If you adore the classic Italian treat but want a fun, bite-sized twist, this Cannoli Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These soft, ricotta-based cookies capture the rich creaminess and delightful flavors of the traditional cannoli filling, enhanced with warm cinnamon and bursts of mini chocolate chips. Every bite offers a subtle almond and vanilla aroma, balanced by a light dusting of powdered sugar that feels like a sweet hug straight from an Italian bakery. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become your go-to dessert for sharing with friends and family on any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients for this Cannoli Cookies Recipe is easier than you might think, and each element plays an essential role. From the creamy ricotta cheese that keeps the cookies tender, to the aromatic spices and mix-ins that make each bite memorable, every component counts toward the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup, drained): Provides moisture and a soft crumb, so make sure to drain it well to avoid sogginess.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the dough without overpowering the natural flavors.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together and adds structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warm, inviting sweetness.
- Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle nutty note reminiscent of cannoli filling.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the base to hold the lovely soft dough.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just right for a tender, cakey bite.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a cozy spice that warms the palate.
- Mini chocolate chips (3/4 cup): Deliver little pockets of melty chocolate joy in every cookie.
- Chopped pistachios (1/2 cup, optional): Offers crunch and a vibrant pop of color, but you can swap with walnuts or candied orange peel for a twist.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): The final touch that mimics traditional cannoli presentation beautifully.
How to Make Cannoli Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the drained ricotta cheese, softened butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, giving your cookies that wonderfully tender texture.
Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts
Next, mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until everything is smoothly combined. The almond and vanilla extracts bring that signature cannoli essence into your cookies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Combining these dry ingredients well ensures the spices and rising agent are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring until the dough forms softly but holds together well. Don’t overmix here — just enough to combine.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Pistachios
Now for the fun part! Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and the chopped pistachios if you’re using them. These mix-ins add texture, surprise, and a lovely color contrast within every cookie.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft.
Step 8: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar to give them that authentic, snowy finish reminiscent of a traditional cannoli.
How to Serve Cannoli Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle a few whole pistachios or chocolate chips on the serving plate around the cookies. You can also pipe a little sweet ricotta filling alongside for dipping, mimicking the classic cannoli style.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a strong espresso or a creamy cappuccino to highlight their Italian heritage. For a festive dessert plate, add fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Cannoli Cookies Recipe on a tiered dessert stand for a charming gathering centerpiece. Wrap individual cookies in wax paper tied with a colorful ribbon for gift-giving, or stack them with parchment paper in a cookie jar for a cozy, inviting kitchen decoration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, preserving that perfect tender texture.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them into a freezer bag once solid. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy your cookies warm, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes. This brings back their just-baked softness without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
You can try replacing ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese, but ricotta gives the best authentic soft texture and the mild, creamy flavor that defines the recipe. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture regardless of your choice.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
If almond extract isn’t on hand, you can simply omit it or add a little extra vanilla extract. However, almond extract is iconic for capturing the distinct cannoli flavor.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Be mindful that texture might vary slightly but these cookies are forgiving and still delicious.
How do I keep the cookies soft?
Make sure not to overbake and always cool the cookies on a wire rack to stop the cooking process. Storing them airtight prevents them from drying out and keeps them moist.
Can I add other fillings or flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to add candied orange peel, dried cherries, or even a swirl of Nutella inside the dough ball before baking for a unique twist on this classic Cannoli Cookies Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Cannoli Cookies Recipe truly brings together the best of two worlds: the beloved Italian cannoli flavor in a soft, approachable cookie form that anyone can make at home. Share them at your next gathering or savor them over a quiet cup of coffee—you’ll find they’re just as comforting as they are delicious. Give them a try, and prepare for compliments from every corner!
Print
Cannoli Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the creamy, tender texture of these Italian-American Cannoli Cookies, which combine ricotta cheese, warm cinnamon, mini chocolate chips, and optional pistachios for a delicious twist on a classic cannoli flavor. Perfectly baked to light golden edges and dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies offer a sweet holiday treat that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly flavorful.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Add-ins and Toppings
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together drained ricotta cheese, softened unsalted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, indicating well-incorporated ingredients.
- Add Egg and Extracts: Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the creamy mixture, mixing thoroughly to blend all flavors evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon to ensure even distribution of leavening and spices.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a soft dough forms without overworking.
- Fold in Chips and Nuts: Gently fold mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios (if using) into the dough to distribute them evenly.
- Form Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the lined baking sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Place baking sheets in the oven and bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn lightly golden and the centers are set, indicating they are cooked through.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess.
- Finish with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar to enhance their sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure ricotta cheese is well drained to avoid extra moisture that could make the dough too soft.
- Pistachios are optional; swap them with chopped walnuts or candied orange peel for traditional cannoli flavors.
- Use parchment paper on baking sheets for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
