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The Best Cannoli Cookies
I still remember the first time I tried cannoli. My grandma would take me to our favorite Italian bakery every Sunday after dinner. The sweet smell of baked goods filled the air, and I could hardly wait to savor the crispy shell filled with creamy ricotta. Those moments were special; they made me feel warm and loved. As I grew up, I wanted to bring that joy into my own kitchen. One day, I thought—why not turn that classic dessert into a cookie? That’s how I created The Best Cannoli Cookies. They remind me of Grandma, and I love sharing them with my family and friends.
why make this recipe
The Best Cannoli Cookies offer a delightful experience for everyone. First, they combine the classic flavors of cannoli with the comfort of cookies. Imagine a crunchy exterior with a creamy filling. Your taste buds will dance with every bite. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make. You can whip up a batch quickly, making them perfect for gatherings or as a weeknight treat.
Moreover, they are so versatile! You can serve them at family gatherings, holiday parties, or even enjoy them with a late-night cup of coffee. They please everyone, from kids to grandparents. Plus, you can customize the mix-ins to match your taste. Maybe you prefer dark chocolate instead of mini chocolate chips, or perhaps you want to sprinkle some cinnamon for extra warmth. The possibilities are endless! If you want something sweet that brings people together, look no further than The Best Cannoli Cookies.
how to make The Best Cannoli Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- 1 large Egg
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Pistachios
- 1/2 cup Ricotta cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and stir until just combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
how to serve The Best Cannoli Cookies
You can serve The Best Cannoli Cookies in several delightful ways. First, present them on a beautiful plate, dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. This adds a nice visual contrast against the cookie’s golden color. Make sure to serve them slightly warm for the best experience. The creaminess of the ricotta shines through when they are fresh out of the oven.
Consider pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This adds an extra layer of indulgence. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a rich espresso or a cup of herbal tea. The warm flavors will complement the cookies perfectly.
If you serve at a gathering, think about preparing a small dessert table. Place a few different cookie varieties next to The Best Cannoli Cookies to offer a range of flavors. This way, everyone can enjoy their favorites! Lastly, these cookies also make great party favors. Wrap them in clear bags tied with a ribbon for a sweet takeaway.
how to store The Best Cannoli Cookies
After baking The Best Cannoli Cookies, you should store them properly. First, let them cool completely on a wire rack. This helps maintain their texture. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for about 5 days at room temperature.
If you want to save them longer, consider freezing. Line a tray with parchment paper and place the cookies in a single layer. Freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. These cookies can last in the freezer for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or keep them at room temperature for a couple of hours.
To maintain a nice texture, avoid stacking them until they are completely cool. If you freeze them, enjoy them warm by popping them in the oven for a few minutes once thawed.
Tips to Make The Best Cannoli Cookies
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your ricotta cheese and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a creamy texture and allows for better blending of the ingredients.
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: When you combine the flour, be careful not to overmix. A gentle stir until just combined will help keep your cookies light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and can improve the texture. Plus, it can help your cookies hold their shape during baking.
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Customize the Add-Ins: Feel free to swap out the mini chocolate chips with other flavors. Dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can add a new twist to the cookies.
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Check for Doneness: Oven times can vary. Start checking the cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time. You want them golden brown but not too dark, as they will continue to cook slightly once out of the oven.
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Experiment with Spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist. These spices can enhance the overall flavor while keeping the essence of cannoli.
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Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
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Serving Temperature: These cookies taste best served warm. If you have leftover cookies, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to revive that fresh-baked flavor.
Variation
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Chocolate Version: For a chocolatey twist, replace half of the flour with cocoa powder. This creates a rich chocolate cookie that remains sweet and soft. Add more chocolate chips for an extra indulgent experience.
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Fruity Version: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped fresh strawberries or blueberries into the dough. The fruit adds a pop of flavor and color. These cookies become a refreshing treat ideal for summer.
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Nutty Version: If you enjoy nuts, add 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or almonds. This enhances the texture and adds an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta.
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Minted Holiday Version: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive twist. These cookies will taste like a candy cane, perfect for holiday gatherings. Serve them alongside hot chocolate for a warm treat.
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Dairy-Free Swap: For those avoiding dairy, use a coconut-based ricotta alternative. This keeps the creamy texture while making the cookies lighter and suitable for a dairy-free diet.
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Monster Cookies: Enhance The Best Cannoli Cookies by adding oats and assorted candies. Fold in 1/2 cup of oats along with chocolate chips and use colorful candy pieces for a fun, kid-friendly decor.
FAQs Of The Best Cannoli Cookies
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How can I store The Best Cannoli Cookies for freshness?
You should store The Best Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container. They can stay fresh for about 5 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to 2-3 months. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a container or bag. -
Can I freeze The Best Cannoli Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Once they cool completely, freeze them on a parchment-lined tray until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can take them out and thaw them whenever you want a treat. -
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese in this recipe?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese or want a different flavor, you can try using cottage cheese blended until smooth. You can also use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar creamy texture. -
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Check The Best Cannoli Cookies around 12 minutes into baking. They should be golden around the edges but still slightly soft in the middle. They will continue to set as they cool, so don’t let them get too brown. -
Can I switch out the mini chocolate chips?
Yes! Feel free to swap the mini chocolate chips for your preferred mix-ins. Some delicious alternatives include dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit. These changes can give the cookies a unique flavor. -
What is the best way to serve The Best Cannoli Cookies?
Serve The Best Cannoli Cookies slightly warm with a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream or a hot beverage. They are perfect for parties or simply enjoying on a cozy evening!
Each bite of The Best Cannoli Cookies brings warmth and nostalgia, just like those wonderful afternoons with my grandma. There’s something magical about these little treats that brings people together, creating joyful moments. I wish you all the best on your baking adventure!
Print
The Best Cannoli Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies that capture the classic flavors of cannoli with a crunchy exterior and creamy filling.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- 1 large Egg
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Pistachios
- 1/2 cup Ricotta cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and stir until just combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Serve warm with ice cream for an indulgent treat. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cannoli, cookies, dessert, Italian, sweet treats
