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Cannoli Cookies

Italian cannoli cookies recipe

Melena
These soft, chewy Cannoli Cookies capture all the classic flavors of Italian cannoli — creamy ricotta, citrus zest, mini chocolate chips, and crunchy pistachios — in an easy, no-fry cookie form. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a cozy homemade treat, they’re rich, festive, and effortlessly elegant.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cookie Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract for a nutty flavor
  • For the Cannoli Flavor:
  • ¾ cup whole milk ricotta cheese well-drained
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest or lemon zest
  • ¼ cup finely chopped pistachios or almonds
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Melted chocolate for dipping or drizzling
  • Crushed pistachios for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Drain the Ricotta:
  • If your ricotta contains excess moisture, drain it using cheesecloth or paper towels for 30 minutes. This ensures your cookies bake with the perfect texture.
  • Make the Dough:
  • In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Stir in vanilla extract.
  • Combine Dry Ingredients:
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  • Add Cannoli Flavors:
  • Fold in the drained ricotta, mini chocolate chips, orange zest, and chopped pistachios until evenly distributed.
  • Chill (Optional):
  • For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 15–20 minutes before baking.
  • Scoop and Bake:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drop dough by tablespoons, spacing 2 inches apart.
  • Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
  • Cool and Decorate:
  • Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate. Garnish with crushed pistachios if desired.

Notes

  • Use room-temperature ingredients: This helps the dough mix evenly and keeps cookies tender.
  • Don’t overmix: Overworking the dough can make cookies dense.
  • Chill before baking: This prevents spreading and enhances texture.
  • Use whole-milk ricotta: It adds richness and keeps cookies moist.