As I sifted through my pantry one lazy afternoon, the delightful idea of Cannoli Cookies materialized—an inspired twist on a classic favorite. This recipe captures the essence of homemade comfort, merging creamy ricotta with the light crunch of cookie dough, making it a fun addition to any dessert spread. What I love most about these Cannoli Cookies is not just how quickly they come together—ready in under 40 minutes—but also how they bridge the gap between indulgence and a healthy treat with lighter ingredients. Each bite is a playful reminder of traditional cannoli, enhanced with mini chocolate chips and a zesty hint of lemon that keeps the palate intrigued. Curious about how to create these delectable bites? Let's dive into baking!
Why are Cannoli Cookies a must-try?
Uniquely Delicious: These Cannoli Cookies blend the traditional Italian dessert with the convenience of a cookie, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Quick Prep Time: Ready in just 40 minutes, including prep and bake time, they fit seamlessly into your busy schedule.
Perfect Texture: Enjoy the chewy goodness of cookies with the creamy richness of ricotta, playfully accented by mini chocolate chips!
Zesty Twist: The lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness, elevating these cookies beyond the ordinary.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: With 24 servings, they’re ideal for gatherings or to indulge your sweet tooth guilt-free! Whether for a party or just a cozy evening at home, these cookies will become a new favorite.
Cannoli Cookies Ingredients
• Let’s gather everything you need to make these delightful treats!
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – a foundational ingredient for structure and texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cookies rise slightly for a light bite.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – adds a touch of leavening for a fluffy interior.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – ensures the cookies are rich and tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness and helps with the cookie’s chewy texture.
- 1 large egg – binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract – infuses a lovely nutty aroma reminiscent of traditional cannoli.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – complements the other flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – gives the cookies their unique creamy element, making them true Cannoli Cookies.
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips – adds delightful pops of sweetness in every bite.
- Zest of 1 lemon – brightens the flavor profile, adding a refreshing zesty note.
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to baking the most scrumptious Cannoli Cookies that everyone will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cannoli Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Space
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any drips and make cleanup easier. This setup creates a comfortable workspace where you can effortlessly drop your Cannoli Cookies onto the sheet once the dough is ready.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial as it ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and salt, which will help your cookies rise correctly and develop that lovely chewy texture. Set the bowl aside once mixed.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat this mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This incorporation of air will help your Cannoli Cookies achieve a delightful texture.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Extracts
Next, crack 1 large egg into the butter-sugar mixture, then add 1 teaspoon each of almond extract and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until these ingredients are fully incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. This combination enriches the flavor profile and creates the perfect base for your dough.
Step 5: Incorporate the Ricotta
With the mixer set to low speed, gently stir in 1 cup of ricotta cheese until it is fully integrated into the mixture. You’ll want to see a smooth, creamy blend—this is the star ingredient that gives your Cannoli Cookies their unique texture and flavor, reminiscent of traditional cannoli.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense cookies. You should see a cohesive dough beginning to form. This is an exciting moment as you’re just a few steps away from baking those delicious Cannoli Cookies!
Step 7: Add Chocolate Chips and Lemon Zest
Using a spatula, gently fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips and the zest of 1 lemon. These additions bring sweetness and a zesty pop that perfectly balance the creamy ricotta. Make sure these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough for a delightful surprise in every bite.
Step 8: Shape and Space the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows your Cannoli Cookies to spread slightly while baking without merging into one another, ensuring each cookie retains its unique shape.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look set but slightly soft. The aroma will fill your kitchen, providing a warm reminder of the treats to come.
Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This cooling time helps them firm up a bit. After this, gently transfer the Cannoli Cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, where they’ll become even more delightful as they set.
How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Cookies
Room Temperature: Store Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and moist, perfect for enjoying any time!
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed plastic bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm cookie, gently heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back their soft, delightful texture!
Make Ahead Options
These Cannoli Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of shaping the cookies, then cover the dough tightly and refrigerate it. For optimal quality, make sure to wrap it in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, just scoop the chilled dough directly onto your prepared baking sheet, and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before popping it into the oven. You'll have fresh, delicious Cannoli Cookies with minimal effort, making your busy days a bit sweeter!
