Cannoli Cookies

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Cannoli Cookies are a sweet twist on the classic Italian dessert, bringing all the rich ricotta, chocolate, and citrus flavor of traditional cannoli into a soft, chewy cookie. They’re everything you love about the cannoli—creamy, zesty, and chocolate-studded—wrapped up in a tender bite-sized treat perfect for any celebration.

These cookies are incredibly easy to whip up and don’t require any frying or pastry tubes. Just mix, scoop, bake, and glaze! Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or just want a treat with your coffee, Cannoli Cookies deliver the perfect blend of nostalgic bakery charm and homemade comfort.

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What Kind of Ricotta Should I Use for Cannoli Cookies?

Go for whole milk ricotta cheese for the best flavor and texture. If your ricotta is watery, drain it in a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer for at least an hour before using. You want it thick enough to hold its own in the cookie dough without making it too runny.

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Ingredients for the Cannoli Cookies

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (drained if watery)
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Chopped pistachios or extra mini chocolate chips for garnish (optional)

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How To Make the Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step gives the cookies their soft texture.

Step 2: Add Ricotta and Flavorings

Mix in the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in the flour and baking soda just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips for those classic cannoli pops of flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes until the edges are just golden. Let cool on a wire rack.

Step 6: Glaze and Decorate

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make a glaze. Drizzle or dip the tops of the cooled cookies, then sprinkle with chopped pistachios or more mini chips if desired.

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Serving and Storing Cannoli Cookies

These cookies shine on dessert platters or holiday cookie trays. Their elegant glaze and festive garnish make them a beautiful gift, too.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze baked (unglazed) cookies and glaze after thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to drain the ricotta?

If your ricotta is on the watery side, draining it is a must to avoid runny dough. The thicker the ricotta, the better the texture.

Can I freeze Cannoli Cookies?

Yes! Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature and add the glaze fresh.

Can I use chocolate chunks instead of mini chips?

Mini chips give better distribution, but feel free to use chopped semi-sweet chocolate if that’s what you have.

Can I skip the glaze?

You can, but the glaze adds sweetness and that signature cannoli finish. Even a simple dusting of powdered sugar works if you want something lighter.

What else can I add to the dough?

Chopped pistachios, candied orange peel, or even mini marshmallows for a fun twist.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If Cannoli Cookies made your dessert table shine, try these other playful takes on classic favorites:

• Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies for a pop of holiday color.
• 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies for a healthy option that still satisfies.
• Irresistible Funnel Cake Bites when you want fair-style fun in a bite.
• Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies for no-bake crunch.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake if you love fruit-chocolate combos.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can find it anytime: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

Tried it? Let me know in the comments! Did you add crushed cannoli shells or pistachios on top? Maybe a drizzle of chocolate?

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