Name: Cannoli Cookies that Bring Italian Comfort to Your Home
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 49 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Ricotta Cheese (Well-drained); 1/2 cup Butter (Softened); 1 cup Sugar; 2 large Eggs (Room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be substituted); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Accurately measured); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg; 1 cup Mini Chocolate Chips; 1/2 cup Chopped Pistachios (Can substitute with almonds or walnuts); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Optional)

In the heart of Italy, where culinary traditions flourish, a sweet surprise awaits—cannoli cookies! Inspired by the beloved Sicilian pastry, these delightful treats bring together a soft, cake-like texture with the unmistakable flavors of creamy ricotta, warm spices, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips. What I love most about these cannoli cookies is how effortlessly they fit into both festive celebrations and casual weeknight desserts, making them a true staple in any home baker’s repertoire. Not only are they a wonderful way to satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also come together without the fuss of assembling traditional cannoli shells. Ready to warm up your kitchen with these Italian-inspired delights? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why Are These Cannoli Cookies Irresistible?

Decadent, Creamy Filling: Every bite is packed with a delightful ricotta center mingled with chocolate chips, capturing the essence of traditional cannoli.

Effortless Preparation: No deep-frying or complex assembly required! Just mix, bake, and enjoy a wholesome treat in less than an hour.

Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings, or a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies are sure to impress.

Family-Friendly Fun: Involving kids or friends in the baking process turns these cookies into a memorable experience full of laughter and love.

Delightful Aroma: Your kitchen will fill with the warm scents of cinnamon and nutmeg, wrapping you in cozy, nostalgic vibes that transport you to an Italian pastry shop.

Pair these cookies with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgence, and for more baking inspiration, don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes!

Cannoli Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Ricotta Cheese – Provides moisture and tenderness; ensure it’s well-drained to prevent spreading issues.
Butter – Adds richness; should be softened for a smooth creaming process.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve a light, fluffy texture.
Eggs – Binds ingredients for structure; use at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; almond extract can be a delightful substitute.
All-Purpose Flour – Main structural component; measure accurately to avoid dry cookies.
Baking Powder – Leavens the cookies, helping them rise beautifully.
Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates overall flavors.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg – Infuse warm spice notes reminiscent of traditional cannoli filling.

For the Mix-Ins

Mini Chocolate Chips – Sweet, melty morsels that amplify the dessert experience; ensure even distribution for the best bite.
Chopped Pistachios – Provide a fun crunch and flavor contrast; can substitute with almonds or walnuts if desired.
Orange Zest – Adds a fresh citrus aroma that brightens the flavors; optional for a simpler version.

These cannoli cookies bring together an irresistible flavor profile anything but bland, ensuring each bite delivers a taste of Italy right at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Ricotta
Begin by draining excess liquid from the ricotta cheese. Place it in a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl and let it sit for 30 minutes to ensure it’s not too wet. A well-drained ricotta will keep your cannoli cookies from spreading during baking, helping them maintain a lovely shape and texture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combine these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors and leavening agents, which will help your cannoli cookies rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together at medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. Aim for a light and fluffy texture—this step is crucial for creating a soft, tender cookie. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time into your butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully combined, providing structure and richness to your cannoli cookies. Aim for a smooth and homogeneous batter before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Add Ricotta and Flavorings
Gently mix in the drained ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and, if using, the orange zest. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The ricotta adds a creamy texture and flavor reminiscent of traditional cannoli, which is key for these delightful cookies.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Only mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tougher cookies. You want to see small pockets of flour without any dry streaks in the batter to ensure your cannoli cookies are soft.

Step 7: Fold in Mix-Ins
Using a spatula, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios into the dough. This step will add wonderful texture and flavor to your cannoli cookies. Be careful to not overwork the dough; you want the chocolate and nuts evenly dispersed without breaking them apart.

Step 8: Scoop Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing each mound about 2 inches apart. This gives the cannoli cookies room to spread while baking. Aim for uniform sizes so they will bake evenly and look appealing.

Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for a light golden color around the edges while the centers remain soft. They will continue to set slightly as they cool, ensuring moist and tender cookies.

Step 10: Cool and Finish
Once baked, let the cannoli cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For a final touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies and dust with powdered sugar to add a festive flair to these delicious treats.

What to Serve with Cannoli Cookies

Indulging in soft, cake-like cannoli cookies is a delightful experience, and pairing them just right can elevate your treat to new heights.

