Delicious cannoli cookies with cream filling and chocolate chips on a plate.

Cannoli Cookies: 5 Sweet Bites of Heaven You Must Try

Cannoli Cookies: 5 Sweet Bites of Heaven You Must Try

In a world where sweet treats take center stage, cannoli cookies hold a special charm. These delightful little bites promise to transport you to the bustling streets of Italy with each decadent morsel. Soft and rich with a luscious filling, each cookie encapsulates everything we love about the beloved Italian dessert. If you’re searching for a new favorite dessert to impress your family or friends, these cookies are a must-try, blending tradition and innovation into one heavenly creation.

Why Make This Recipe

  • Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors that transports you to a classic Italian pastry.
  • Perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply to indulge yourself.
  • Easy to make, allowing both novice bakers and seasoned pros to shine in the kitchen.

The unique combination of ingredients, including ricotta cheese and chocolate chips, elevates ordinary cookies into delightful bites of heaven. It’s time to roll up your sleeves and experience the bliss of making cannoli cookies right at home.

Simple Way to Prepare Cannoli Cookies

Making cannoli cookies is a straightforward process that brings the joy of baking to your kitchen. From creaming the butter and sugar to folding in those lovely chocolate chips, each step is filled with anticipation for what’s to come. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A well-preheated oven ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden color.

  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in soft cookies.

  3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Once your butter and sugar are perfectly fluffy, incorporate 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined to create a rich, cohesive batter.

  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed and prevents any clumping.

  5. Merge Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. It’s crucial to do this step slowly to avoid flour clouds and ensure a smooth dough.

  6. Fold in Ricotta and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in 1 cup of ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips. The ricotta adds a creamy texture, while the chocolate chips provide a delightful surprise in every bite.

  7. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

  8. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The center will remain slightly soft, giving you that irresistible texture.

  9. Cool and Dust: Once out of the oven, allow your cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. After they have cooled, dust them with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar to add a final touch of sweetness and elegance.

Once the cookies have cooled and you dusted them with powdered sugar, you are ready to fall in love with those gorgeous cannoli cookies!

Cannoli Cookies: 5 Sweet Bites of Heaven You Must Try

Keeping Cannoli Cookies Fresh

Proper storage is key to keeping your cannoli cookies as delectable as when they first came out of the oven. Here’s how to keep your precious cookies fresh and tasty:

  1. Room Temperature: Store cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-4 days. This keeps them soft and prevents them from drying out.

  2. Refrigeration: If it’s particularly warm or you live in a humid climate, you might store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste experience.

  3. Freezing: To enjoy your cannoli cookies later, freeze them for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw completely at room temperature.

Best Ways to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Presentation can enhance the experience of enjoying these sweet bites. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie game:

  • Coffee Pairing: Serve your cannoli cookies alongside a steaming cup of espresso or cappuccino. The bold flavors of coffee complement the sweet ricotta filling beautifully.

  • Dessert Platter: Arrange your cookies on a festive dessert platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and nearby fresh fruit. This not only makes for an eye-catching display but also adds a touch of freshness.

  • Chocolate Drizzle: For those who crave a bit more chocolatey goodness, drizzle melted chocolate over your cookies. Let it set before serving, and you’ll have a gourmet cookie experience.

  • Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create delightful ice cream sandwiches by placing your favorite ice cream between two cookies. A sprinkle of crushed nuts or mini chocolate chips on the edges makes for a fun twist.

Tips to Make Cannoli Cookies

Here are a few tips to ensure your cannoli cookies turn out perfect every time:

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use eggs and butter at room temperature for the best mixing results and texture.

  • Don’t Overmix: When you combine your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

  • Use Fresh Ricotta: Fresh ricotta cheese enhances the flavor and texture of your cookies, providing that authentic cannoli experience.

  • Experiment with Mix-Ins: Consider adding finely chopped nuts, such as pistachios, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’d like to give your cannoli cookies a personal twist or need to cater to dietary preferences, consider the following options:

  • Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and try a vegan ricotta made from nuts or tofu to create a delicious dairy-free version of these cookies.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Yes, you can make the cookie dough ahead of time. Refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking, or freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: How do I keep them from spreading too much?

A: To prevent spreading, be sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape.

Q: Can I use another type of chocolate chip?

A: Absolutely! Dark chocolate or white chocolate chips would also work beautifully. Just pick the one you prefer!

Q: What should I do if the cookies are too dry?

  • If your cookies turn out dry, they may have been overbaked. Keep an eye on them the last few minutes.
  • Add a teaspoon of milk or an extra dollop of ricotta to the dough for a bit more moisture next time.

Nutritional Information

If you’re curious about the nutritional aspect of these delightful bites, here’s a rough breakdown per cookie, assuming a batch of 24 cookies:

  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 2g

Keep in mind that variations in ingredients might affect these values.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cannoli cookies, it’s easy to encounter a few pitfalls. Here’s a quick guide to ensure you avoid any mishaps:

  • Not Preheating the Oven: A preheated oven helps your cookies rise and bake evenly, so don’t skip this critical step.

  • Measuring Flour Incorrectly: Scoop and level your flour; don’t scoop directly from the bag, as this can lead to too much flour being added.

  • Ignoring Temperatures: Both butter and eggs should be at room temperature for best results, making sure everything blends well.

  • Underestimating Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to avoid crumbling when you transfer them.

Conclusion

Cannoli cookies are more than just a tasty treat; they’re a delightful journey into the world of Italian cuisine. The unique blend of flavors, textures, and the joy of baking makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging after a long day, these cookies will fill your home with warmth and sweetness.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create five sweet bites of heaven that will leave everyone craving more. After all, who wouldn’t want a cookie that embodies the spirit of a classic Italian dessert?

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cannoli Cookies


  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delightful cannoli cookies filled with rich ricotta and chocolate chips, combining tradition and innovation into heavenly bites.


Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet ingredients.
  6. Fold in ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.
  7. Scoop dough onto a baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden brown.
  9. Cool and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Other recipes