Here’s a recipe for Best Cannoli Cookies—crispy, creamy, and full of the classic cannoli flavors in cookie form.
Best Cannoli Cookies
Ingredients (makes ~24 cookies)
For the cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
For the filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, drained well
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional: 1 tsp orange zest or 1 tsp finely chopped candied fruit
Optional garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Extra chocolate chips for topping
Instructions
1. Make the cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla; mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely.
2. Prepare the filling
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and optional zest or candied fruit.
- Chill for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
3. Assemble the cookies
- Spread or pipe a generous layer of filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
- Top with another cookie to make a sandwich.
- Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with extra chocolate chips if desired.
Tips
- Drain ricotta: For the creamiest filling, strain ricotta through cheesecloth or a fine mesh for at least 30 minutes.
- Flavor variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the filling.
- Make-ahead: Cookies and filling can be made separately and assembled before serving.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
I can also give you a mini cannoli cookie version or a no-bake cannoli cookie bite recipe if you want a quicker treat.