Rich Espresso: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed espresso complement the sweet richness of the cookies and enhance their Italian essence.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm spices in the cookies and adds a luscious texture.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies, making for an inviting dessert plate.
Traditional Italian Coffee: Brewed macchiato or cappuccino pairs beautifully, offering a delightful warmth that echoes the cozy vibes of the cookies.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling a little more melted chocolate over the top enhances the cookie’s flavor, adding an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a light, fluffy element that matches beautifully with the cannoli cookie’s filling.
Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds: These create a crunchy contrast, while the rich nutty flavor pairs well with the spices of the cookies for an extra treat.

For an unforgettable dessert experience, these pairings not only complement the cannoli cookies but also create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Make Ahead Options

These cannoli cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to Step 7, where you fold in the mix-ins, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking. This makes serving a breeze while keeping the cookies just as delicious. If you’d prefer, you can also freeze the rolled cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time for these delightful cannoli cookies.

Cannoli Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tailor these cannoli cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs, making them uniquely yours!

Dried Fruit: Swap out mini chocolate chips for dried fruit like raisins or cranberries to add a chewy texture and fruity flavor. This twist brings a delightful burst of sweetness that complements the ricotta beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. Just remember to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly, as almond flour absorbs moisture differently!
Nut Variation: Experiment with different nuts. Try walnuts for a more robust flavor or hazelnuts for a rich, toasty hint. Each nut adds its unique crunch and complements the cookie’s creamy center.
Spice it Up: Increase cinnamon and nutmeg for a bolder flavor profile, or introduce a hint of cardamom for an exotic twist. These spices can transport you straight to an Italian café!
Chocolate Lovers: For an extravagant treat, mix in dark or white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate. You’ll get an added depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the ricotta.
Caffeine Kick: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso or coffee granules for a mocha-inspired twist. This will enhance the overall flavor with an earthy note that complements the sweetness.
Citrus Burst: Replace orange zest with lemon zest for a brighter, fresher flavor. The citrus zing can uplift the overall taste and bring an exciting contrast to the creamy filling.
Savory Spin: Consider folding in some finely chopped herbs like basil or mint for a sweet-savory cookie that stands out among traditional options. This variation is sure to be a conversation starter!

These suggestions not only enhance the flavor but also allow you to create a delightful treat that fits your family’s preferences. For more tips on ingredient swaps, check out our guide on baking substitutions. Happy baking!

How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and softness.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cannoli cookies in an airtight container, where they can last up to 2 weeks while retaining their delightful texture and flavors.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen cannoli cookies, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for a cozy, delightful treat.

Expert Tips for Cannoli Cookies

Drain Ricotta Well: Make sure to drain your ricotta thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to spreading during baking.
Beat Until Fluffy: Cream your butter and sugar until light and fluffy; this step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie texture.
Mix Gently: Be careful not to over-mix once you combine wet and dry ingredients. This helps keep your cannoli cookies soft and cake-like.
Uniform Sizes: Use a cookie scoop for consistently sized dough portions, ensuring even baking and an appealing look.
Slightly Underdone: Remove the cookies from the oven while they still look slightly underdone—they’ll continue to cook on the tray, resulting in soft, delightful bites.

Cannoli Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of ricotta cheese should I use?
To achieve the best texture in your cannoli cookies, opt for whole-milk ricotta that is well-drained. Look for ricotta in vacuum-sealed containers or select brands that indicate a lower moisture content. Avoid watery ricotta, as excess liquid can lead to spreading issues while baking.

How should I store leftover cannoli cookies?
You can store your cannoli cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer longer storage, refrigerate them in a sealed container where they can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. This helps maintain their tender texture and keeps the flavors intact.

Can I freeze cannoli cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cannoli cookies spread excessively, this could be a result of using too wet ricotta or not chilling the dough long enough. To rectify this in the future, ensure that your ricotta is thoroughly drained and consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before scooping and baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better!

Can I use different mix-ins in my cannoli cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with alternative mix-ins. Instead of mini chocolate chips, you can use dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for a softer touch. Almonds or walnuts can replace pistachios, and you can even swap all-purpose flour for almond flour for a gluten-free version—just adjust the liquid ingredients as necessary.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
If you or your loved ones have nut allergies, it’s a good idea to omit the chopped pistachios (or any nuts) from your cannoli cookies. You can enhance flavor by adding a bit of additional chocolate chips or even incorporating some toasted coconut for a delightful twist. Always check ingredient labels to ensure your products are nut-free!