If you love the creamy, crispy, and lightly sweet flavors of traditional Italian cannoli, you’re going to fall head over heels for these cannoli cookies! They capture everything you adore about classic cannoli, rich ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, warm cinnamon, and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar wrapped into a soft, chewy cookie.
These homemade cannoli cookies bring you the best of both worlds: all the authentic Italian flavors you crave, without the hassle of deep-frying cannoli shells. They’re easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and irresistibly delicious with a cup of coffee or a scoop of gelato.
Table of Contents
What Makes These Cannoli Cookies Special?
✔ No Frying Required – Skip the deep-fryer; these cookies are baked to perfection!
✔ Rich, Creamy Texture – Thanks to ricotta, each bite is ultra-soft and flavorful.
✔ Classic Italian Ingredients – Cinnamon, vanilla, and chocolate bring out the best in every bite.
✔ Great for Any Occasion – From holiday cookie trays to everyday sweet cravings, these are a hit!
✔ Customizable & Fun to Make – Add nuts, citrus zest, or a drizzle of chocolate to make them your own.
Want to know the secret to the best cannoli cookies? It’s all about using quality ingredients and following a few expert baking tricks, don’t worry, I’ll guide you through every step. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this fail-proof cannoli cookie recipe will have your kitchen smelling like an Italian bakery in no time.
Let’s get started! 👩🍳✨
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into baking, let’s talk about the essential ingredients that make these cannoli cookies absolutely irresistible. Using high-quality ingredients is key to getting that authentic Italian flavor and perfect texture.
🛒 Ingredient List:
(📌 Pro tip: Measure all ingredients before you start for a smooth baking process!)
🔹 Ricotta Cheese – The secret to soft, moist cookies! Opt for whole milk ricotta to achieve the creamiest texture and richest flavor in your cookies.
🔹 Unsalted Butter – Gives richness and a tender texture.
🔹 Granulated Sugar – Balances the flavors and enhances the cookie’s sweetness.
🔹 Egg – Helps bind everything together.
🔹 All-Purpose Flour – The base for a perfectly soft cookie.
🔹 Baking Powder – Ensures a light, airy texture.
🔹 Ground Cinnamon – Adds that signature Italian bakery warmth.
🔹 Vanilla Extract – A must for depth of flavor!
🔹 Mini Chocolate Chips – For that classic cannoli touch.
🔹 Chopped Pistachios (Optional) – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
🔹 Powdered Sugar (For Dusting) – Just like a traditional cannoli!
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:
✔ Want a citrusy twist? Add orange zest for a fresh, authentic flavor.
✔ Need a gluten-free version? Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
✔ Prefer more richness? Substitute part of the butter with mascarpone cheese for extra creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Cannoli Cookies
📌 Follow these easy steps to create the perfect batch of cannoli cookies! They’re simple, beginner-friendly, and taste like they came straight from an Italian bakery.
🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). This step ensures a soft cookie texture.
2️⃣ Add in the ricotta cheese, egg, and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
📌 Pro Tip: If your ricotta is watery, drain it in a cheesecloth for about 30 minutes before using. This prevents excess moisture in the dough.
🔹 Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
1️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
2️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
📌 Baking Hack: For extra flavor, toast the cinnamon for a few seconds before adding it to the mix!
🔹 Step 3: Fold in the Chocolate Chips & Pistachios
1️⃣ Gently fold in mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios (if using).
2️⃣ Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading and intensifies the flavors.
📌 Shortcut: No time to chill? Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze for 10 minutes instead!
🔹 Step 4: Scoop & Bake
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3️⃣ Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough balls onto the prepared sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4️⃣ Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
📌 How to Tell They’re Done: The cookies should be soft in the center but firm around the edges.
🔹 Step 5: Cool & Add the Final Touches
1️⃣ Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
2️⃣ Once fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar for the classic cannoli look.
3️⃣ Want an extra fancy touch? Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a bakery-style finish!
Pro Baking Tips for the Best Cannoli Cookies
✔ Use Fresh Ricotta – The fresher, the better! It gives the cookies an authentic creamy texture.
✔ Chill the Dough – This step prevents spreading and enhances the flavors.
✔ Don’t Overbake – These cookies should stay soft, they firm up as they cool.
✔ Experiment with Flavors – Try adding lemon zest or a splash of almond extract for a unique twist.
How to Serve & Store Cannoli Cookies for Maximum Freshness
These cannoli cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but with the right storage tips, you can keep them soft, delicious, and bakery-fresh for days!
