Cannoli Cookies Recipe

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🍪 Cannoli Cookies Recipe

All the flavors of classic Italian cannoli packed into a soft, chewy cookie!

🌿 Introduction

Cannoli, the pride of Sicily, are world-famous for their crispy shells filled with sweet ricotta cream, often studded with chocolate chips or crushed pistachios. But while cannoli are heavenly, they can be tricky and time-consuming to make. That’s why bakers came up with a clever twist — Cannoli Cookies.

These cookies combine the creamy richness of ricotta, the sweetness of sugar, the warmth of vanilla, and the crunch of chocolate chips and pistachios. Imagine all the flavors of cannoli, but in a soft cookie that’s simple enough for a weekday bake yet elegant enough for holiday trays or family gatherings.

📝 Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for authentic flavor)
  • Zest of 1 orange (or lemon zest, traditional in cannoli)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios (plus extra for garnish)

For the Glaze (optional but recommended):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream for richness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Extra mini chocolate chips or crushed pistachios for topping

👩‍🍳 Instructions & Methods

  1. Cream the Base
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Add ricotta cheese and continue to beat until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients
    • Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and orange zest.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients
    • In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
    • Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  4. Fold in the Goodies
    • Gently stir in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.
  5. Chill the Dough
    • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (this helps the cookies hold their shape).
  6. Bake the Cookies
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough onto the sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
    • Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are set but centers are soft. Do not overbake!
  7. Glaze and Garnish (optional but extra delicious)
    • Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
    • Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies.
    • Sprinkle with extra mini chocolate chips or pistachios for a bakery-style finish.

📜 History

The original cannoli dates back to Sicily during the Arab rule (9th–11th century). It was said to be a symbol of fertility and abundance, enjoyed especially during Carnival season. Over time, the recipe spread across Italy and into Italian-American communities.

Cannoli Cookies are a modern adaptation, created to bring the same flavors into a more practical, shareable dessert. Unlike traditional cannoli shells that require frying, these cookies bake in minutes, making them an easy nod to a centuries-old delicacy.

🔨 Formation

  • Texture: Soft and cake-like with slightly crisp edges.
  • Flavor: Sweet ricotta base balanced by citrus zest, chocolate, and pistachio.
  • Appearance: Round golden cookies drizzled with glaze and dotted with toppings, resembling mini cannoli flavors in every bite.

❤️ Lovers of Cannoli Cookies

  • Home bakers who crave Italian-inspired flavors but want a simpler recipe.
  • Cookie lovers who enjoy unique twists on classics.
  • Holiday hosts looking for standout treats on dessert tables.
  • Family and kids, who love the soft bite and bursts of chocolate chips.

✅ Conclusion

Cannoli Cookies are the perfect fusion of tradition and convenience. They carry the rich, creamy taste of ricotta and the festive crunch of pistachios and chocolate chips, yet they’re quick and simple enough for everyday baking. Whether you serve them with coffee after dinner, include them on a holiday tray, or gift them to loved ones, these cookies will surely become a favorite.

A little Sicily in every bite — baked, not fried. 🍪✨

Would you like me to also make you a Christmas version of these Cannoli Cookies (with red + green toppings for a festive look)?

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