Optional Additions
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for extra warmth
- ½ cup chopped candied fruit for a more traditional Sicilian touch
- A pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor
- White chocolate chips instead of dark for a sweeter variation
Tips for Success
- Use full-fat ricotta for the best texture and moisture.
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted for proper creaming.
- Gently fold in chocolate chips and nuts to avoid overmixing.
- Let the cookies cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent melting.
- For a crispier texture, bake a minute or two longer, but for a softer cookie, slightly underbake them.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, ricotta (or mascarpone), vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips, pistachios, and orange zest.
- Scoop and Bake: Drop tablespoon-sized dough portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Garnish: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve fresh or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Description
Cannoli Cookies are soft, slightly chewy, and bursting with the flavors of ricotta, citrus zest, cinnamon, and chocolate. The combination of textures—from the tender crumb to the slight crunch of chocolate chips and pistachios—creates a well-balanced cookie reminiscent of the beloved Italian pastry. The powdered sugar dusting and chocolate drizzle add a final touch of indulgence.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, Approximate for 24 Cookies)
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Protein: ~2g
- Fat: ~6g
- Sugar: ~8g
- Fiber: ~1g
(Note: Values may vary based on ingredient choices.)
Conclusion and Recommendation
Cannoli Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering a way to enjoy cannoli flavors without the need for frying or pastry work. Perfect for holiday cookie trays, afternoon treats, or as a sweet addition to an Italian-themed dinner, they are both easy to make and impressive to serve.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make a lighter version, consider using part-skim ricotta, reducing the sugar slightly, or swapping some flour for almond flour for added protein and a nuttier flavor. Dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer taste with less sugar, and for a gluten-free option, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
