CANNOLI COOKIES

Cannoli cookies bring the beloved flavors of the classic Italian cannoli into a bite-sized, easy-to-make cookie form. With the creamy ricotta cheese, sweet chocolate chips, and crunchy pistachios, these cookies capture the essence of cannoli in every bite. If you love the traditional Italian dessert, you’ll adore these fun and delicious cookies that can be served for any occasion.

Ingredients

To make these irresistible cannoli cookies, you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
   In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
   In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Stir in the ricotta cheese until well combined.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips and Pistachios
   Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dough.
7. Form and Bake the Cookies
   Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges.
8. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar to finish.

Prep Time and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories per Cookie: 150 kcal
• Servings: 24 cookies

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:
Cannoli cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a treat to a gathering, or simply enjoying them at home. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Pair with Coffee or Tea: The richness of these cookies makes them a perfect match for a warm cup of coffee, espresso, or tea.
• Serve as a Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies on a platter along with other Italian-inspired desserts like biscotti or tiramisu for a themed dessert table.
• Garnish with Extra Pistachios or Chocolate Chips: For an extra touch, sprinkle additional chopped pistachios or mini chocolate chips on top of the cookies before serving.

Storage Tips:
Proper storage will help maintain the freshness of these cannoli cookies for several days:

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them soft and fresh.
• Refrigeration: If you’d like the cookies to last longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: Cannoli cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment paper between layers. Thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy the next day.

By following these simple serving and storage tips, you can enjoy these delightful cannoli cookies for longer!

Variations

While the classic cannoli cookie recipe is delicious on its own, there are several fun variations you can try to mix things up. Whether you prefer different flavors or want to add new textures, these variations will elevate your cookie game!

1. Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli Cookies
For an extra layer of sweetness, dip the bottom half of each cookie in melted chocolate. Let the chocolate harden on a parchment-lined tray for a decadent treat.

2. Lemon Cannoli Cookies
Add a refreshing twist by incorporating lemon zest into the dough. You can also drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the cookies for a tangy, citrusy flavor that complements the ricotta cheese.

3. Almond Cannoli Cookies
Infuse the dough with almond extract instead of vanilla extract, and add sliced almonds to the mix for a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the pistachios.

4. Pistachio-Only Cannoli Cookies
For a pistachio lover’s dream, increase the amount of chopped pistachios in the dough and sprinkle extra on top before baking. You can also swap out the mini chocolate chips for more pistachios for a more savory, nut-forward cookie.

5. Cannoli Cookies with Cinnamon and Raisins
Add a dash of ground cinnamon and some plump raisins to the dough for a warm, comforting twist on the traditional flavor. This variation gives the cookies a cozy, autumnal vibe.

6. Coconut Cannoli Cookies
Stir in shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flair. You can also sprinkle coconut flakes on top of the cookies before baking for added texture and flavor.

7. Mini Cannoli Cookies with Ricotta Cream Filling
Make your cannoli cookies bite-sized and create a ricotta filling by mixing ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Fill the center of each mini cookie with this creamy mixture for a more authentic cannoli experience.

These variations allow you to get creative with your cannoli cookies and tailor them to different tastes and preferences, whether you prefer fruity, nutty, or indulgent flavors!

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture and flavor slightly. Full-fat ricotta creates a creamier, richer cookie, so the results may not be as moist with a lower-fat version.

2. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser and nuttier flavor. However, the texture of the cookies may be a bit different, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

3. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these cannoli cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the other ingredients, like baking powder, are gluten-free as well.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before dropping spoonfuls onto the baking sheets.

5. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, cannoli cookies freeze well! After baking and cooling, store the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment paper between the layers. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

6. Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pistachios, you can substitute them with chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts. Each nut will bring its own flavor and texture to the cookies.

7. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
To prevent the cookies from spreading too much, make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and that you don’t overmix the dough. Also, be sure to chill the dough for about 15 minutes before baking if you’re concerned about spreading.

8. How do I store leftover cannoli cookies?
Store leftover cannoli cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.

9. Can I add more chocolate chips to the dough?
Yes, you can increase the amount of mini chocolate chips in the dough if you love a more chocolaty flavor. Just be mindful not to add too much, as it could affect the dough’s texture.

10. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips in place of the mini chocolate chips. Just make sure the chocolate you use is finely chopped if you prefer a smoother, more uniform texture.

Cannoli cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, perfect for anyone who loves a mix of creamy, sweet, and crunchy flavors. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these cookies make a wonderful treat for family gatherings, holidays, or just a delicious snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee. Try this recipe today and bring the taste of Italy to your kitchen!

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