Name: Cannoli Cookies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 39 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup mini chocolate chips; 1 cup ricotta cheese; ¾ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional); extra powdered sugar for dusting

Ever wanted the creamy indulgence of a classic Italian cannoli, but in a soft, chewy cookie form? Cannoli Cookies are here to make that dream real. Imagine biting into a cookie packed with mini chocolate chips, powdered sugar, and a luscious ricotta cream center — all the flavor of a bakery cannoli, no frying required.

These cookies are the ultimate fusion dessert: part pastry, part cookie, and completely addictive. They’re perfect for festive gatherings, holiday trays, or anytime you crave a taste of Italy with a twist. Not only do they look bakery-beautiful, but the texture contrast between the soft cookie and creamy filling is what takes them to the next level.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Cannoli Cookies, you don’t need a pastry chef’s kitchen, but having the right tools does make the process smoother and neater:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need separate bowls for the cookie dough and ricotta filling. This keeps textures precise and prevents any mess-ups.
Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Crucial for creaming the butter and sugar properly, and for getting that light texture in the filling.
Cookie Scoop: To ensure uniform cookies that bake evenly and look consistent.
Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: Non-stick and even baking are essential, and parchment helps with easy release and cleanup.
Cooling Rack: Prevents sogginess on the bottom and lets the cookies firm up properly.
Piping Bag or Zip-Top Bag: For filling each cookie cleanly with the ricotta mixture.

Each of these tools helps maintain structure, texture, and presentation—especially important when your cookie hides a creamy surprise inside.

Ingredients for the Cannoli Cookies

Every element of this recipe plays a role in achieving the balance between a classic cookie and the essence of a cannoli:

Butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cookie dough.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookie base without overpowering the ricotta filling.
Egg: Provides structure and moisture, binding the dough together.
Vanilla Extract: A subtle background note that ties the cookie to traditional cannoli flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cookie, offering shape and a soft chew.
Baking Powder: Gives a slight lift, ensuring the cookie isn’t too dense.
Mini Chocolate Chips: A nod to classic cannoli filling, adding texture and chocolate bursts.
Ricotta Cheese: The heart of the filling—smooth, creamy, and mild.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the ricotta filling and dusts the tops for that final cannoli touch.
Orange Zest (optional): Offers brightness and a traditional citrus note, reminiscent of Sicilian cannoli.

How To Make the Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Cream and Combine

In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well blended.

Step 2: Build the Dough

Slowly add the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Fold in the mini chocolate chips to evenly distribute them.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and orange zest (if using). Beat until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a piping or zip-top bag.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Scoop cookie dough into equal portions, flatten slightly, and place a small amount of filling in the center of half the cookies. Top with the remaining dough portions, pinching edges to seal.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden on the edges.

Step 6: Cool and Dust

Let cookies cool on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.

How to Serve and Store Cannoli Cookies

Cannoli Cookies are best served fresh and slightly chilled, giving you the full experience of the creamy center and tender cookie shell. Arrange them on a dessert platter with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a polished look. These are ideal for Italian-themed dinners, cookie swaps, or festive holiday trays.

To store, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the unfilled cookies and the ricotta filling separately. Assemble just before serving to keep that signature texture contrast intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the ricotta filling from being runny?

Make sure to drain the ricotta thoroughly before mixing. Using full-fat ricotta and chilling the filling slightly also helps it hold its shape.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, the dough and filling can be made a day in advance. Keep them chilled and assemble just before baking.

Can I use mascarpone instead of ricotta?

You can, but it will result in a richer, slightly tangier filling. It’s a fun variation for those who enjoy creamier textures.

Do these need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because of the ricotta filling. Store them in a sealed container in the fridge.

Can I skip the orange zest?

Absolutely. The zest adds a classic flavor, but the cookies will still taste delicious without it.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to chill the dough slightly longer to help it hold shape.

Want More Italian Dessert Ideas?

If you love Cannoli Cookies, there’s a whole world of Italian-inspired treats waiting for you to discover.

You might enjoy the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries, a quick bite-sized option that brings creaminess and fruit in one go. If you’re into fusion desserts, the Raspberry Crescent Rolls blend flakiness and tart-sweet flavors beautifully.

For more traditional routes, check out the Italian Ricotta Easter Bread — a stunning centerpiece with a similar ricotta vibe. Or dive into a creamy custard experience with the Creamy Easy Egg Custard Pie Recipe.

And if you’re looking for something crisp with a soft bite, the Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe hits a nostalgic note while still feeling fresh and unique.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you give these Cannoli Cookies a go, I’d love to know how they turned out for you. Did you use the orange zest? Did you try a mascarpone variation? Leave a comment below and share your tweaks. Your feedback always inspires the next recipe.

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