If you are on the hunt for a delightful treat that captures the essence of Italian flavors in a soft, cake-like bite, this Cannoli Cookies Recipe is sure to win your heart. These cookies bring together the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, the sweet burst of mini chocolate chips, and a hint of fresh orange zest, all dusted with a delicate sprinkle of powdered sugar. Perfectly tender and irresistibly flavorful, these cookies offer a wonderful twist on the classic cannoli experience, making them a beloved favorite for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any time you crave a comforting dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cannoli Cookies Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy ricotta to the fragrant orange zest, every component works beautifully together.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides richness and tenderness to the cookie dough.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Adds sweetness and helps create a light texture.
- Brown sugar (¾ cup, packed): Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Large eggs (2): Bind all the ingredients and add body to the dough.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- Orange zest (1 teaspoon): Brings a bright, fresh citrus kick that perfectly complements the ricotta.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base that gives structure to the cookies.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft texture.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and elevates all flavors.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup, well-drained): Adds moistness and a creamy texture unique to this recipe.
- Mini semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Provide delicious bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Chopped pistachios (½ cup, optional): Add crunch and a lovely nutty contrast.
- Powdered sugar: For a delicate dusting finish that adds charm and sweetness.
How to Make Cannoli Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the sheet effortlessly, preserving their delicate texture.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is key to incorporating air, giving the cookies their tender crumb and delightful softness.
Step 3: Mix in Eggs, Vanilla, and Orange Zest
Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract and fragrant orange zest. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures a smooth, flavorful base that shines through in every bite.
Step 4: Incorporate the Ricotta Cheese
Stir in the well-drained ricotta cheese until you achieve a silky-smooth consistency. This ingredient is what makes these cookies stand out—moist, creamy, and utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Add to Wet Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mix into the wet ricotta mixture, being careful not to overmix. This creates just the right dough consistency, soft yet sturdy.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Pistachios
Gently fold in the mini semisweet chocolate chips and chopped pistachios, if you’re using them. These add delightful pops of chocolate and nutty crunch that elevate the cookies to a new level of deliciousness.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto the prepared sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain tender. Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 8: Final Touch with Powdered Sugar
Once the cookies have completely cooled, finish them off with a light dusting of powdered sugar. This adds a beautiful, classic touch that fits perfectly with the elegant Italian inspiration behind this Cannoli Cookies Recipe.
How to Serve Cannoli Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
One of the joys of serving these cookies is adding the perfect garnish. A sprinkle of powdered sugar is classic, but you could also drizzle melted chocolate or scatter extra chopped pistachios on top for color and crunch. Even a touch of candied orange peel can bring extra zing.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of espresso, cappuccino, or a sweet dessert wine like Vin Santo. If you want to create a full Italian-inspired dessert spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a scoop of gelato for a truly memorable treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, arrange your cannoli cookies on a tiered stand dusted with powdered sugar or place them inside decorative cookie tins for gifting. You can also serve them with a small bowl of ricotta mixed with honey for a fun interactive dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover cannoli cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to 4 days, making them perfect for preparing in advance for parties or casual treats.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked cookies by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This locks in freshness and flavor for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Reheat your cannoli cookies briefly in a warm oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to revive their soft texture and gently melt the chocolate chips. Avoid microwaving, which can make them overly soft or soggy.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese in this Cannoli Cookies Recipe?
Yes, but be aware that low-fat ricotta has a higher moisture content which could make the cookies too soft or affect the texture. For best results, use well-drained full-fat ricotta as recommended.
Can I replace the orange zest with lemon zest?
Absolutely! Lemon zest will lend a slightly different but equally delightful citrus note that pairs perfectly with the ricotta and chocolate.
Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for one-to-one replacement. Be sure to check that your baking soda doesn’t contain gluten. The texture might vary slightly but the taste will remain fantastic.
What if I don’t have pistachios? Can I omit them?
Yes, pistachios are optional and the cookies will still be delicious without them. You can also try chopped almonds or walnuts for a different nutty flavor and crunch.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay soft and fresh for up to 4 days. Beyond that, they might start to dry out without refrigeration or freezing.
Final Thoughts
This Cannoli Cookies Recipe is a heartfelt tribute to all the wonderful flavors of Italy in a simple, approachable cookie form. Whether you’re baking for family or eager to impress guests with a unique dessert, these cookies deliver consistently tender, flavorful bites that everyone will adore. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a treasured favorite in your baking repertoire — so go ahead and give this recipe a whirl; delightful Italian-dessert magic is just a batch away!
Print
Cannoli Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cannoli Cookies are soft, cake-like Italian-American dessert treats inspired by traditional cannoli pastries. Made with creamy ricotta cheese, mini semisweet chocolate chips, and a hint of orange zest, these cookies are tender and flavorful, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a delightful touch perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (well-drained)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Mix-ins and Topping
- 1 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, which ensures a tender cookie texture.
- Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Orange Zest: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest for flavor and aroma.
- Mix in Ricotta Cheese: Stir the well-drained ricotta cheese into the wet ingredients until the batter is smooth and creamy, adding moisture and richness to the cookies.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ricotta mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough and ensure a soft texture.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips and Pistachios: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios if using, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 to 14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, signaling they are perfectly baked yet tender inside.
- Cool and Finish: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar before serving for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the ricotta cheese is well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the cookie texture.
- These cookies have a soft, cake-like texture reminiscent of traditional Italian pastries.
- Chocolate chips can be replaced with candied orange peel for a different flavor profile.
- For an elegant touch, dip the bottoms of the cookies in melted chocolate once cooled.
