When the sweet scent of warm ricotta mingles with the nutty aroma of chopped pistachios, I can’t help but feel transported to a bustling Italian bakery. This feeling sparked a delightful discovery in my own kitchen: Cannoli Cookies! These enchanting treats are a playful spin on the classic Italian cannoli, marrying a crisp, golden exterior with a luscious, creamy filling that is simply irresistible.
Perfect for gatherings, coffee breaks, or even as a treat for yourself, this recipe is a fantastic way to indulge without the fuss of traditional pastry-making. And for those who prefer gluten-free options, a simple swap of almond flour opens the door to everyone savoring these rich flavors. Join me on this exciting culinary adventure, and let’s fill our homes with joy and the heavenly taste of Cannoli Cookies!
Why are Cannoli Cookies so irresistible?
Unforgettable Flavor: The delightful combination of ricotta, chocolate, and pistachios creates an explosion of rich, sweet, and nutty flavors that are hard to resist.
Simple Process: You won’t need professional pastry skills – this recipe is easy enough for anyone to follow and perfect for a weekend baking spree.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a family gathering or cozy coffee break, these cookies are an instant crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more.
Gluten-Free Option: With a quick almond flour swap, everyone can join in on the deliciousness without gluten concerns.
Make Ahead: Prep these treats in advance and store them for a sweet surprise after dinner, ensuring your days are filled with scrumptious joy.
Cannoli Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookie; substitute with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; no direct substitutions suggested.
- Large egg – Binds the ingredients together and aids in moisture; no substitutes for binding recommended.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; use pure vanilla for the best taste.
- Lemon zest – Adds brightness and freshness; essential for flavor depth but can be omitted if desired.
For the Filling
- Ricotta cheese – Creates a creamy, rich filling; essential for the authentic cannoli taste and can be swapped with mascarpone for extra indulgence.
- Mini chocolate chips – Provide sweetness and texture, integral for the filling; dark chocolate chips work well as a substitute.
- Chopped pistachios – Adds crunch and unique flavor, a key ingredient for the traditional cannoli experience; walnuts or almonds could be alternative options.
For Dusting
- Powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and a decorative touch for finishing; no substitutions necessary.
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for perfectly baked cookies.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until well blended and fluffy.
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Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, forming a soft dough. Don’t overmix, as we want a light texture!
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Rest Dough: Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes on the counter to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll.
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Prepare Baking Sheets: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
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Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick and cut it into 2×3-inch rectangles for a classic cookie shape.
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Prepare Filling: In a bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of ricotta cheese, ½ cup of mini chocolate chips, and ¼ cup of chopped pistachios until well combined for that creamy filling.
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Fill Cookies: Spoon a tablespoon of the filling onto the center of each cookie rectangle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal securely.
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Bake: Place the filled cookies on the prepared sheets and bake for 15-18 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant.
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Cool and Dust: Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving to add a sweet finish.
Optional: Serve these delightful Cannoli Cookies with a cup of espresso for a perfect pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful crispiness.
Fridge: If you want to extend the lifespan, store them in the fridge for up to a week, but note that this may slightly soften the texture.
Freezer: Freeze Cannoli Cookies for up to 1 month. Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. This restores their crispy exterior and melts the chocolate chips beautifully.
What to Serve with Cannoli Cookies?
Imagine pairing these delightful cookies with the perfect accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience to an unforgettable level.
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Rich Espresso: An Italian classic, the bold flavor of espresso complements the sweetness of Cannoli Cookies beautifully, creating a harmonious balance. The warmth of the coffee brings out the rich tones of the chocolate and nuts.
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Fresh Berries: A burst of freshness from strawberries or raspberries adds a vibrant contrast to the rich flavors. Their natural acidity cuts through the sweetness, making every bite more exciting.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling molten chocolate over your cookies adds an indulgent touch. This extra layer of sweetness enhances the chocolate chips within and feels like a luxurious treat.
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Lemon Sorbet: The refreshing citrus notes of lemon sorbet cleanse the palate and provide a delightful contrast to the creamy filling. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy these cookies after a filling meal.
