As a passionate home cook, I find joy in creating treats that bring a taste of Italy right into my kitchen. Cannoli Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the rich, creamy filling of traditional cannoli with the comforting texture of a cookie. The moment you bite into these Cannoli Cookies, you’re greeted with the sweet aroma of vanilla and cinnamon, followed by the delightful surprise of mini chocolate chips. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
What is Cannoli Cookies?
Cannoli Cookies are a delightful fusion of the beloved Italian pastry, cannoli, and the comforting texture of cookies. Originating from Sicily, traditional cannoli are tube-shaped shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese and often adorned with chocolate chips or candied fruit. In this cookie version, we capture the essence of that creamy filling, making it accessible and easy to enjoy. These cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a celebration of Italian culinary heritage, bringing a touch of Italy to your home kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Cannoli Cookies
- Convenient: Quick to prepare and bake, perfect for busy schedules.
- Delicious Flavor: A delightful blend of sweet ricotta, chocolate, and warm spices.
- Healthier Option: Lower in sugar compared to traditional desserts, making them a guilt-free treat.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these cookies, making them a hit at any gathering.
Who It’s For
Cannoli Cookies are ideal for busy families looking for a quick dessert, health-conscious cooks wanting a lighter treat, and food lovers eager to explore globally inspired recipes. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies fit the bill perfectly.
When to Cook It
These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions, including weeknight dinners, holiday celebrations, or simply as a sweet snack during family movie nights. They also make a wonderful addition to potlucks or bake sales, sure to impress everyone with their unique flavor and charm.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie, providing structure. Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies. You can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture. Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: The star filling that gives cannoli its signature creaminess. Whole milk ricotta enhances flavor.
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips: Adds a delightful chocolatey surprise. Dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile. Use pure vanilla for the best taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth. Nutmeg can be a lovely alternative.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness. Sea salt can elevate the flavor even more.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: A finishing touch for sweetness and presentation.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be pale and airy.
- Add the ricotta: Mix in the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. The batter will be creamy and fragrant.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour, salt, and mini chocolate chips, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Shape the cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They will spread a little while baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Cool and dust: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
- Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for baking.
- Monk fruit: Another zero-calorie option that adds sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels.
- Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that behaves like sugar in baking, making it a great alternative.
- Note: Avoid using honey or maple syrup as substitutes, as they can spike blood sugar levels significantly.
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Wire rack for cooling
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Use Quality Ingredients: Renowned chef Lidia Bastianich emphasizes the importance of using high-quality ricotta for the best flavor. Opt for whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture.
- Chill the Dough: Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
- Experiment with Flavors: Celebrity chef Mario Batali encourages creativity. Try adding a splash of orange zest or almond extract to the dough for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
- Don’t Overbake: Chef Ina Garten advises keeping a close eye on the cookies. Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers are still soft for the perfect chewy texture.
- Presentation Matters: Renowned pastry chef Dominique Ansel suggests dusting the cookies with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful finish that enhances their appeal.
- Room Temperature: Store Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they are well-sealed to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds until just warm.
- Dusting: If you’ve stored them with powdered sugar, re-dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a fresh look.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
- Using Low-Quality Ricotta: Cheap ricotta can result in a bland filling. Always opt for high-quality, whole milk ricotta for the best flavor.
- Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause the cookies to spread too much. A short chill helps maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
- Overbaking: Leaving cookies in the oven too long can make them dry. Remove them when the edges are golden but the centers are still soft for a chewy bite.
- Skipping the Dusting: Not dusting with powdered sugar can make the cookies look less appealing. A light dusting adds a beautiful finish and extra sweetness.
Q: Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Are Cannoli Cookies suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, Cannoli Cookies are vegetarian-friendly as they do not contain any meat or fish products.
Q: Can I use different fillings in Cannoli Cookies?
It depends on your preference! You can experiment with various fillings like mascarpone or flavored cream cheese.
Q: Do Cannoli Cookies need to be refrigerated?
No, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: Are Cannoli Cookies gluten-free?
No, but you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
Cannoli Cookies are a delightful way to bring a taste of Italy into your home, combining the rich flavors of traditional cannoli with the comforting texture of cookies. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these treats as much as I do! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below to share your experience or any variations you made. Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow food lovers who would appreciate a sweet twist on a classic dessert!
Print
Cannoli Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on traditional cannoli, these Cannoli Cookies are filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, salt, and mini chocolate chips, stirring until a dough forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
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Notes
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk ricotta.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the filling.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cannoli Cookies, Italian Cookies, Dessert Recipes