Are you looking for a sweet treat that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further! Cannoli cookies are the perfect blend of soft, chewy cookies with a delightful ricotta filling that bursts with taste. These cookies are inspired by the classic Italian dessert, cannoli, and transform its favorite flavors into a fun, handheld treat. They are great for parties, family gatherings, or just when you want something sweet at home. These cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!
Why Make This Recipe
Making cannoli cookies is not just fun; it’s also a fantastic way to share a taste of Italy without needing any special equipment or skills. With simple ingredients, you can create something special in your kitchen. These cookies combine the crunch and sweetness of chocolate chips with a creamy filling, making them a delightful dessert.
Another reason to make these cookies is the joy of baking. Cooking brings people together, and baking these treats can be a wonderful family activity. Kids often love to help, especially when it comes to rolling and filling the cookies. You’ll not only enjoy a delicious snack afterward but also create lasting memories in the kitchen.
Cannoli cookies are also versatile. You can change the filling or the cookie itself to suit your taste. You can make them for any occasion, from holidays to casual weekend treats. Plus, they are a great way to impress your friends and family with your baking skills!
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
Making cannoli cookies is straightforward and enjoyable. Just follow these easy steps, and you will have a batch of delicious cookies that everyone will love!
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). This step is important because it ensures your cookies bake evenly.
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent your cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step removes lumps and combines the dry ingredients well.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Take a large bowl and cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The creaming process helps to incorporate air into the butter, making your cookies light.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined. The egg adds moisture, while the vanilla gives a pleasant aroma and flavor.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookies tough.
Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips for the filling. This creamy mixture will be the wonderful surprise inside your cookies.
Shape the Cookies: Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls. Then roll these balls in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to give them a sweet, spicy coat.
Place on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled balls on the lined baking sheet. Gently flatten them slightly to help them bake evenly.
Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Sandwich the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, take one cookie and spread a spoonful of the ricotta filling on it. Top it with another cookie to make a delightful sandwich.
How to Serve Cannoli Cookies
Cannoli cookies are best served fresh, but they are also delicious a few days later. When serving, you can dust the assembled cookies with a little extra powdered sugar for an attractive touch. This little detail adds a nice visual appeal and extra sweetness.
For a special treat, consider pairing these cookies with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make great gifts when placed in a decorative box or tin. Everyone loves homemade treats!
How to Store Cannoli Cookies
To keep your cannoli cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can freeze them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want to enjoy them again, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.
Tips to Make Cannoli Cookies
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps in creating a smoother batter and better texture in the cookies.
Don’t Over Mix: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
Experiment with Fillings: While ricotta is traditional, feel free to try other fillings like mascarpone or even cream cheese, flavored with zest or extracts.
Taste as You Go: When making the filling, taste it! You can always adjust the sweetness by adding more powdered sugar or cinnamon to suit your preference.
Watch Your Oven: Baking times can vary based on individual ovens. Check your cookies a minute or two before the recommended time.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, consider adding different flavored chips, such as white chocolate or butterscotch. You could also try adding fruit to the filling, like mini diced strawberries or cherries, for added flavor and texture. Additionally, mixing some crushed nuts into the filling could add a delightful crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I make these cookies in advance?
Yes, you can make the cookie dough in advance and freeze it. Simply roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a bag once solid. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
2. What should I do if my ricotta cheese is watery?
If your ricotta cheese is too watery, place it in a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer over a bowl to drain the excess liquid before using it in the filling.
3. Can I bake these cookies without the chocolate chips?
Absolutely! If you prefer a simpler flavor, feel free to omit the chocolate chips from the filling. The cookies will still be delicious with just the ricotta filling.
With these easy steps and tips, you will create delicious cannoli cookies that everyone will love. Happy baking!
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 the softened butter with the granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients until combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips for the filling.
- Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls and then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the rolled balls on the lined baking sheet and flatten them slightly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Let cookies cool on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, spread a spoonful of the ricotta filling on one cookie and top it with another cookie to create a sandwich.