Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Cannoli Cookies! They’re like tiny bites of heaven inspired by the classic Italian cannoli. Imagine soft, fluffy cookies filled with sweet ricotta and dotted with chocolate chips—pure bliss! I first made these for a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could say “mangia!” Everyone was raving about them, and I couldn’t believe how easy they were to whip up. Trust me, if you love cannoli, you absolutely need to try baking these cookies. They’ll bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
Ingredients for Cannoli Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Cannoli Cookies. Make sure to gather everything before you start, so it’s smooth sailing all the way!
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 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 (the fresher, the better!)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Using softened butter is key for that light and fluffy texture, and don’t skimp on the mini chocolate chips—they add a delightful surprise in every bite. Ready? Let’s get baking!
How to Prepare Cannoli Cookies
Getting started on these Cannoli Cookies is super simple! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of deliciousness in no time. I promise, the smell of these cookies baking will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Preheat and Creaming
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy. While that’s warming up, grab a mixing bowl and cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. You want to beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is what gives the cookies that soft texture we all love. It’s like magic!
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This mixing helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour, ensuring your cookies rise beautifully and taste amazing. Just give it a quick stir, and you’re good to go!
Combining Mixtures
Next, it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. I like to do this in a few parts, mixing gently until just combined. Then, fold in the ricotta cheese and mini chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix; you want everything incorporated without losing that lovely fluffy texture. Trust me, the ricotta makes these cookies so unique and delicious!
Baking the Cookies
Once your dough is ready, drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden. Keep an eye on them because every oven is a little different! You’ll know they’re done when they look lightly golden and smell incredible. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Oh, the anticipation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cannoli Cookies are an absolute joy to make and devour! Here’s why I think you’re going to fall head over heels for them:
- Quick preparation: You can whip up a batch in just about 35 minutes—perfect for when you need a sweet fix!
- Delicious taste: The combination of sweet ricotta and chocolate chips gives these cookies an irresistible flavor that’s sure to impress.
- Easy to follow: With simple steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can create these delights without a hitch.
- Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy get-together with friends, these cookies are bound to be a hit!
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative with mix-ins or toppings, making each batch uniquely yours!
Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll understand the hype. They’re a delightful twist on a classic dessert that everyone will adore!
Tips for Success
To make your Cannoli Cookies truly shine, here are some of my top tips! First, always use fresh ricotta for the best flavor—don’t skimp on quality here! Also, when measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly. This helps avoid dense cookies. And remember, don’t overmix the dough once you add the ricotta and chocolate chips; gentle folding is key to keeping them light and fluffy!
Variations of Cannoli Cookies
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up these Cannoli Cookies! Try using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, or even white chocolate for a sweet twist. You can also fold in some chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts for added crunch. And don’t forget, a sprinkle of orange zest can bring a fresh, zesty kick that beautifully complements the ricotta!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Cannoli Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature. No need to reheat—these cookies are delightful at room temperature, just like a classic cannoli!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for these delicious Cannoli Cookies. Keep in mind, these values can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
So, there you have it! These Cannoli Cookies make for a delightful treat without going overboard. Enjoy them in moderation, and savor every sweet, creamy bite!
FAQ About Cannoli Cookies
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about these delightful Cannoli Cookies:
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese? Absolutely! If you can’t find ricotta, mascarpone works beautifully too. Just remember, it’ll be a tad richer.
How should I store leftover cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to save some for later, freeze them!
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones? Yes, just chop them a bit for easier mixing and to keep the cookie texture just right!
Print
Cannoli Cookies: 5 Sweet Bites of Heaven You Must Try
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious cannoli-inspired cookies filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips.
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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla; mix well.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in ricotta and chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Allow to cool and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- Use fresh ricotta for best flavor.
- Can be made with different chocolate types.
- 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: 30mg
Keywords: Cannoli Cookies, Italian Cookies, Dessert Recipes