Cannoli Cookies are everything you love about the classic Sicilian treat, transformed into irresistibly soft, cake-like morsels bursting with creamy ricotta, citrus zest, and chocolate chips. Each bite delivers the playful spirit of a cannoli, minus the fuss of frying or filling tubes — just pure, joyful Italian-American flavor. Whether you’re throwing a festive gathering or want to bring a touch of amore to your afternoon coffee, these cookies are sure to wow your taste buds and bring smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering all your Cannoli Cookies ingredients is almost as delightful as baking them! Each element plays an essential role — from the dreamy richness of ricotta to the playful pops of mini chocolate chips, they combine to capture that iconic cannoli taste in every bite.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): Gives the cookies their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the dough just enough while allowing all the classic cannoli flavors to shine.
- Large Eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and help achieve that cake-like crumb.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and an irresistible aromatic base to the cookies.
- Orange Zest (1 teaspoon): Adds a pop of bright, fresh citrus reminiscent of authentic cannoli filling.
- Ricotta Cheese, whole milk (1 ¼ cups): The star player — lends moisture and a creamy tenderness that’s truly cannoli-inspired.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups): Creates just the right amount of structure without making the cookies dense.
- Baking Powder (2 teaspoons): Ensures the cookies puff up into perfectly light, airy domes.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (¾ cup): Capture that essential cannoli bite — always use the minis for the perfect distribution!
- Chopped Pistachios (⅓ cup, optional): For an authentic, nutty accent that’s both gorgeous and delicious.
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting): A gentle snowfall finish that adds a touch of delicacy and visual delight.
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheets and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper — this ensures your Cannoli Cookies won’t stick and get that perfect golden bottom, plus it makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, take your softened butter and sugar and beat them together until they’re wonderfully light and fluffy. This step is key for creating that dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth crumb. Don’t rush it — let the mixer do its magic for three minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs, Vanilla, Orange Zest, and Ricotta
Beat the eggs in one at a time, pausing to scrape down the bowl. Then add in your vanilla extract, fresh orange zest, and creamy ricotta cheese. Mix until your batter looks smooth, thick, and almost like cannoli filling itself.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed before joining the party in your wet bowl. A quick, thorough whisk is all you need.
Step 5: Mix it All Together
Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until everything comes together. The dough will be quite soft — that’s exactly what you want for pillowy Cannoli Cookies.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Pistachios
Now sprinkle in those mini chocolate chips and, if you’re a nut lover, the chopped pistachios. Gently fold them into the dough so every cookie brims with flavor.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges turn just a little golden and the centers look set. Your kitchen will smell like a little Italian bakery!
Step 8: Cool and Dust
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for five minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While still slightly warm, finish them with a generous dusting of powdered sugar for that irresistible bakery look and delicate sweetness.
How to Serve Cannoli Cookies
Garnishes
A shower of powdered sugar is classic, instantly evoking the look (and vibe) of real cannoli. For extra pizzazz, you can sprinkle a hint of extra orange zest or a few more chopped pistachios right after dusting. Think of it as dressing your cookies up for a special occasion!
Side Dishes
Nothing beats a fresh Cannoli Cookie alongside a steamy cup of espresso, cappuccino, or sweet dessert wine. If you’re planning a dessert spread, a dish of fresh berries or a bowl of vanilla bean gelato makes an amazing companion for these tender cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Cannoli Cookies piled high on a rustic cake stand, or for a truly decadent touch, sandwich a swirl of sweetened ricotta filling between two cookies to create “cannoli cookie sandwiches.” For festive occasions, line your serving platter with citrus slices or edible flowers for a gorgeous, bakery-worthy display everyone will rave about!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (good luck!), Cannoli Cookies keep best in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Their cake-like softness stays intact, and a quick dusting of fresh powdered sugar before serving perks them right up.
Freezing
These cookies freeze wonderfully! Place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment. Freeze for up to three months; thaw in the fridge or at room temperature when you need a little taste of Italy on demand.
Reheating
To restore that just-baked magic, pop chilled or thawed cookies in a 300°F oven for 4–5 minutes. This brings back their wonderful texture and aroma. Always finish with a new sprinkle of powdered sugar—because fresh is always best!
FAQs
Can I substitute part-skim ricotta for whole milk ricotta?
Whole milk ricotta truly provides the creamiest, most flavorful base for Cannoli Cookies, but part-skim will work in a pinch. Just know that your cookies may be ever-so-slightly less rich.
Why is my dough so soft—do I need to chill it?
Soft dough is totally normal for Cannoli Cookies and helps create that signature cake-like crumb. No chilling is needed—just scoop and bake immediately for the best results!
Can I make Cannoli Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure to check for any adjustments in baking time, as GF cookies can sometimes brown a touch faster.
What’s the secret to getting the perfect dome shape?
Using a cookie scoop or a rounded tablespoon helps, as does not overmixing the dough. Bake on parchment-lined sheets and don’t flatten the dough balls, and they’ll puff up perfectly every time.
Are pistachios essential?
Not at all! Pistachios are a fun add-in for that authentic cannoli flavor and beautiful green color, but the cookies are equally delicious without them. Customize your batch or make some with and some without—it’s your call!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to capture a bit of Italian joy in your own kitchen, these Cannoli Cookies should be at the top of your baking list. They’re easy to make, full of personality, and just begging to be shared with people you love. Give them a try—one bite, and you’ll see why this recipe is a true keeper!
