Cannoli Cookies

A delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of cannoli with a soft, chewy cookie, Cannoli Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies will impress with their almond flavor and creamy filling. Each bite is speckled with mini chocolate chips, making them a unique and delicious dessert option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The almond and vanilla extracts create a rich flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them at parties, family gatherings, or enjoy them as an everyday snack.
• Beautiful Presentation: Topped with a luscious filling and chocolate chips, they look as good as they taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or fruit to the filling for an extra twist!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make preparing Cannoli Cookies even easier. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheet
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your dry and wet ingredients thoroughly.
• Cookie sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Ensures that your butter and sugar cream together smoothly for light and fluffy dough.

Ingredients

A tender, almond-flavored cookie becomes the perfect vehicle for a light and creamy cannoli topping. Speckled with mini chocolate chips, they’re sweet bites of heaven.

Ingredients:
– 1 ¼ cups flour
– ¾ teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup butter
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ teaspoon almond extract
– ½ cup heavy whipping cream
– ¾ cup ricotta cheese
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– ½ teaspoon vanilla
– 1 cup mini chocolate chips

How to Make Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

• In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In another bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Extracts

• Beat in the egg along with the vanilla extract and almond extract until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

• Gradually stir in the flour mixture until it is fully incorporated into the dough.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

• Scoop out walnut-sized balls of dough (about 1½ tablespoons each). Flatten each ball to between ¼ and ½ inch thickness.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

• Place the cookies on a cookie sheet with about 2 inches of space between each. Bake in the center of the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they lose their sheen and are set on the edges.

Step 8: Cool Cookies

Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Step 9: Prepare Filling

While cooling, beat heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Then gently fold in ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well blended.

Step 10: Add Chocolate Chips

Stir in mini chocolate chips to complete your filling.

Step 11: Assemble Cookies

Spread about 2 tablespoons of the whipped mixture over each cooled cookie. Enjoy your delicious Cannoli Cookies!

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

Cannoli cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for dessert or a sweet snack, these cookies can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve your cannoli cookies with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Sliced Bananas: The creaminess of bananas complements the almond flavor of the cookies perfectly.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a rich pairing that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Chocolate Sorbet: For a dairy-free option, chocolate sorbet adds an indulgent touch without overwhelming the flavors.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cheesecake Bites: Include mini cheesecake bites on the platter for added variety and creaminess.
• Fruit Tartlets: Their tartness will contrast beautifully with the sweet cannoli cookies.

How to Perfect Cannoli Cookies

To achieve the best cannoli cookies, consider these helpful tips. Small adjustments can lead to outstanding results.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and provides better texture.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This will help them combine more easily for a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies. Gentle folding ensures a tender texture.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Ovens vary; check your cookies around 8 minutes to prevent over-baking. Look for lightly golden edges.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Cannoli Cookies

Cannoli cookies can shine on their own, but pairing them with side dishes elevates the experience. Here are some great options.

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings freshness and complements the sweetness of the cookies well.
2. Nut Medley: A mix of nuts adds crunch and depth, balancing out the soft textures of cannoli cookies.
3. Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee enhance the almond notes in the cookies, making each bite even more satisfying.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip halves of cannoli cookies into warm chocolate for a decadent treat that takes them to another level.
5. Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream alongside adds extra creaminess that pairs beautifully with every bite.
6. Classic Biscotti: Offer a few pieces of biscotti as a crunchy contrast to the soft cannoli cookie texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Cannoli Cookies to a new level of deliciousness.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, well-mixed dough.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than tender ones.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow cookies to cool before adding the filling. This prevents the whipped mixture from melting and maintains its texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugars. Too much or too little can affect the final result.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven to ensure even baking. An unheated oven can lead to unevenly baked cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cannoli Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cannoli Cookies

• Freeze cookies without filling for best results.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Cannoli Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and warm for 5-7 minutes until just heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cannoli Cookies.

Can I make Cannoli Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie base in advance and store it. Just fill them with the creamy mixture right before serving for freshness.

How do I customize my Cannoli Cookies?

Feel free to add different flavors like orange zest or swap chocolate chips with dried fruits or nuts for variety.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with mascarpone cheese or cream cheese for a different taste while keeping the creamy texture.

Are Cannoli Cookies suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! Their delightful flavor and beautiful presentation make them perfect for parties or celebrations.

How should I serve Cannoli Cookies?

Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delightful dessert after any meal. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea!

Final Thoughts

These Cannoli Cookies offer an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They’re versatile, allowing you to customize them as you wish. Whether you stick to traditional ingredients or get creative, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends!