If you love classic Italian desserts, you’re going to adore cannoli cookies! These delightful treats bring together the best of traditional cannoli flavors in an easy-to-make cookie form. With a soft, buttery texture, a hint of cinnamon, and the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.

Unlike traditional Sicilian cannoli, which require deep-frying and careful handling of delicate pastry shells, cannoli cookies offer a simpler alternative that still delivers the signature flavors of chocolate, ricotta, and powdered sugar. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – No need for special equipment like cannoli molds.
• Rich and Flavorful – Features ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, and cinnamon for a traditional taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, parties, or an everyday sweet treat.

These cookies take inspiration from authentic cannoli, a dessert with deep roots in Sicilian cuisine. If you’re curious about the history of cannoli, check out this Wikipedia article on Sicilian Cannoli. You’ll find how this delicious pastry evolved into various modern adaptations, including cookies!

Want to see different variations of cannoli cookies? Browse some creative cannoli cookie recipes on Pinterest to get inspired!

Now, let’s dive into the history of this classic Italian treat and how it inspired the creation of cannoli cookies!

The Origins of Cannoli & Cannoli Cookies

A Taste of Sicily: The History of Cannoli

The origins of cannoli trace back to Sicily, Italy, where these delicious pastries have been enjoyed for centuries. Traditionally, cannoli consist of crispy, deep-fried pastry shells filled with a rich and creamy ricotta cheese mixture, often sweetened with sugar and flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, or even citrus zest.

Historians believe that cannoli were first created during Arab rule in Sicily (9th to 11th century), when the island’s cuisine was heavily influenced by Middle Eastern flavors. The use of ricotta cheese and honey-sweetened pastries was a common element in both Sicilian and Arab desserts, which helped shape the beloved cannoli we know today. You can learn more about the deep-rooted history of Sicilian cannoli here.

Over time, cannoli became a staple of Italian celebrations, especially during Carnevale, the famous Italian festival held before Lent. Today, these treats are enjoyed worldwide and are considered one of Italy’s most iconic desserts.

The Evolution of Cannoli Cookies

As delicious as cannoli are, they can be time-consuming to make, requiring careful preparation of the pastry dough, deep-frying, and filling the shells. That’s where cannoli cookies come in!

These cookies offer all the flavors of traditional cannoli—ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, cinnamon, and powdered sugar—but in a simple, no-fry recipe. Instead of a crisp shell, cannoli cookies have a soft, cake-like texture that melts in your mouth.

This modern take on cannoli allows for endless variations. Some bakers add chopped pistachios for crunch, while others dip the cookies in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. If you’re looking for more creative ways to bake these cookies, check out Pinterest’s collection of Italian dessert recipes.

Now that you know the history behind this beloved Italian treat, let’s dive into the key ingredients that make cannoli cookies so special!

Key Ingredients for Authentic Cannoli Cookies

Creating the perfect cannoli cookies starts with high-quality ingredients that replicate the traditional flavors of cannoli. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the soft, tender texture and rich, creamy taste that make these cookies irresistible.

Essential Ingredients & Their Roles

1. Ricotta Cheese – The Heart of the Recipe

• Ricotta cheese is the star ingredient in both traditional cannoli and cannoli cookies.
• It adds moisture, richness, and a slightly tangy flavor to the cookies.
• Always use whole-milk ricotta for the best texture. Avoid overly wet ricotta by draining excess moisture before using.
• Want to learn more about ricotta cheese? Check out this Wikipedia guide on ricotta.

2. Butter & Sugar – The Cookie Base

• Unsalted butter gives the cookies a rich, buttery flavor while keeping them soft.
• Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps achieve a light, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.

3. Flour & Baking Powder – The Structure Builders

• All-purpose flour creates the perfect balance of softness and structure.
• Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise and achieve their pillowy texture. Learn more about its role in baking from this Wikipedia page on baking powder.

4. Cinnamon & Vanilla Extract – Classic Italian Flavors

• A small amount of cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the cookies, mirroring the subtle spice found in traditional cannoli filling.
• Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the dough.

5. Mini Chocolate Chips – A Sweet & Classic Addition

• Mini chocolate chips are a signature ingredient in cannoli cookies, adding rich chocolate flavor to every bite.
• Using mini chips instead of regular-sized ones ensures even distribution throughout the dough.
• Learn more about the origins of chocolate chips in this Wikipedia article.

6. Chopped Pistachios – A Nutty, Crunchy Twist (Optional)

• In traditional Sicilian cannoli, pistachios are often used as a garnish. Adding them to cookies introduces a delightful crunch and a hint of nutty flavor.
• For extra authenticity, lightly toast the pistachios before folding them into the dough.
• Pistachios are also packed with nutrients—find out more in this Wikipedia entry on pistachios.

7. Powdered Sugar – The Signature Finishing Touch

• A light dusting of powdered sugar gives these cookies their classic cannoli look and an extra layer of sweetness.
• To prevent clumping, sift the powdered sugar before sprinkling it over the cookies.

