Why You Should Make Cannoli Cookies
Who doesn’t love cookies? They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack or a fancy dessert. Cannoli cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, cannoli. They bring the rich, creamy flavors of cannoli into bite-sized cookie form. With their crunchy exterior and soft, creamy filling, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. They are easy to make and are a great way to bring a little bit of Italian flair to your kitchen. Imagine the compliments you’ll get when you serve these cookies at your next gathering!
These cookies are perfect to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make great gifts. You can pack them in a decorative box for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. The combination of all-purpose flour, butter, and ricotta cheese creates a unique texture that you won’t find in your average cookie. Plus, the mini chocolate chips add a wonderful burst of sweetness that perfectly compliments the flavors. If you’re looking to add something special to your cookie repertoire, this recipe is the way to go!
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
Making cannoli cookies is simple and fun. You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just follow the steps below, and soon enough, you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies to enjoy.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Cannoli Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 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
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for rolling)
Directions
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer or a sturdy spoon to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This may take a few minutes. The fluffier your mixture, the lighter your cookies will be.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture until well combined. This will add moisture and flavor to your cookies.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients from the medium bowl into the large bowl with the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop once everything is combined.
Make the Ricotta Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until everything is well combined. This filling is what makes these cookies special!
Form the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Then, roll each ball in a mixture of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. This adds extra sweetness and a lovely cinnamon sugar coating to your cookies.
Prepare to Bake: Place the coated dough balls on the lined baking sheet. Use your fingers to flatten each ball slightly.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown. Be careful not to overbake them; you want them to stay soft in the center.
Cooling: Once baked, let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This allows them to set before transferring them.
Assemble the Cookies: After the cookies have cooled slightly, spread about a teaspoon of the ricotta filling on one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. Repeat with the remaining cookies.
How to Serve Cannoli Cookies
Cannoli cookies are versatile and can be served in several ways. They are delicious on their own, but serving them with a creamy dip or alongside fresh fruit can add an extra touch. For a beautiful presentation, consider arranging the cookies on a decorative plate and dusting them with extra powdered sugar.
For parties or family gatherings, you can set up a dessert table with a variety of treats, including your cannoli cookies. Pair them with coffee, tea, or dessert wine to enhance the flavors further.
If serving these cookies for a holiday or special occasion, consider garnishing them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chocolate shavings on top for an elegant touch.
How to Store Cannoli Cookies
Storing your cannoli cookies correctly will help maintain their freshness for longer. Once the cookies are completely cooled, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to store them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Cannoli Cookies
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cannoli cookies turn out perfectly every time:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking powder and spices are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Do Not Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough seems too soft, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before forming the balls.
Adjust Filling: You can customize the filling by adding different mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or dried fruit, to create your unique flavor combination.
Keep an Eye on Baking: Ovens can vary, so start checking the cookies a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.
Variations of Cannoli Cookies
While the classic recipe is delicious as is, you might want to try some variations to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
Add Nuts: Chopped pistachios or almonds can be added to the ricotta filling for a crunchy texture.
Use Different Flavors: You can swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a more traditional Italian flavor.
Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Try Other Chocolate: Instead of mini chocolate chips, consider using white chocolate or dark chocolate chips for a different taste.
FAQs
Can I make the ricotta filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ricotta filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix it back together before use to ensure it’s smooth.
Are Cannoli Cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, you can enjoy these cookies gluten-free!
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
These Cannoli Cookies are not only delightful, but they also bring joy to every occasion. Enjoy making these delicious treats and sharing them with your loved ones!
Cannoli Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until well combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Place the coated dough balls on the lined baking sheet and flatten each ball slightly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly brown.
- Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes before transferring.
- Spread about a teaspoon of the ricotta filling on one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. Repeat with all.