Introduction to Cannoli Cookies
Welcome to the sweet world of Cannoli Cookies! If you’ve ever craved the delightful flavors of traditional Italian cannoli but found yourself pressed for time, you’re in for a treat. These Cannoli Cookies are not only easy to whip up but also bursting with the irresistible combination of creamy ricotta and chocolate chips. Perfect for busy moms and professionals alike, this recipe offers a quick avenue to bring joy into your kitchen. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds – they truly are that good!
Why You’ll Love This Cannoli Cookies
If you’re like me, you cherish recipes that are both delightful and simple to prepare. These Cannoli Cookies embody that magic! They capture the classic flavors of Italian cannoli in a portable, bite-sized treat.
With just a few steps, you can create a sweet sensation that caters to all ages.
Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual snack, these cookies are sure to impress everyone with their enchanting taste!
Ingredients for Cannoli Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients for your Cannoli Cookies is the first step to success! Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookies, providing structure.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent ensures your cookies rise perfectly.
- Salt: Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a delightful buttery flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough, creating a tender cookie.
- Egg: Acts as a binder and adds moisture.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth of flavor.
- Ricotta cheese: Gives that classic cannoli taste and creaminess.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling while keeping it smooth.
- Cinnamon: Adds a warm spice that complements the dish beautifully.
- Mini chocolate chips: These little bursts of chocolate are a heavenly addition.
- Cinnamon-sugar mixture: For rolling dough, adding a sweet, spiced finish.
Exact quantities can be found at the bottom of the recipe for your convenience!
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
Let’s get started on these scrumptious Cannoli Cookies! First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A reliable oven is key to a perfect bake. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for ensuring even distribution of the leavening agent, which will help your cookies rise beautifully. Set this bowl aside for the later mixing.
Step 3: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Now, it’s time to bring some air and sweetness into the mix! In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The texture should be like a cloud—super airy!
Step 4: Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
Once your butter and sugar are ready, it’s time to add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until incorporated. Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. This is where you need to resist the urge to overmix—less is more!
Step 5: Making the Ricotta Filling
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. The filling is the pièce de résistance of your Cannoli Cookies. It should be creamy and well-blended, with little pockets of chocolate surprise!
Step 6: Forming the Cookies
Now comes the fun part! Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Each ball will soon turn into a delicious cookie. Next, roll each ball in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon, giving your cookies a sweet spice finish. This extra flavor will make them irresistible!
Step 7: Baking the Cookies
Place your rolled balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly using the bottom of a drinking glass. This will help them bake evenly. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 8: Filling the Cookies
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This gives them a chance to set. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they’re cool, spread a teaspoon of the ricotta filling on the flat side of one cookie, then top it with another to create a delightful cookie sandwich.
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your Cannoli Cookies are a resounding success! Here are some handy tips to ensure perfect results:
- Always use softened butter to help achieve that light, fluffy texture.
- Don’t overmix after adding dry ingredients; this keeps your cookies tender.
- Cool your cookies completely before sandwiching them, preventing any melting of the filling.
- Experiment with the filling by adding a dash of orange zest for extra flavor.
Equipment Needed
You won’t need any fancy gadgets to make these Cannoli Cookies. Here’s a quick list of essential tools:
- Baking sheet: A standard rimmed cookie sheet works perfectly.
- Parchment paper: You can also use a silicone baking mat if you have one.
- Mixing bowls: A medium and a large bowl will do.
- Whisk and spatula: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: No need for precise scales here, just the basics!
Variations on Cannoli Cookies
These delightful Cannoli Cookies are versatile, making it easy to customize them for various tastes and dietary needs! For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Feeling adventurous? Toss in chopped pistachios or dried cherries for extra flavor.
You could even swap out the mini chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate to create your own signature twist!
Serving Suggestions
These Cannoli Cookies shine on their own, but pairing them elevates the experience! Enjoy them with a steaming cup of coffee or a sweet cup of tea.
For special occasions, serve them alongside a dessert wine or a rich espresso.
Don’t forget to arrange them on a pretty platter for gatherings, making them a stunning centerpiece!
FAQs about Cannoli Cookies
Got questions about these delicious Cannoli Cookies? No worries—let’s tackle a few common ones!
How should I store the cookies?
Keep your Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing them before filling.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You’ll still enjoy all the delightful flavors!
How do I achieve the perfect filling consistency?
Aim for a creamy texture in your ricotta filling. If it seems too thick, add a little milk or cream to loosen it up.
This ensures a smooth, delicious layer when you sandwich the cookies.
Can I use other ingredients in the filling?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like crushed nuts or fruit zest for a unique twist on these Italian-inspired treats.
Final Thoughts
Baking these Cannoli Cookies isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating cherished moments with family and friends.
The joy that comes from sharing homemade treats, especially ones that are so easy to prepare, is truly special.
These cookies allow busy moms and professionals to whip up something delightful without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy afternoon, or just a treat for yourself, these Cannoli Cookies bring a sprinkle of happiness into everyday life.
So, gather your loved ones and enjoy the scrumptious rewards of your baking adventure!
PrintCannoli Cookies: Discover This Irresistible Recipe!
Delicious Cannoli Cookies inspired by the classic Italian dessert, featuring a sweet ricotta filling and chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until well combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, spread a teaspoon of the ricotta filling on the flat side of one cookie and sandwich with another cookie.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened for easier creaming.
- For a richer flavor, consider using mascarpone cheese instead of ricotta.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg