Okay, let’s talk cookies but not just any cookies. These Cannoli Cookies are the delightful mashup of everything you love about the classic Italian dessert, wrapped into a soft, chewy, totally irresistible treat. Imagine buttery cookie dough kissed with hints of orange zest, dotted with chocolate chips, and filled with ricotta-style richness. Yep, we’re doing that.

These cookies taste like a little trip to a cozy Sicilian bakery, minus the airfare. They’ve got that creamy, lightly sweet, citrus-meets-vanilla vibe going on, with the perfect tender texture. If you’ve never had a cookie quite like this, trust me you’re in for something special. These are the kind of cookies that disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love Cannoli Cookies

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or a fancy tea-time treat.
Budget-Friendly: All the cannoli vibes without the cannoli price.
Quick and Easy: Comes together faster than you’d expect no shells, no frying, no fuss.
Customizable: Add nuts, swap the chips, or switch up the zest make them your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Cannoli Cookies

Here’s what makes these cookies taste like magic in every bite. It’s a cozy mix of traditional cannoli flavors and soft-baked cookie texture. Total win.

Ricotta Cheese

Creamy and mild, it’s the heart of the cookie like the filling of a real cannoli, but baked right in.

Butter

Adds that rich, indulgent flavor and keeps the cookies tender and chewy.

Granulated Sugar

Sweetens the deal and helps give the cookies their classic soft structure.

Eggs

For moisture, structure, and that bakery-style texture we love.

All-Purpose Flour

The base that holds everything together and gives just the right chew.

Baking Powder

Lifts and lightens the cookie texture so it’s fluffy, not dense.

Vanilla Extract

Warm and sweet essential to get that classic dessert flavor.

Orange Zest

Bright and fragrant, this adds a fresh zing that makes these cookies pop.

Mini Chocolate Chips

Because cannoli without chocolate? Not on our watch. These give sweet little bursts in every bite.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and get that lightly golden edge we love.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, ricotta, and sugar until light and fluffy. Then add the eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest, mixing until fully combined.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This keeps cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

Assemble the Dish

Add the flour and baking powder to the wet ingredients, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips.

Cook to Perfection

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until edges are just golden and centers are set.

Finishing Touches

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve and Enjoy

These beauties are perfect served with a dusting of powdered sugar—or just as they are. They’re the perfect bite of nostalgic sweetness.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per serving: 130
(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 29 minutes

How to Serve Cannoli Cookies

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with espresso or cappuccino for an authentic Italian café vibe.
• Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.
• Stack a few in a box or jar for a sweet homemade gift.
• Perfect for cookie trays at holidays or festive parties.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Make sure to drain excess liquid from the ricotta before using for best texture.
• Use fresh orange zest it makes a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t overmix the dough once the flour is added to avoid tough cookies.
• Chill the dough if it’s too sticky before scooping.
• Store in an airtight container to keep them soft and chewy for days.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use part-skim ricotta?
Yes, but whole milk ricotta gives the richest texture.

2. Do I need to chill the dough?
Only if it feels too soft. Otherwise, you’re good to go right after mixing.

3. Can I use regular chocolate chips?
Sure, but mini chips blend better into the dough and give more even bites.

4. How long do they last?
Stored properly, they stay fresh for 3–4 days. Freeze for longer storage.

5. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Scoop onto a tray and freeze, then store in a bag to bake as needed.

6. Can I skip the orange zest?
You can, but it really adds a special brightness to the flavor.

7. What’s the best way to drain ricotta?
Use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours.

8. Can I add nuts?
Absolutely! Finely chopped pistachios or almonds would be amazing.

9. Do they taste like real cannoli?
They’re inspired by the flavors think soft, sweet, and creamy with that classic twist.

10. Can I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and check your baking powder and chocolate chips for gluten-free labels.

Conclusion

Cannoli Cookies are a sweet little surprise that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. They’re the perfect combo of creamy, chewy, citrusy, and chocolatey all in one soft-baked treat. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a party, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re bound to become a new favorite. Go ahead and whip up a batch you deserve it!

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