Optional Variations & Substitutions

Looking to tweak the recipe to suit dietary preferences? Here are some variations:

• Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free Substitute: Replace ricotta cheese with coconut-based ricotta and butter with vegan butter.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing, tangy flavor.
• Chocolate-Dipped Cookies: Dip the baked cookies in melted dark chocolate for an indulgent finish.

Now that we’ve covered the key ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making perfect cannoli cookies!

How to Make Cannoli Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know the essential ingredients, it’s time to make the perfect cannoli cookies! Follow this easy step-by-step guide to achieve soft, flavorful cookies with a hint of cinnamon and chocolate.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you begin, ensure you have the following ingredients ready:
✔ ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
✔ ½ cup ricotta cheese (drained if necessary)
✔ ¾ cup granulated sugar
✔ 1 egg
✔ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
✔ 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
✔ ½ teaspoon baking powder
✔ ¼ teaspoon salt
✔ ½ teaspoon cinnamon
✔ ½ cup mini chocolate chips
✔ ½ cup chopped pistachios (optional)
✔ ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

For the best texture, use room-temperature butter and ricotta cheese. This ensures the ingredients mix evenly and create a smooth dough. If your ricotta is too watery, strain it using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve for about 30 minutes.

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Step 2: Preheat the Oven & Prepare Your Baking Sheet

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly heated oven ensures the cookies bake evenly.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Baking at the right temperature is crucial for the perfect texture. Too high, and your cookies may spread too much. Too low, and they might become dense. Learn more about proper baking techniques with these expert cookie baking tips on Pinterest.

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Step 3: Cream the Butter, Ricotta & Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, ricotta cheese, and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
• This step helps incorporate air into the dough, making the cookies soft and tender.

Did you know that creaming butter and sugar is one of the most important steps in baking? It affects the overall structure of cookies by determining how much they spread. If you’re interested in learning more about baking science, check out this Wikipedia article on baking powder to understand how it helps cookies rise.

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Step 4: Add the Egg & Vanilla Extract

• Crack the egg into the bowl and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
• Mix on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can make the cookies dense.

Vanilla enhances the sweet and creamy flavors of the ricotta and pairs perfectly with mini chocolate chips and cinnamon. If you love traditional Italian desserts, you’ll find that vanilla and citrus zest are key ingredients in many recipes. For more ideas, check out these classic Italian dessert recipes on Pinterest.

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Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
• Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.

Adding cinnamon gives the cookies that signature warm flavor found in traditional cannoli filling. The subtle spice enhances the sweetness of the ricotta and chocolate.

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Step 6: Fold in Mini Chocolate Chips & Pistachios

• Gently fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips and ½ cup chopped pistachios (if using).
• Mixing by hand ensures even distribution without overworking the dough.

Mini chocolate chips work best because they allow chocolate flavor in every bite without overpowering the dough. Pistachios add a nutty crunch that complements the soft cookie texture. To learn more about the benefits of pistachios, check out this Wikipedia page on pistachios.

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Step 7: Scoop & Shape the Dough

• Use a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to drop evenly sized portions of dough onto the lined baking sheet.
• Leave about 1½ inches between each cookie, as they will spread slightly during baking.

A cookie scoop ensures uniform cookies, helping them bake evenly. This small detail can make a big difference in the final result!

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Step 8: Bake to Perfection

• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Avoid overbaking—cannoli cookies should remain soft and slightly chewy in the center.

For a perfect batch, keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes. Slight browning on the edges is a sign they’re done. If you want crispier cookies, extend the baking time by 1-2 minutes.

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Step 9: Cool & Dust with Powdered Sugar

• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once cooled, lightly dust with powdered sugar for the classic cannoli finish.

Sprinkling powdered sugar while the cookies are still warm can cause it to melt, so it’s best to wait until they are fully cooled.

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Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Homemade Cannoli Cookies!

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh with a cup of espresso or a glass of milk. They also make a great holiday gift or dessert for special occasions!

Want to try different ways to decorate your cookies? Check out these cookie decorating ideas on Pinterest to add your own creative twist!

Now that you’ve mastered the step-by-step process, let’s go over some common baking mistakes and how to avoid them.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even the best bakers can make mistakes when preparing cannoli cookies. To help you achieve perfect cookies every time, here are some common pitfalls and expert tips on how to avoid them.

1. Using Too Much or Too Little Ricotta

✅ Problem: If you add too much ricotta, your cookies may become too soft and spread too much. If you use too little, they may lack the signature rich and creamy texture.
💡 Solution: Always use ½ cup of full-fat ricotta cheese and drain excess moisture if necessary. The ricotta should be thick, not watery.

2. Overmixing the Dough

✅ Problem: Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can make the cookies dense and tough instead of soft and tender.
💡 Solution: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Once the dry ingredients are added, mix on low speed or by hand to prevent overworking the dough.

3. Incorrect Oven Temperature

✅ Problem: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cookies—they may spread too much, remain raw inside, or brown too quickly on the edges.
💡 Solution: Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. If your cookies are spreading too much, try chilling the dough for 15 minutes before baking.

