Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Cannoli Cookies! They’re like a little bite of Italy, bursting with flavor and a creamy filling that’ll make your taste buds dance. Seriously, if you love the classic cannoli but want something a bit easier to whip up, these cookies are your answer! I’ve always been a fan of traditional Italian desserts, but I wanted to put a fun twist on them, and that’s how these delightful Cannoli Cookies came to life in my kitchen.
Imagine soft, chocolatey cookies filled with a luscious ricotta mixture and mini chocolate chips, just waiting to be devoured. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these cookies have become a staple in my home. They’re perfect for sharing (or not, I won’t judge!) and they always bring a smile to everyone’s face—I mean, who can resist cookies that taste like cannoli? So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Ingredients List
Alright, let’s gather everything we need to make these incredible Cannoli Cookies! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – This is the base of our cookies, giving them that perfect structure.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – For that sweetness and a touch of creaminess in the dough.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – This adds a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the filling.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese – This is the star of our creamy filling. It gives the cookies that classic cannoli taste!
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips – Because who can resist a little extra chocolate in their cookies?
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For that warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – Just a hint to elevate those flavors to the next level!
Got everything? Great! Let’s get cooking and create some delicious Cannoli Cookies that’ll be the talk of the table!
How to Prepare Cannoli Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures our cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy. So, while you’re gathering your ingredients, go ahead and turn on that oven!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder. Whisk them together until they’re well blended—this helps to aerate the flour and mix in the cocoa evenly. You want that rich chocolate flavor throughout every cookie, so don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Cream the Butter
Now, grab another bowl and let’s cream that softened unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter until it’s smooth and creamy—about 2-3 minutes should do it. This is where the magic happens! A tip? Make sure your butter is at room temperature; it’ll mix in better and give you that light texture we’re aiming for.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, it’s time to introduce the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and almond extract to your creamed butter. Mix them in until everything is well combined and looks velvety smooth. The ricotta is what gives our cookies that signature cannoli taste, so make sure you mix well!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. I recommend doing this in about three batches, mixing gently after each addition until everything is just combined. You’re looking for a dough that’s soft but not sticky. It should hold together nicely!
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips
Time to fold in those mini chocolate chips! Using a spatula, gently incorporate them into the dough. Be careful not to overmix; we want those little chocolatey treasures to stay intact and spread out through the cookies.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Now, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. Bake those beauties in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are firm but the centers still look a little soft—trust me, they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Cooling and Filling
Once they’re out of the oven, let your Cannoli Cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is important—don’t rush it! They need to be cool before we fill them with that dreamy ricotta mixture. You want the cookies to hold their shape and not get mushy when they’re filled. Enjoy the anticipation because trust me, they’re worth the wait!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about how to make these Cannoli Cookies truly shine! Here are some of my best tips to ensure you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and ricotta cheese are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend together smoothly and creates that light texture we’re after.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, fluffy ones. We want melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness!
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft to scoop, pop it in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. Chilling will help the cookies hold their shape as they bake.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your cookies while they’re baking! Ovens can vary, so start checking around the 12-minute mark. Remember, they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with Fillings: While I love the classic ricotta filling, don’t hesitate to get creative! You can add a splash of orange zest or even some crushed pistachios for a little extra flair.
These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and make your Cannoli Cookies absolutely perfect. Trust me, the joy on your friends’ and family’s faces when they take that first bite will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional info for these delightful Cannoli Cookies! While they’re definitely a treat, it’s always nice to know what’s in your goodies. Here’s a typical breakdown per cookie:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind, these values are just estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But, hey, a little indulgence never hurt anyone, right? Enjoy these cookies with a smile, knowing they’re just a little bit sweet!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional for that classic cannoli flavor, you can try mascarpone or even cream cheese for a different twist. Just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit!
How do I know when my Cannoli Cookies are done baking?
Great question! You’ll want to look for firm edges while the centers still appear a little soft. They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem slightly underbaked when you take them out!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop and bake as directed. This is a fantastic way to save time for gatherings!
What’s the best way to store leftover Cannoli Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I add nuts or other fillings to my Cannoli Cookies?
Of course! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts, or even dried fruits for a unique flavor. Just remember to adjust the filling accordingly, so it complements the cookie!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you why these Cannoli Cookies are going to become your new favorite treat! They’re not just delicious; they’re also incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Here are a few reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in no time. Perfect for when you need a sweet fix in a hurry!
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of chocolate, ricotta, and extracts creates a flavor explosion that’s reminiscent of traditional cannoli but in cookie form!
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are great for gatherings, parties, or just to brighten someone’s day. Trust me, everyone will want to snag one (or two!).
- Customizable: Feel free to play around with the fillings or add-ins! Mix up the chocolate chips, toss in some nuts, or even add a sprinkle of your favorite spices for a unique twist.
- Impressive Presentation: With their beautiful soft texture and creamy filling, these cookies look as good as they taste. They’re sure to impress friends and family!
- Vegetarian-Friendly: These cookies cater to many dietary preferences, making them a great option for any gathering.
Honestly, who wouldn’t want to try a cookie that’s quick to make, bursting with flavor, and so versatile? I can’t wait for you to bake these Cannoli Cookies and see the smiles they bring!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve made these scrumptious Cannoli Cookies, let’s talk about how to keep them fresh and tasty! Proper storage is key to enjoying them at their best.
To store your leftover cookies, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer (because who wouldn’t want to enjoy these cookies again?), you can freeze them! Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
As for reheating, I recommend giving them a quick zap in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm them up nicely and bring back that gooey filling. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they might get a bit too soft! If you prefer them warm and slightly crisp, you can pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will revive that perfect texture and make them feel fresh out of the oven!
Follow these tips, and you’ll be savoring every last bite of your Cannoli Cookies, whether you’re enjoying them fresh or reheated. Happy baking!
Print
Cannoli Cookies: 7 Delightful Bites of Heaven
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Cannoli Cookies with a creamy filling.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder.
- In another bowl, cream the butter until smooth.
- Add ricotta cheese, vanilla, and almond extract to the butter and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are firm.
- Let cookies cool before filling.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for a few days.
- Feel free to add more chocolate chips if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Cannoli Cookies, Italian Cookies, Dessert Recipes