Indulge in the delightful world of Cannoli Cookies, where crispy meets creamy for a truly special treat. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers. With their sweet ricotta filling nestled in a buttery shell, every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture that will impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ricotta, vanilla, and lemon zest creates a rich and flavorful filling that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Treat: Serve these cookies at parties, as snacks, or during festive occasions for a delightful twist on traditional desserts.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings to match your personal taste or the season.
• Perfectly Shareable: With eight servings, these cookies are ideal for sharing with family and friends!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start whipping up these delicious Cannoli Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything prepared will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture when blending wet ingredients together.
• Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness for the dough, leading to uniform baking.
• Baking sheets: Provides a stable surface for cookies to bake evenly.

this recipe

Ingredients

Indulge in the delightful fusion of crispy and creamy with Cannoli Cookies. Each bite offers a sweet ricotta filling surrounded by a delicate, buttery shell—perfect for a decadent treat.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup (240 ml) of all-purpose flour
– ½ cup (100 g) of granulated sugar
– ½ cup (120 g) of ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp of vanilla extract
– 1 tsp of lemon zest
– ½ cup (75 g) of mini chocolate chips
– ½ cup (75 g) of chopped pistachios
– Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
* Whisk together flour and sugar until well blended.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
* Mix together ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.

Step 5: Rest the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This helps improve texture during baking.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Dust your work surface with flour. Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.

Step 8: Cut Dough Shapes

Cut the dough into rectangles or squares, approximately 2×3 inches each.

Step 9: Make Filling Mixture

In a small bowl:
Mix together ricotta, mini chocolate chips, and chopped pistachios.

Step 10: Fill Cookies

Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each rectangle. Fold over and seal by pressing down the edges gently.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes until golden brown.

Step 12: Cool Down

Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Cannoli Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your Cannoli Cookies alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• For an extra indulgent experience, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top of your Cannoli Cookies. This adds a rich flavor and a beautiful presentation.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Cannoli Cookies on a dessert platter with other treats such as biscotti or Italian pastries. This makes for an impressive display at parties or gatherings.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warmth of the drinks balances the cool creaminess of the ricotta filling.

How to Perfect Cannoli Cookies

Making perfect Cannoli Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out just right.

• Use Fresh Ricotta: Fresh ricotta has a creamier texture and better flavor than store-bought varieties. Look for high-quality brands or make your own if possible.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 30 minutes helps it firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes without sticking.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be golden brown but not overly dark; this typically takes between 15-18 minutes.

• Experiment with Fillings: While classic fillings are great, don’t hesitate to mix things up! Consider adding flavored extracts or dried fruits for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Cannoli Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Cannoli Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the sweet, crispy cookies.
2. Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad made from oranges and grapefruit provides a zesty balance that cuts through the richness.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station for dipping—this interactive element is fun and delicious!
4. Pistachio Crumble: A crunchy pistachio crumble sprinkled over each cookie enhances flavor and adds texture.
5. Fruit Sorbet: Light and fruity sorbet pairs well with the rich filling, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
6. Espresso Shots: Serve small cups of espresso alongside your cookies for an authentic Italian touch that complements their sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cannoli Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect treat.

• Incorrect dough thickness: Rolling the dough too thin can cause it to overcook or burn. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch.
• Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the dough to rest may lead to tough cookies. Letting it rest for 30 minutes helps relax the gluten.
• Overstuffing the filling: Adding too much filling can make sealing difficult. Use just enough to cover the center without overflowing.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking cookies in a cold oven can affect texture and cooking time. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Ignoring cooling time: Transferring cookies too soon from the baking sheet can result in breakage. Allow them to cool slightly before moving them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cannoli Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cannoli Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds, but avoid overheating as this can make them chewy.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, turning them gently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cannoli Cookies that might help you further.

Can I use other cheese instead of ricotta?

You can substitute mascarpone or cream cheese for a different flavor profile, but ricotta provides that classic taste.

How do I make gluten-free Cannoli Cookies?

Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has a binding agent like xanthan gum.

What other fillings can I use in Cannoli Cookies?

Feel free to experiment with different fillings like cream cheese frosting or fruit preserves for a unique twist.

Can I decorate my Cannoli Cookies?

Absolutely! You can drizzle melted chocolate or add colorful sprinkles on top for extra flair.

Final Thoughts

Cannoli Cookies offer an irresistible combination of crispy and creamy textures, making them ideal for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and toppings according to your taste. Give this delicious recipe a try—your friends and family will love them!

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Cannoli Cookies

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 48 minutes
• Yield: About 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of Cannoli Cookies, a perfect fusion of crispy and creamy textures. These charming cookies feature a rich ricotta filling infused with vanilla and lemon zest, all enveloped in a buttery shell. Ideal for any occasion, from festive gatherings to casual get-togethers, each bite offers a celebration of flavor that will impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, this easy recipe allows for creative variations, making them a versatile treat that can be customized to match your taste preferences.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips
• ½ cup chopped pistachios
• Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In another bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
4. Combine dry and wet mixtures gradually to form a soft dough.
5. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick and cut into rectangles.
7. Prepare the filling by mixing ricotta with chocolate chips and pistachios.
8. Place filling in the center of each rectangle, fold over, and seal edges.
9. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
10. Cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Use fresh ricotta for maximum creaminess. Chill the dough to make rolling easier. Feel free to customize fillings with flavored extracts or dried fruits.