Want to learn more about achieving the perfect cookie texture? Check out these cookie baking tips on Pinterest.

4. Not Letting the Cookies Cool Properly

✅ Problem: If you dust powdered sugar on warm cookies, it will melt and disappear, leaving you without that classic cannoli-like finish.
💡 Solution: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before dusting them with powdered sugar.

5. Skipping the High-Quality Ingredients

✅ Problem: Using low-quality ricotta, artificial vanilla extract, or low-fat substitutes can affect the flavor and texture of your cookies.
💡 Solution: Use whole-milk ricotta, pure vanilla extract, and high-quality chocolate chips for the best results. For more on ricotta cheese and its benefits in baking, check out this Wikipedia page on ricotta.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure that every batch of cannoli cookies turns out perfectly soft, rich, and flavorful! Up next, let’s explore some creative variations and twists to customize your cookies.

Variations & Creative Twists on Cannoli Cookies

While the classic cannoli cookies recipe is already delicious, there are many ways to put your own spin on them. Whether you want a more indulgent version or a healthier alternative, here are some fun variations to try!

1. Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli Cookies

🍫 For an extra indulgent treat, dip your cookies in melted chocolate!

• Melt dark, milk, or white chocolate in a microwave or double boiler.
• Dip half of each cooled cookie into the chocolate.
• Sprinkle with chopped pistachios or crushed cannoli shells before the chocolate hardens.
• Let them set on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a beautiful, bakery-style look.

Want more inspiration? Check out these Pinterest ideas for decorated cookies.

2. Orange Zest & Almond Flavor Twist

🍊 Add a bright citrusy kick and a nutty depth to your cookies!

• Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
• Add 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a fresh, tangy twist.
• This variation gives a flavor similar to traditional Sicilian cannoli, which often includes citrus zest in the ricotta filling.

3. Gluten-Free & Keto Versions

🌱 Want a low-carb or gluten-free option? Try these modifications!

• Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend.
• Use a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol instead of granulated sugar.
• Swap ricotta cheese for cream cheese to reduce carbs and increase richness.

4. Cannoli Sandwich Cookies

🍪 Double the deliciousness by making sandwich cookies!

• Bake thin, slightly crispy cannoli cookies.
• Spread a layer of sweet ricotta filling (ricotta mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla) between two cookies.
• Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips or crushed pistachios.

For more ideas on Italian dessert flavors, explore this Pinterest collection of Italian dessert recipes.

5. Holiday-Themed Cannoli Cookies

🎄 Customize your cookies for special occasions!

• Add red and green sprinkles for Christmas.
• Mix in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips for a festive twist.
• Drizzle with colored icing for birthdays or themed parties.

These fun variations allow you to personalize your cookies and experiment with different flavors while keeping the essence of traditional cannoli! Next, let’s discuss how to store and freeze your cookies so they stay fresh longer.

How to Store & Freeze Cannoli Cookies

To keep your cannoli cookies fresh and delicious, it’s important to store them properly. Here’s how to ensure they stay soft and flavorful for days—or even weeks!

Storing at Room Temperature

✔ Best for short-term storage (up to 5 days).
✔ Keep cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
✔ Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
✔ Layer cookies with parchment paper if stacking them to prevent sticking.

Refrigerating for Extended Freshness

✔ Best for keeping cookies fresh for up to 1 week.
✔ Place cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
✔ Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing Cannoli Cookies

✔ Best option for long-term storage (up to 3 months).
✔ Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
✔ Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
✔ To thaw, let the cookies sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.

Freezing Cookie Dough for Later Use

✔ Scoop uncooked cookie dough into portions and place on a baking sheet.
✔ Freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer.
✔ When ready to bake, place frozen dough on a lined baking sheet and bake adding 1-2 extra minutes to the normal baking time.

Proper storage ensures your cookies stay soft, flavorful, and just as delicious as when they were first baked! Up next, let’s answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about cannoli cookies.

FAQs About Cannoli Cookies

1. Can I substitute ricotta cheese with something else?

Yes! If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese or cream cheese. Greek yogurt is another option, but it will slightly alter the texture.

2. How do I make cannoli cookies crunchier?

For a crispier texture, try:

• Baking the cookies 2-3 minutes longer for a golden brown finish.
• Using less ricotta cheese (¼ cup instead of ½ cup).
• Reducing the butter slightly for a firmer dough.

3. Why did my cookies turn out flat?

If your cookies spread too much, it may be due to:

• Too much moisture in the ricotta—always drain it before using.
• Butter that is too soft—try chilling the dough for 15 minutes before baking.
• Oven temperature that is too low—ensure it is preheated to 350°F (175°C).

4. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can:

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze the cookie dough and bake fresh when needed.

5. How do I prevent my cookies from becoming dry?

• Don’t overbake! Remove them when the edges are lightly golden.
• Store in an airtight container to retain moisture.
• Add a small slice of bread to the container—the cookies will absorb the moisture from the bread, keeping them soft.

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