Cannoli Cookies: A Sweet Twist on an Italian Classic
There’s something irresistibly charming about a traditional cannoli — the sweet, creamy ricotta filling encased in a crispy shell. But what if you could enjoy those same delightful flavors in a soft, chewy cookie? Enter the Cannoli Cookie: a scrumptious treat that bursts with the flavors and textures of its namesake. With its inviting aroma and rich taste, this cookie is destined to become your new favorite dessert.
Imagine pulling a batch of these cookies from the oven, their gentle warmth mingling with the sweet scent of vanilla and ricotta. Each bite reveals a chewy texture, complemented by the occasional crunch of mini chocolate chips and the subtle hint of pistachios. The dance of flavors — creamy, sweet, and nutty — makes these cookies irresistible, perfect for savoring while sipping your morning coffee or sharing at a family gathering.
These Cannoli Cookies are ideal for cozy mornings when you crave a sweet treat to start your day. They also shine at family gatherings or celebrations, adding a nostalgic flair that everyone will love. Best of all, they’re simple and quick to whip up, giving you a delicious homemade dessert without hours in the kitchen.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Nutrition Information (per cookie):
- Calories: 85 kcal
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
(Nutritional information is estimated based on standard ingredient values and should be confirmed with specific brands used.)
Why Make This Recipe
These Cannoli Cookies deliver all the rich flavors of traditional cannoli but in a bite-sized format that’s both delightful and easy to enjoy. They are wonderfully aromatic, with the sweet notes of vanilla and the creamy essence of ricotta. Plus, their soft and chewy texture will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you serve them at brunch, as an afternoon treat, or at a holiday gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms but being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios, if using.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- If using the egg wash, brush the tops of the cookies with beaten egg.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Baking Tips
- Make sure not to overmix the dough; gentle folding is best to keep the cookies tender.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough.
- To check for doneness, the bottoms should be lightly golden without browning too much on top.
How to Serve
These cookies can be enjoyed straight off the baking sheet, but for an elevated experience, try serving them warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. Pair with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. They also taste delightful when lightly toasted and drizzled with honey.
How to Store
Store leftover Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, ensure they are completely cooled, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results when serving.
Expert Tips
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk ricotta instead of low-fat options.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like chopped almonds or dried fruit for a unique touch.
- If using alternative flours, be aware that the texture may vary; almond flour can yield a denser cookie.
Delicious Variations
- Vegan Cannoli Cookies: Substitute ricotta with a dairy-free version and replace the egg with a flax egg.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Add cinnamon to the dough and swirl in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use store-bought ricotta cheese?
Yes, store-bought ricotta works perfectly, just ensure it’s fresh for the best flavor. -
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour, a tablespoon at a time, until manageable. -
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge before baking. -
How can I make it more festive for the holidays?
Consider adding festive spices such as nutmeg or cloves, or even a splash of liqueur like amaretto for a special touch. -
What are some serving ideas?
Serve alongside a scoop of gelato or with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra decadence.
Conclusion
These Cannoli Cookies are more than just a delightful dessert; they’re an expression of warmth and joy that you can share with friends and family. With their soft texture and rich flavors, they’ll surely become a beloved staple in your kitchen. We invite you to try this recipe and feel the familiar embrace of traditional Italian flavors paired with the joy of baking. Be sure to share your thoughts, adaptations, or any creative twists you come up with as you enjoy these wonderful cookies!
Print
Cannoli Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A scrumptious treat that bursts with the flavors and textures of traditional cannoli presented in a soft, chewy cookie form.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms but being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios, if using.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- If using the egg wash, brush the tops of the cookies with beaten egg.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough. Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
