Cannoli Cookies Recipe: The Best 30-Minute Treat!

THE PERFECT COOKIE FOR CANNOLI LOVERS

I adore a classic cannoli that crisp, fried shell and sweet, creamy ricotta filling is a little slice of heaven. But let’s be honest, frying shells at home can feel like a big project. What if you could get all that incredible flavor in a simple, no-fuss cookie? Friends, I am so excited to share the solution with you. This incredible Cannoli Cookies Recipe captures the essence of the beloved Italian pastry in a soft, delicious cookie form that is unbelievably easy to make.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS CANNOLI COOKIES RECIPE

You will absolutely fall in love with this Cannoli Cookies Recipe for so many reasons. First, you get all the iconic flavor without any of the hassle of frying. Secondly, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy. Furthermore, these cookies are stunningly delicious and will impress everyone who tries them. They are the perfect crowd pleasing treat for any occasion. Best of all, they are completely customizable with your favorite cannoli add ins like chocolate chips or pistachios.

Print

YOUR EASY CANNOLI COOKIES RECIPE INGREDIENTS

The ingredient list is simple and creates the most magical cookie sandwich.

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cannoli Filling:

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (see note on draining)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for garnish)

HOW TO MAKE CANNOLI COOKIES: STEP BY STEP

Follow these simple steps for perfect, creamy cannoli cookies.

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon sized balls of dough onto ungreased or parchment lined baking sheets. Bake for 10 12 minutes, or until the edges are just barely starting to turn golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the cookies cool, make the filling. It is crucial to drain any excess liquid from the ricotta cheese by placing it in a fine mesh strainer for 15 minutes. In a medium bowl, beat the drained ricotta and softened cream cheese together until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined and creamy. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, spoon a generous amount of the cannoli filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Gently press a second cookie on top to form a sandwich. Repeat with remaining cookies and filling.

Step 5: Final Dusting
Just before serving, dust the assembled cannoli cookies with a light shower of powdered sugar for that classic, beautiful finish.

NUTRITION AND HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

These cannoli cookies are a delightful dessert to be enjoyed in moderation. The ricotta cheese does provide a source of protein and calcium, but the cookies also contain sugar and butter. For a slightly lighter version, you can use part skim ricotta cheese and reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the filling to your taste. The small cookie size helps with natural portion control.

HOW TO SERVE YOUR DELICIOUS CREATIONS

These cookies are best served chilled. Arrange them on a beautiful platter for a party or potluck. They also make a wonderful homemade gift when placed in a festive box or tin. For an authentic Italian experience, serve them with a strong cup of espresso or coffee. They are also a stunning addition to any holiday cookie tray.

HOW TO STORE CANNOLI COOKIES

Because of the dairy based filling, these cookies must be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days. You can store the baked, unfilled cookies at room temperature for up to 3 days and fill them just before serving. I do not recommend freezing the assembled cookies, as the filling can become watery upon thawing.

TIPS AND NOTES: YOUR KITCHEN COMPANION

Details: Draining the ricotta cheese is the most important step for a thick, non runny filling. Do not skip this! You can also use a high quality, dry ricotta.

Variation:

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle the assembled cookies with melted dark or white chocolate instead of dusting with powdered sugar.
• Pistachio: Roll the edges of the filled cookies in finely chopped pistachios for crunch and color.
• Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the filling for a bright, citrusy twist.

Notes: Ensure your cookies are completely cool before adding the filling. A warm cookie will cause the creamy filling to melt and become messy.

CANNOLI COOKIES RECIPE FAQS

Can I use store-bought dough for Cannoli Cookies?
While homemade dough is best for flavor and texture, you can use a store bought sugar cookie dough to save time. Bake the cookies according to the package directions and let them cool completely before filling.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are set and just barely beginning to turn a light golden brown. The centers may still look soft, but they will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I freeze Cannoli Cookies?
You can freeze the unfilled, baked cookies for up to 2 months. However, I do not recommend freezing the cookies after they have been filled, as the dairy filling can separate and become grainy when thawed.

YOUR NEW SIGNATURE COOKIE

This Cannoli Cookies Recipe is truly a game changer. It delivers all the sophisticated flavor of a traditional cannoli in a simple, no fuss cookie that anyone can make. They are sure to become your new signature treat for every occasion. I hope you love making and sharing them as much as I do. Happy baking!