Delicious Cannoli Cookies You’ll Love to Bake

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Cannoli Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, bringing all the rich flavors of traditional cannoli into a convenient cookie form. These cookies are soft and buttery, coated in cinnamon sugar, and filled with a luscious ricotta chocolate chip filling. Perfect for sharing during holidays or enjoying on a cozy afternoon, these treats are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Cannoli Cookies

There are countless reasons to love these Cannoli Cookies. First, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a fantastic choice for beginner bakers or those pressed for time. The cookies are soft and chewy, with a delightful cinnamon-sugar coating that adds a touch of warmth and sweetness. Additionally, the rich filling made with ricotta cheese provides a creamy texture that perfectly complements the cookie’s flavor. These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile; you can experiment with different mix-ins or toppings. With the ability to serve them at parties or enjoy them as a midday snack, you’ll find yourself reaching for this easy Cannoli cookie recipe time and time again. Plus, they are vegetarian, aligning with many dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Cannoli Cookies

Gather these items:

1½ cups all-purpose flour (190g)
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (115g)
½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
1 large egg, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup granulated sugar (50g)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup ricotta cheese, well-drained (120g)
¼ cup powdered sugar (30g)
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup mini chocolate chips (85g)

How to Make Cannoli Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Don’t overmix.
Step 6: In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon for coating.
Step 7: Scoop 1 tablespoon portions of dough and roll into smooth balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat completely.
Step 8: Place dough balls on prepared sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with your palm or glass bottom. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Step 9: Cool on baking sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before filling.
Step 10: In a medium bowl, mix drained ricotta, powdered sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
Step 11: Spread 1 tablespoon of filling on the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie, pressing gently to sandwich. Repeat with remaining cookies.
Step 12: Refrigerate filled cookies for 30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Pro Tips for the Best Cannoli Cookies

Keep these in mind:

These cookies are perfect for holidays and parties.
Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the filling.
Use well-drained ricotta to prevent a soggy filling.

Best Ways to Serve Cannoli Cookies

These delightful treats can be served in various ways:

Pair them with a cup of espresso or cappuccino for a true Italian experience.
Serve them on a dessert platter with other Italian Cannoli treats for a themed party.
Try adding a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for a gourmet touch.

How to Store and Reheat Cannoli Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cannoli Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Cannoli Cookies?

The secret lies in using well-drained ricotta and not overmixing the dough. This keeps the cookies light and fluffy, while the filling remains creamy and delicious.

Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake them fresh before serving, or you can fill and refrigerate the cookies for a few hours before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cannoli Cookies?

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and follow the instructions closely to achieve the soft texture these cookies are known for. Don’t skip chilling the filled cookies, as this helps the filling set properly.

Variations of Cannoli Cookies You Can Try

There are several fun twists you can explore with these cookies:

Try adding chocolate chip Cannoli cookies by mixing chocolate chips into the dough.
Make mini Cannoli cookies by using a smaller scoop for the dough.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Consider making no-bake Cannoli cookies by layering the filling between store-bought cookies.