🍪 Best Ways to Serve Cannoli Cookies
✔ Classic Style – Serve them with a light dusting of powdered sugar, just like traditional cannoli.
✔ Chocolate Drizzle – Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over the cookies for an extra indulgent touch.
✔ Pair with Coffee or Espresso – These cookies taste amazing with Italian espresso, cappuccino, or a latte.
✔ Gelato Sandwich – Get creative! Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of vanilla or pistachio gelato.
✔ Holiday Cookie Tray – Add these to your Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving dessert spread.
📌 Pro Tip: Hosting a gathering? Arrange these cookies on a platter with traditional cannoli, Italian ricotta cookies, and biscotti for an authentic Italian dessert experience!
🛑 How to Store Cannoli Cookies & Keep Them Fresh
Proper storage ensures that your cannoli cookies stay soft, moist, and flavorful for as long as possible. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
🔹 Storing at Room Temperature (Best for 3-4 Days)
✔ Place cooled cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
✔ Keep them at room temperature in a cool, dry place (avoid direct sunlight).
✔ Avoid the fridge! Storing in the refrigerator can make them dry and change their texture.
🔹 Can You Freeze Cannoli Cookies? (Yes! Here’s How)
✔ To Freeze Baked Cookies: Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ To Freeze Dough: Scoop cookie dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen (add 2-3 extra minutes to baking time).
📌 Quick Tip: When ready to eat frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes for the best taste and texture!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
💡 Have questions? Here are answers to the most common queries about making and storing cannoli cookies!
Can I Make Cannoli Cookies Ahead of Time?
Yes! These cookies stay fresh for up to 3-4 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. If making ahead for a special event, you can freeze the dough and bake them fresh when needed.
Do I Need to Drain the Ricotta?
Yes, if your ricotta is extra watery, draining it using cheesecloth or paper towels can prevent excess moisture in the dough. This step helps achieve the perfect soft-but-not-too-wet cookie texture.
What’s the Best Chocolate for Cannoli Cookies?
For the most authentic flavor, use high-quality mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (60-70% cacao). Avoid overly sweet chocolate, as cannoli cookies already have a delicate sweetness.
Can I Make These Cookies Without Ricotta?
Ricotta is a key ingredient, but if you don’t have it, you can try substituting with mascarpone cheese or a blend of cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture.
Why Are My Cannoli Cookies Spreading Too Much?
Dough was too warm – Always chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Too much moisture – If your ricotta is watery, drain it before using.
Incorrect flour measurement – Use the scoop & level method (don’t pack flour into the cup).
Can I Add More Flavors to These Cookies?
Absolutely! Try these fun variations:
Orange Zest – Adds a citrusy twist.
Almond Extract – Enhances the nutty, Italian flavor.
Pistachios or Hazelnuts – For a crunchy texture.
Espresso Powder – Deepens the chocolate flavor.
How Do I Make a Gluten-Free Version?
Simply swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The rest of the recipe remains the same!
Easy Cannoli Cookie Recipe – A Delicious Italian-Inspired Treat
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon
- Wire Rack
- Fine-Mesh Sieve
Ingredients
- ✅ Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar for sweetness
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese drain if watery
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for depth of flavor
- ✅ Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted for a lighter texture
- 1 teaspoon baking powder leavening agent
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon adds warmth
- ¼ teaspoon salt balances flavors
- ✅ Mix-ins & Toppings:
- ¾ cup mini chocolate chips for that classic cannoli taste
- ½ cup chopped pistachios optional, adds crunch
- Powdered sugar for dusting (classic cannoli topping)
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Prepare the Dough:
- Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add ricotta, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- 2️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until just combined.
- 3️⃣ Add Mix-ins & Chill the Dough:
- Fold in chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.
- Cover and refrigerate dough for 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
- 4️⃣ Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown around the edges.
- 5️⃣ Cool & Garnish:
- Let cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Once fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar.
- Optional: Chocolate Drizzle
- Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over the cookies for an extra decadent touch.
Notes
✔ Want a crunchier texture? Bake for an extra 2 minutes until golden.
✔ Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
Final Thoughts – Try This Cannoli Cookie Recipe Today!
Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and answers, it’s time to bake a batch of these delicious cannoli cookies! Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a gathering, or just a cozy treat at home, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
Did you love this recipe? Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and comment below! I’d love to hear how yours turned out.
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Looking for more easy cookie ideas? Check out our full collection of Easy Cookie Recipes to discover other delicious treats!