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Sweet Dessert Wine: A glass of Moscato or Vin Santo enhances the Italian heritage of your meal while adding sweetness. The fruity notes accentuate the rich flavors of both the cookie and filling.
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Chopped Nuts: Serve Cannoli Cookies sprinkled with additional chopped pistachios or almonds for a crunchy bite. They not only enhance texture but also reinforce the traditional cannoli flavor.
These pairings will create a delightful ambiance for any gathering, making your Cannoli Cookies the star of the show!
Tips for the Best Cannoli Cookies
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Drain Ricotta: Ensure ricotta is well-drained for at least 30 minutes to avoid soggy cookies and maintain the perfect texture.
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Flour Dusted Surface: Use a generous amount of flour on your work surface while rolling out the dough; this prevents sticking and keeps the cookies from tearing.
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Even Baking: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking to ensure even cooking, allowing every cookie to achieve that golden-brown finish.
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Cool Completely: Let your Cannoli Cookies cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar; this helps the sugar adhere better and avoid melting into the warm cookies.
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Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to mix up the fillings! Try adding dried fruits or different nuts to give your Cannoli Cookies a unique twist.
Cannoli Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful treats to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
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Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the flour for an exciting twist that packs an extra punch of flavor.
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Nutty Twist: Swap the pistachios for hazelnuts or almonds to switch up the texture and taste of your delightful filling.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in some chopped dried cherries or raisins with your filling to introduce a wonderful burst of sweetness and chewiness.
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Chocolate Lovers: Finally, for an indulgent chocolatey cookie, add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough, enhancing the overall richness.
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Lemon Zest Alternative: If you’re not keen on lemon, simply omit it or replace it with a splash of orange zest for a citrusy twist that brightens the flavors.
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Less Sweet: Reduce the granulated sugar in the dough by a couple of tablespoons for a less sweet, more cookie-like experience.
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Savory Option: Intrigued by a different take? Try adding some finely grated Parmesan cheese to the filling for a unique savory experience that will surprise your taste buds.
Make Ahead Options
These Cannoli Cookies are absolutely perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough and covering it tightly in plastic wrap to refrigerate, which helps flavors meld beautifully. The filling can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just roll out the chilled dough, fill, and pinch the edges to seal before placing them in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, decadent Cannoli Cookies with minimal effort on busy weeknights, keeping your homemade treats just as delicious and delightful!
Cannoli Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ricotta cheese is fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting ricotta cheese, look for a creamy texture and a pleasant dairy aroma. Avoid any containers with dark spots or an off smell, as this could indicate spoilage. If you’re using homemade ricotta, make sure to consume it within a few days for the best flavor and quality!
How should I store leftover Cannoli Cookies?
For optimal freshness, keep your Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to stay crisp, place a piece of bread in the container to absorb moisture. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, though they may soften a bit.
Can I freeze Cannoli Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze Cannoli Cookies, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their quality for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste!
What should I do if my dough is sticky?
No worries! If your dough seems too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour on your work surface and gently knead it into the dough until it reaches the right consistency. Remember, if you add too much flour, it can alter the cookie texture, so be cautious and add flour gradually.
Is there a gluten-free option for Cannoli Cookies?
Yes! You can easily transform this recipe into a gluten-free delight by substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour. This swap will give the cookies a distinct nutty flavor while keeping the texture delightful. Just ensure you use gluten-free certified ingredients throughout the recipe!
Irresistible Cannoli Cookies You'll Want to Bake Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot enough for perfectly baked cookies.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until well blended and fluffy.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, forming a soft dough.
- Rest Dough: Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes on the counter to relax the gluten.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick and cut it into 2x3-inch rectangles.
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of ricotta cheese, ½ cup of mini chocolate chips, and ¼ cup of chopped pistachios until well combined.
- Fill Cookies: Spoon a tablespoon of the filling onto the center of each cookie rectangle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
- Bake: Place the filled cookies on the prepared sheets and bake for 15-18 minutes until they’re golden brown.
- Cool and Dust: Let the cookies cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar to add a sweet finish.