Why Make This Recipe
There’s something truly delightful about cookies, and these Cannoli Cookies are no exception. They bring the classic Italian dessert cannoli into a bite-sized form that is both exciting and satisfying. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a holiday, or just a simple weeknight treat, Cannoli Cookies will surely impress your family and friends.
One of the best parts about these cookies is their delicious filling made from ricotta cheese. This ingredient adds a creamy texture and a rich flavor that elevates the cookie experience. Each bite is soft, slightly chewy, and bursting with the sweet taste of chocolate chips and cinnamon. The cinnamon-sugar coating offers an extra layer of sweetness, making them irresistible. Baking these cookies fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that will have everyone asking for a taste.
Additionally, Cannoli Cookies are easy to prepare and can fit a variety of occasions. Whether you are hosting a party or wanting to surprise your loved ones, these cookies can be a hit. You will enjoy the process of baking as much as you will enjoy the final product.
From the first mix to the last bite, Cannoli Cookies represent a fun fusion of classic flavors that everyone will adore. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an experienced baker; these cookies are straightforward enough for anyone to make. Plus, you can customize them to suit your preferences or leave them as is for the original flavor.
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
Making Cannoli Cookies involves a simple process that results in an incredible treat. You don’t need to be an expert baker; just follow the steps, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying these delicious cookies.
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 as it allows your cookies to bake evenly.
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and makes cleaning up much easier.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and the vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients well until everything is combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients from the medium bowl into the wet mixture in the large bowl. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Prepare the Ricotta Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated into a smooth filling.
Shape the Cookies: Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls using your hands. After rolling, roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
Place on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass, making sure they are all roughly the same size.
Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be golden, while the centers will remain soft.
Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps them firm up a bit.
Fill the Cookies: Once cooled, spread the ricotta filling on one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. Repeat this step until all cookies are filled.
Now your Cannoli Cookies are ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Cannoli Cookies
Serving Cannoli Cookies can be a joyful experience. You can present them on a lovely platter at parties, or place them in a decorative jar for a charming gift. These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk.
To turn them into a fun dessert option, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side. For an elegant touch, dust them lightly with extra powdered sugar before serving.
Don’t forget to tell your family and friends about the delicious flavors packed inside each cookie. They will appreciate the layers of sweetness from the chocolate chips, the creamy filling, and the cinnamon dusting.
How to Store Cannoli Cookies
Storing Cannoli Cookies is easy. After they cool, make sure the cookies are in a single layer in an airtight container. If you stack them, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
You can keep these cookies at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each filled cookie in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy a cookie, simply take it out and let it thaw at room temperature.
Tips to Make Cannoli Cookies
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure that your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps with the creaming process and ensures a consistent dough.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough and chewy instead of soft and tender.
Chill the Dough: If you find that your dough is too sticky to handle, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality ricotta cheese and vanilla extract for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients will elevate your cookie’s taste.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling! You can swap chocolate chips for dried fruits or add nuts. Just remember to keep the filling creamy.
Variation
If you want to try something different, consider making a lemon zest ricotta filling instead of the traditional chocolate chip filling. This adds a nice citrus flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon and sugar. Another option is to incorporate nuts, such as chopped pistachios or walnuts, into the filling for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. You can also bake the cookies and fill them later.
2. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough as well. Shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
3. What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If your ricotta filling seems too runny, try straining the ricotta cheese first to remove excess moisture. You can also add a little more powdered sugar to achieve a thicker consistency.
With this guide, you’re all set to make delicious Cannoli Cookies that will delight anyone lucky enough to taste them! Enjoy baking and indulging in these flavorful treats!
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 flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips to make the filling.
- Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls and coat in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place on the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, spread the ricotta filling on one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie.
- Repeat until all cookies are filled.