Cannoli cookies bring the delightful flavors of the classic Italian dessert into a convenient and irresistible treat. Combining the rich, creamy filling of traditional cannoli with the comforting texture of cookies, these bite-sized goodies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for gatherings, a sweet snack, or dessert, you’ll love how easy they are to make while still delivering that authentic taste you crave.
Why We Love This Cannoli Cookies
Cannoli cookies capture all the beloved flavors of classic cannoli but in a simpler, more accessible form. The cookie itself is soft and slightly crisp, providing the perfect base for a creamy filling enhanced with rich chocolate or citrus notes. Each bite features a delightful blend of textures: the cookie’s exterior contrasts with the luscious filling inside, making them hard to resist. These cookies are not only fun to make but also versatile, allowing for various flavor twists to cater to your taste buds. Whether you’re planning a festive occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies offer a wonderful way to celebrate the spirit of Italian baking while being easy to share with friends and family.
Ingredients for Cannoli Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or crushed pistachios (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the butter mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. If desired, fold in mini chocolate chips or crushed pistachios.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Make an indentation in the center of each cookie using your finger or the back of a small spoon. Fill the indentation with a generous dollop of the ricotta filling.
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
How to Serve Cannoli Cookies
Serving cannoli cookies can be as simple or as decorative as you desire. For a casual gathering, arrange the cookies on a platter in a single layer. You can enhance their presentation by dusting the tops with a little extra powdered sugar or drizzling some extra melted chocolate over them. If you’re hosting more formal occasions, you can serve them alongside a small bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful dessert plate. Pairing with a strong cup of coffee or a creamy cappuccino complements these sweet treats nicely. For a fun twist, place individual cookies in decorative cupcake liners for easy grabbing, making them perfect for parties and celebrations.
Expert Tips for Cannoli Cookies
To make the best cannoli cookies, pay attention to the quality of your ingredients. Fresh ricotta can greatly enhance the flavors, providing the right creaminess and richness to the filling. If you want to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before scooping and baking. When filling the cookies, don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors – consider incorporating a touch of citrus zest or a splash of almond extract to elevate the filling. Be mindful of oven temperatures since every oven can vary slightly; keep a close watch on your cookies as they bake. It’s also helpful to rotate your baking sheets halfway through to ensure even baking. Lastly, allow the cookies to cool completely before filling them to prevent the filling from melting or compromising the texture.
How to Store Cannoli Cookies
To store your cannoli cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a particularly humid area, consider refrigerating them to maintain their freshness. However, if you have filled cookies, it’s best to store them in the fridge since the ricotta filling can spoil if left out for too long. For longer storage, you can freeze unfilled cookies. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and fill with the ricotta mixture before serving.
Variations of Cannoli Cookies
There are numerous ways to customize cannoli cookies to suit your taste. One popular variation involves adding chocolate chips or nuts into the cookie dough for added texture. You can also infuse the filling with different flavors, such as cinnamon, lemon zest, or even a hint of espresso for a coffee-flavored twist. For those who enjoy fruit, consider folding in some finely chopped cherries or dried fruits for added sweetness. Experimenting with toppings is another fun way to add variety; try rolling the edges of the filled cookies in crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even sprinkles for a festive touch. Lastly, you can create mini cookie sandwiches by topping one cookie with filling and placing another cookie on top for a bite-sized treat that’s even more indulgent.
FAQ about Cannoli Cookies
Cannoli cookies are a delightful hybrid between traditional cannoli and cookies, leading to some common questions. For instance, many wonder if the cookies can be made ahead of time. Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough and chill it in the fridge or even freeze it for later use. Another common question is about variations in the filling. This is entirely customizable, and you can use flavored cream cheese or mascarpone for a different taste. Some also ask about serving suggestions; they pair well with coffee or tea and are perfect for parties and events. Lastly, people wonder about the texture of the cookies. They typically have a light and crumbly exterior, which perfectly contrasts with the smooth and creamy filling, resulting in an explosion of flavors. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite version of these delicious cannoli cookies!