Cannolis are one of the most beloved Italian desserts, known for their crisp pastry shells filled with sweet, creamy ricotta and speckled with chocolate or pistachios. But what if you could enjoy all the flavors of a cannoli in an easier-to-make, handheld treat? Enter Cannoli Cookies—a delightful twist that captures the essence of the classic dessert in a soft, chewy cookie.
These cookies are perfect for holiday trays, special gatherings, or simply when you want to indulge in a little taste of Italy without all the work of frying pastry shells. With a tender texture, subtle notes of ricotta, and pops of chocolate and nuts, cannoli cookies deliver comfort and elegance in every bite.
What Are Cannoli Cookies?
Cannoli cookies take the key flavors of traditional cannolis—ricotta, citrus zest, chocolate, and nuts—and transform them into a soft-baked cookie. Instead of filling shells, ricotta cheese is incorporated directly into the dough, giving it a light, moist texture. Bits of mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios mimic the classic cannoli fillings, while powdered sugar provides the signature finishing touch.
The result is a cookie that’s slightly crisp on the outside, fluffy inside, and bursting with flavor—an irresistible treat that feels both nostalgic and innovative.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these bakery-worthy cookies at home:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred, drained if watery)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (or lemon zest for brightness)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 12–14 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Ricotta and Egg
Mix in the ricotta, egg, vanilla, and orange zest until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
5. Add Mix-Ins
Fold in mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.
6. Scoop and Bake
Scoop tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between cookies. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
. Cool and Dust
Allow cookies to cool slightly, then dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sugar: 9g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
These cookies deliver indulgence with a balance of sweetness and richness, making them a perfect portion-controlled treat.
Presentation and Serving Ideas
- Holiday Ready: Pile cannoli cookies high on a platter dusted with powdered sugar for a festive look.
- Gift Giving: Package them in clear bags tied with ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts.
- Dessert Board: Serve alongside biscotti, amaretti, and fresh fruit for an Italian-inspired dessert spread.
- Extra Indulgence: Drizzle with melted chocolate or dip half of each cookie in chocolate and sprinkle with pistachios.
Variations to Try
- Almond Twist: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract for a nutty depth.
- Citrus Boost: Use lemon zest instead of orange for a brighter, tangier cookie.
- Spiced Version: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or cardamom for warmth.
- Nut-Free: Skip the pistachios and add extra chocolate chips.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a lighter version.
Tips for the Perfect Cannoli Cookies
- Drain the Ricotta: If your ricotta is very wet, strain it in cheesecloth or a fine sieve to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Fresh Zest: Use freshly grated zest for the most vibrant flavor.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Why Cannoli Cookies Deserve a Spot on Your Table
Cannoli cookies offer everything you love about the Italian classic without the effort of frying shells or piping filling. They’re simple enough for everyday baking yet elegant enough for special occasions. Each bite delivers layers of flavor—from the creamy ricotta base to the chocolate and pistachio bursts—making them a crowd-pleasing favorite.
They’re also versatile: dusted with sugar for a classic look, dipped in chocolate for indulgence, or customized with your favorite flavors. No matter how you make them, they bring the heart of Italian baking into your kitchen in a way that’s approachable and irresistible.
If you’re searching for a cookie that blends tradition with convenience, Cannoli Cookies are the answer. They’re soft, sweet, slightly tangy from ricotta, and filled with the flavors of a true cannoli—all in a portable, fuss-free cookie form.
Bake a batch for the holidays, for family gatherings, or simply to treat yourself, and you’ll discover why these cookies are quickly becoming a modern classic in kitchens everywhere.