Here’s a full, rich, social-media-ready Cannoli Cookies recipe, written like a complete food story with all the sections you asked for 🍪✨
🍪 Cannoli Cookies
All the flavors of a classic Italian cannoli—wrapped into a soft, tender cookie
✨ Introduction
Cannoli Cookies bring together everything we love about the iconic Italian dessert—sweet ricotta, citrus zest, chocolate chips, and a delicate hint of spice—without the need for frying or filling shells. These cookies are soft, cake-like, lightly fragrant with orange and cinnamon, and finished with optional glaze and pistachios for that authentic bakery touch. Perfect for holidays, cookie trays, or anytime you want something elegant yet comforting.
🧾 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, well-drained)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional but traditional)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
For the Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish
- Extra mini chocolate chips
- Extra chopped pistachios
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. - Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. - Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth and creamy. - Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. - Form the Dough
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
Fold in orange zest, mini chocolate chips, and pistachios. - Scoop & Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until bottoms are lightly golden and tops are set. - Cool
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. - Glaze (Optional)
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and garnish with chocolate chips and pistachios.
🔧 Methods & Pro Tips
- Drain Ricotta Well: Too much moisture can make cookies spread or become dense.
- Do Not Overbake: These cookies should stay pale and soft—golden bottoms are enough.
- Chill Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, chill dough 20–30 minutes.
- No Glaze Option: Dust with powdered sugar for a traditional Italian finish.
📜 History
Cannoli originated in Sicily, traditionally filled with sweetened ricotta and flavored with citrus, chocolate, and nuts. Over time, bakers began transforming these flavors into cakes, dips, and cookies—making cannoli more accessible without the labor of frying shells. Cannoli Cookies are a modern bakery favorite inspired by old-world flavors.
🧪 Flavor Formation (Why These Work)
- Ricotta: Adds moisture, tenderness, and authentic cannoli flavor
- Orange Zest: Brightens sweetness and balances richness
- Cinnamon & Almond Extract: Provide warmth and depth
- Chocolate Chips & Pistachios: Classic texture contrast and nutty sweetness
Together, they recreate cannoli flavor in every bite—soft, fragrant, and indulgent.
❤️ For the Lovers
These cookies are perfect for:
- Cannoli lovers who want an easier version
- Holiday cookie platters
- Italian dessert fans
- Coffee & tea time treats
- Soft cookie enthusiasts
- Anyone who loves bakery-style cookies at home
🥰 Conclusion
Cannoli Cookies are proof that classic desserts can evolve without losing their soul. Soft, elegant, and bursting with Italian flavor, these cookies bring tradition and comfort together in one irresistible bite. Whether glazed, dusted, or enjoyed plain, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite wherever they’re served.
✨ Make them once, and everyone will ask for them again.