Cannoli Cookies

These Cannoli Cookies bring all the flavors of classic cannoli to a soft, delicious cookie! With creamy ricotta, mini chocolate chips, and a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are a delightful twist on the beloved Italian dessert. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a taste of Italy, these cookies are sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, ricotta cheese, and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes .
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

1. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips using a spatula. The dough will be soft but manageable.

Step 5: Scoop and Shape

1. Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
2. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently flatten each cookie slightly.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes , or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are set. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft and chewy.

Step 7: Cool

1. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes , then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Dust with Powdered Sugar

1. Once the cookies are completely cool, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a sweet, festive finish.

Tips for Success

• Ricotta Tip: Use whole-milk ricotta cheese for the best flavor and texture. Drain any excess liquid by pressing it through a fine-mesh sieve before measuring.
• Chocolate Chips: Substitute mini chocolate chips with chopped pistachios or candied orange peel for a more traditional cannoli flavor.
• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Add a fresh dusting of powdered sugar before serving if needed.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cannoli Cookies are a celebration of classic Italian flavors in a fun, bite-sized form. The creamy ricotta gives the cookies a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the mini chocolate chips add bursts of sweetness. Finished with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because, these cookies are sure to impress. Dive into this soft, chewy treat and savor every bite of cannoli-inspired goodness!