If you love cannoli, you’re in for a treat! These Cannoli Cookies bring all the flavors of the beloved Italian pastry—sweet ricotta, warm cinnamon, mini chocolate chips, and crunchy pistachios—into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie.
They’re light, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious, with a subtle richness from ricotta cheese and just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, they’re super easy to make, so you can enjoy the flavors of a classic cannoli without the hassle of frying!
Let’s get baking! 🥄✨
Why You’ll Love These Cannoli Cookies
✔️ Soft & Fluffy – Thanks to ricotta cheese, these cookies have an ultra-soft, almost cake-like texture.
✔️ Easy to Make – No rolling, frying, or filling—just mix, scoop, and bake!
✔️ Perfectly Spiced – A hint of cinnamon gives them that signature cannoli flavor.
✔️ Chocolate & Pistachio Delight – The combo of mini chocolate chips and crunchy pistachios makes every bite irresistible.
✔️ Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for holidays, tea time, or as an everyday sweet treat!
What Do Cannoli Cookies Taste Like?
These cookies are like a cross between a soft sugar cookie and classic cannoli filling. They have a delicate sweetness, a buttery texture, and just the right amount of crunch from chocolate chips and pistachios. The cinnamon and almond extract add a warm, nutty depth of flavor that makes them truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
🍬 3/4 cup granulated sugar – For the perfect level of sweetness.
🥚 1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients.
🌿 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For that classic warm flavor.
🌰 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional) – Adds a subtle nutty aroma, just like traditional cannoli.
🧀 1/2 cup ricotta cheese – The secret ingredient for a soft and tender texture!
🌾 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – Gives the cookies structure.
🧁 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps them rise beautifully.
🧂 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
🍂 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – A signature cannoli spice.
🍫 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips – For melty, chocolatey goodness in every bite.
🥜 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional) – Adds a little crunch and nuttiness.
🍚 Powdered sugar for dusting – The finishing touch for a bakery-style look!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
✔ Mixing bowls
✔ Hand or stand mixer
✔ Measuring cups and spoons
✔ Spatula
✔ Baking sheet
✔ Parchment paper
✔ Cookie scoop (or spoon)
How to Make Cannoli Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). This step helps create that soft texture.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and ricotta cheese. Beat until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips & Pistachios
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios (if using). This ensures even distribution without overmixing.
Step 7: Scoop & Bake
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops look set.
Step 8: 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, dust with powdered sugar for that classic cannoli look!
Serving Suggestions
🍵 With Coffee or Tea – Perfect for dipping!
🍨 Alongside Ice Cream – Serve with vanilla or pistachio ice cream for a decadent dessert.
🎁 As a Gift – Pack them in a decorative tin for a thoughtful homemade gift!
Tips for the Best Cannoli Cookies
✔ Use Whole Milk Ricotta – It gives the cookies the best texture and flavor.
✔ Don’t Overmix – Stir just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
✔ Chill the Dough (Optional) – If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps enhance the flavors.
✔ Want Extra Crunch? – Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top before baking.
✔ For an Extra Cannoli Touch – Add a dash of orange zest to the dough for a hint of citrus!
Storage & Freezing Instructions
🧊 To Store: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
❄️ To Freeze: Freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
🔥 To Refresh: Warm them in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes to bring back their fresh-baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use mascarpone instead of ricotta?
You can, but the texture will be a little different. Mascarpone is richer, so the cookies might be slightly denser.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and they should turn out great.
What’s the best substitute for pistachios?
If you’re not a fan of pistachios, you can use chopped almonds, walnuts, or leave the nuts out completely.
Can I add ricotta frosting on top?
Absolutely! You can mix ricotta with powdered sugar and vanilla for a light, creamy topping.
Final Thoughts: A Cookie That Tastes Like Cannoli!
These Cannoli Cookies are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of traditional cannoli in an easy, no-fuss cookie form! They’re soft, sweet, and packed with chocolate chips, cinnamon, and pistachios—a true delight for any occasion.
If you try this recipe, leave a review and let me know how they turned out! And don’t forget to pin this on Pinterest so you can make them again!
📌 Craving more Italian-inspired treats? Try these next:
🍋 Lemon Ricotta Cookies
🍪 Italian Wedding Cookies
🎂 Tiramisu Cupcakes
Happy baking! 🍪✨