Expert Tips for Cannoli Cookies
Chill Your Dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill for about 15 minutes can enhance texture, making for a lighter Cannoli Cookie.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your ricotta cheese is fresh for the best flavor and texture; it’s the star of these cookies!
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough Cannoli Cookies.
Baking Time Awareness: Watch closely in the last few minutes of baking. Timing can vary depending on your oven, and you want lightly golden edges.
Perfect Spacing: Keep cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for spreading without merging into one another.
What to Serve with Cannoli Cookies
Imagine the bliss of enjoying these sweet treats while sipping a warm beverage or pairing them with a delightful side dish.
- Rich Espresso: The boldness of espresso beautifully contrasts the sweet and creamy notes of the Cannoli Cookies, creating a delightful pairing.
- Fresh Berries: Serve a medley of ripe strawberries and blueberries to add a refreshing zing and balance the cookie’s sweetness. The natural tartness complements every bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream provides a creamy, luxurious texture that elevates your cookie experience. The cold contrast is simply irresistible!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance your Cannoli Cookies by drizzling melted chocolate on top. This adds an elegant touch and extra chocolatey goodness that would satisfy any dessert lover.
- Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream on the side will add a fluffiness that enhances the delightful textures of the cookies—perfect for dunking!
- Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea contributes a refreshing herbal note that will both cleanse your palate and harmonize beautifully with the cookies.
Cannoli Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore and tailor these Cannoli Cookies to your taste and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for delightful cookies that everyone can enjoy.
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Nut-Free: Omit almond extract and use additional vanilla extract to keep the flavor profile rich without any nuts.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as almond or coconut-based yogurt, for a creamy yet dairy-free treat.
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Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water), and use vegan butter to create a delightful version for plant-based eaters.
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Chocolate-Dipped: For an indulgent treat, melt semi-sweet or dark chocolate and dip half of each cookie for a delicious chocolate crunch.
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Citrus Burst: Enhance the flavor by adding 1 teaspoon of orange zest alongside the lemon zest for a tantalizing citrus medley.
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Spiced Up: Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic flavor addition that complements the sweetness.
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Chili Chocolate: For those who love a kick, mix in a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper with the flour for a spicy chocolate experience that awakens the senses.
These variations will not only satisfy various dietary needs but also spark your creativity in the kitchen! If you’re looking for more flavor inspiration, check out my Zesty Lemon Bars for a refreshing dessert. Also, don't forget to try my Classic Ricotta Cheesecake to go full circle with your cannoli theme!
Cannoli Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for my Cannoli Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh ricotta cheese that’s creamy and free from dark spots. If you’re using lemon, pick one that feels firm yet gives slightly when gently squeezed, indicating juiciness. Fresh ingredients make a world of difference in these delicious Cannoli Cookies!
How should I store my Cannoli Cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your Cannoli Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, placing them in the fridge can help, and they’ll last for up to a week. Just be sure they are stored tightly wrapped to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze my Cannoli Cookies, and what's the best method?
Very! To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once they’re firm, transfer them to a sealed plastic bag, where they can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature.
What should I do if my cookie dough feels too sticky or hard to work with?
Ah, the joys of cookie baking! If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. If it’s too dry or crumbly, you can add a splash of milk or a little extra ricotta cheese—just mix it in gently until it achieves the right consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cannoli Cookies, like allergies?
Certainly! These Cannoli Cookies contain gluten (from flour), dairy (from ricotta and butter), and eggs. If you’re making these for someone with food allergies, consider using gluten-free flour and dairy substitutes like almond or coconut yogurt. Always double-check labels to ensure the substitutes meet dietary needs and preferences!
Deliciously Unique Cannoli Cookies that Will Wow Everyone
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour a foundational ingredient for structure and texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder helps the cookies rise slightly for a light bite.
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda adds a touch of leavening for a fluffy interior.
- 0.25 teaspoon salt enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened ensures the cookies are rich and tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps with the cookie’s chewy texture.
- 1 large egg binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract infuses a lovely nutty aroma reminiscent of traditional cannoli.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract complements the other flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese gives the cookies their unique creamy element.
- 0.5 cups mini chocolate chips adds delightful pops of sweetness in every bite.
- 1 zest lemon brightens the flavor profile, adding a refreshing zesty note.
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cannoli Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gently stir in ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and lemon zest.
- Drop rounded portions of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden and centers are soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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