When you think of indulgent treats that blend crispy shells with a sweet, creamy filling, you might picture traditional cannoli. But what if I told you that you could enjoy the same delightful flavors and textures in a cookie? Presenting Cannoli Cookies! These cookies are a playful homage to the classic Italian dessert, merging the beloved components into bite-sized pieces that will quickly become a family favorite. Imagine sinking your teeth into a crunchy cookie that gives way to a creamy, ricotta filling and is sprinkled with mini chocolate chips; it’s a mouthwatering experience you won’t want to miss!
Growing up, I remember my grandma always saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these Cannoli Cookies are a perfect example of how a simple treat can bring everyone together during family gatherings. If you’ve enjoyed my other cookie recipes like the Chocolate Chip Hazelnut Cookies or the Lemon Zest Shortbread, you’ll find a special kind of satisfaction in these Cannoli Cookies that you simply can’t resist!
What Are Cannoli Cookies?
You might be wondering, “Where did the name Cannoli Cookies come from?” Well, it’s quite simple! They take inspiration from the iconic Italian pastry, cannoli, which typically features a crispy shell filled with sweet ricotta cheese. Picture this: tiny, delightful cookies that boast all the flavors of that creamy goodness but in the ease of a hand-held treat! They’re perfect not just for dessert but also for snacking with a cup of tea or coffee. After all, homemade cookies are the ultimate comfort food, and these Cannoli Cookies are a testament to that. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a batch that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love These Cannoli Cookies
These Cannoli Cookies are a total game-changer! Firstly, while they deliver a tempting, delectable taste reminiscent of the classic cannoli, they are much easier to make and enjoy. No need for complicated pastry-making techniques! Secondly, making these at home is incredibly budget-friendly. You get all the joy of gourmet baking without the need to splurge at a bakery. Lastly, let’s talk about toppings! You can sprinkle them with mini chocolate chips, toasted pistachios, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar for that extra flair. They are a true treat for the senses! If you love cookies as much as I do, these will undoubtedly become a staple in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re celebrating a family gathering or simply treating yourself, you won’t want to miss out on making these Cannoli Cookies!
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
Quick Overview
What’s not to love about Cannoli Cookies? They are easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and absolutely delicious! The wonderful balance of crispy cookie and creamy filling means every bite is a delightful surprise. Preparing these tasty treats takes about 30 minutes, and your kitchen will be filled with the aroma of sweet nostalgia!
Key Ingredients for Cannoli Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to create these scrumptious Cannoli Cookies:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – for the cookie base
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – to help the cookies rise
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances flavor
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – for a rich taste
- 1 large egg – binds everything together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a hint of flavor
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – for that creamy filling
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar – sweetens the filling
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – adds warmth
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (optional) – for an extra treat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Cream the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Filling: While the cookies cool, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Stir in the mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Fill the Cookies: Once the cookies are cool, gently slice them in half and spoon the ricotta mixture into the center. Press the halves back together to create sandwiches.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve your Cannoli Cookies at family gatherings or enjoy them as a delightful snack!
Top Tips for Perfecting Cannoli Cookies
- Substitutions: If you want a slightly different flavor, consider using mascarpone cheese instead of ricotta for a creamier filling. You can also substitute the mini chocolate chips with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
- Timing: Make sure to let your cookies cool completely before filling them. This prevents the filling from melting and creates the perfect texture.
- Avoiding Mistakes: Ensure not to overmix the dough, which can lead to tough cookies. Keep it light and fluffy for that perfect softness!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your Cannoli Cookies, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are well wrapped, and they should last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or warm them in the oven at a low temperature just until they are soft. Never microwave, as that can make them chewy instead of maintaining their delightful texture.
Now that you have this delicious recipe for Cannoli Cookies, I challenge you to try making these delightful treats at home! Your family will thank you, and you’ll surely want to make them time and time again!
Cannoli Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for the cookie base
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder to help the cookies rise
- 1/4 teaspoon salt enhances flavor
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened for a rich taste
- 1 large egg binds everything together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds a hint of flavor
For the filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese for that creamy filling
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar sweetens the filling
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon adds warmth
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips optional, for an extra treat
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined; the dough will be slightly sticky.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden, then let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Filling and Serving
- While the cookies cool, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Stir in the mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Once the cookies are cool, gently slice them in half and spoon the ricotta mixture into the center. Press the halves back together to create sandwiches.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve your Cannoli Cookies at family gatherings or enjoy them as a delightful snack.
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