If you’re anything like me, you probably grew up watching your family fuss over trays of homemade cookies every holiday season. The one cookie that always disappeared first? Cannoli cookies. They bring all the rich, creamy, citrusy magic of the traditional Italian pastry into a soft, chewy cookie — and believe me, that’s a holiday miracle. I remember my Nonna rolling out cannoli dough while I sneakily licked ricotta off a spoon nearby. These cookies capture that same joy, but with less fuss and more flavor.
This Cannoli Cookies Recipe is packed with mini chocolate chips, ricotta cheese, a hint of orange zest, and that irresistible crunch from crushed cannoli shells. And yes — we’re even weaving in some inspiration from the ever-popular Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread to bring festive flair to your baking tray.
Ready to make a dessert that’ll outshine even your gooiest brownie? Let’s bake up some magic.
The Cannoli Cookie Craze Is Real
The Sweet Origins of Cannoli-Inspired Cookies
It’s no surprise that cannoli cookies have carved out a space in dessert lovers’ hearts. Rooted in Sicilian tradition, classic cannoli are deep-fried shells filled with sweet ricotta cream. This cookie version simplifies the process without compromising flavor — perfect for busy bakers during the holidays or just because.
As the obsession with holiday-themed treats grows (just look at the viral Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread trend), so does the demand for creative twists. These cookies honor tradition while baking up fast in a modern oven. No frying, no piping — just mix, scoop, and bake.
While testing this recipe alongside our popular Strawberry Santa Recipe and the indulgent Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles, the results were unanimous — cannoli cookies won every time.
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Cannoli Cookies Recipe: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Treat
These Cannoli Cookies are chewy, soft, and packed with ricotta, chocolate chips, and orange zest—like the classic Italian treat in cookie form.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta (well drained)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 tsp orange zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup crushed cannoli shells (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheet with parchment.
- In a bowl, beat ricotta, butter, sugars, egg, zest, and vanilla until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry into wet ingredients until combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and chill dough for 30 minutes.
- Use a cookie scoop to form balls and place on tray with 2-inch spacing.
- Top with crushed cannoli shell pieces if desired.
- Bake 11–13 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on rack and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Drain ricotta overnight for best results.
- Chilling dough helps cookies keep shape.
- Freeze dough or baked cookies for up to 2 months.
What Makes This Recipe a Standout
The game-changer? Ricotta. Using it in cookie dough creates a rich, moist texture that traditional butter-only cookies can’t achieve. When combined with orange zest and mini chocolate chips, each bite delivers that nostalgic cannoli flavor you know and love.
And let’s not forget the magic of crunchy cannoli shell crumbs on top — a nod to the golden finish of Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread. It’s festive. It’s fabulous. It’s cookie perfection.
Pair these cookies with Cranberry Roast Beef at your next holiday gathering, or keep them stashed for your midnight snack stash. Either way, they’ll steal the show.
Crafting the Perfect Dough
Choosing the Right Ricotta for the Job
Not all ricotta is created equal. For the best cannoli cookies recipe, opt for whole milk ricotta with minimal moisture. Too much water content can make your dough soft and spread too much during baking.
Drain your ricotta overnight using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for ideal results. This small step makes a huge difference, just like letting your Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread dough rest before baking enhances flavor.
Much like our tested Cheesy Ranch Chex Mix Recipe or the Christmas Salmon Holiday Recipe, preparation makes the dish.
Balancing Citrus, Sweet, and Spice
A hint of orange zest and cinnamon elevate the flavor without overwhelming. Skip artificial extracts — real zest gives depth and brightness. For sweetness, use a mix of granulated sugar and a touch of powdered sugar to create that soft, almost cake-like crumb.
Don’t be afraid to experiment here. You might’ve seen similar layering of flavors in our Homemade Chex Mix Oven Slow Cooker recipe. That same balance of sweet and savory drives incredible cookie flavor — and yes, it’s even better than your last Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread moment.
Baking Like a Pro (Without the Stress)
Tips for Even Scooping and Spacing
Use a medium cookie scoop to portion out your dough evenly — this ensures uniform baking and that iconic round shape. Spacing is just as crucial. Keep at least 2 inches between cookies to avoid merging, which we all know can ruin presentation.
The dough is sticky, so chill it for at least 30 minutes. That step is as essential as buttering your pan for Puppy Chow Chex Mix. It also helps those beautiful domed tops form — giving your cannoli cookies that bakery-worthy look.
Much like stacking ingredients in a Buttery Croissant Strata, precision counts in baking.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake at 350°F for 11–13 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers are still soft. They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake.
Rotate pans halfway through for even heat distribution — a trick that works wonders whether you’re baking cookies or your next Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread.
Once they’ve cooled slightly, sprinkle extra cannoli shell crumbs and powdered sugar. You’re not just baking cookies — you’re staging a dessert moment.
The Finishing Touches That Make Them Unforgettable
Decorating for Holidays and Beyond
You can take these cannoli cookies next level with drizzle toppings — melted chocolate or white chocolate work great. Want festive flair? Add crushed pistachios or red and green sprinkles to match the vibe of a Crispy Baked Eggplant side dish or the colorful Spring Roll Salad from your dinner spread.
And yes, the bold spirit of Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread can totally be mirrored here. Make a wreath shape with cookies, place a bow on your tray, and boom — dessert centerpiece.
Storing and Freezing Tips
Store cannoli cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days. For longer freshness, freeze them in layers with parchment between. Let thaw at room temp before serving.
Much like keeping your Blackstone Griddle Hibachi Chicken prepped or your Zesty Italian Pasta Salad ready for guests, storage prep saves the day — especially during the holidays.
Even after freezing, they retain that perfect chew and soft center. One bite and you’ll understand why they’re as addicting as Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread.
Serving Up the Final Words
This Cannoli Cookies Recipe is more than just a sweet snack — it’s a delicious nod to tradition with a modern twist that fits beautifully into any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday dinner or whipping up a batch just because, these cookies never fail to bring smiles (and empty trays).
From the rich ricotta base to the delightful bursts of orange zest and chocolate chips, every bite captures that nostalgic, comforting feeling. The playful crunch of cannoli shell on top? That’s your cookie crown. And when you present these cookies next to a warm dish of Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread, you’ve got the ultimate spread — festive, flavorful, and unforgettable.
Want more crowd-pleasing recipes? Try pairing these cookies with our Taco Rice Bowl with Doritos or the savory Sticky Honey Chicken to balance sweet and savory. Or finish your brunch table with Grilled Shrimp Tostadas and a batch of these cookies — your guests will think you hired a personal chef.
Like Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread, these cookies are festive, easy, and wildly addictive. So tie on your apron and let’s make baking magic a year-round thing.
FAQs About Cannoli Cookies Recipe
How do you keep cannoli cookies from becoming soggy?
Use well-drained ricotta cheese and store cookies in an airtight container. Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent too much moisture release.
Can you freeze cannoli cookies?
Yes, freeze them in a single layer, then stack with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature. They’ll taste fresh for up to 2 months.
What are the best toppings for cannoli cookies?
Powdered sugar, mini chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, or white chocolate drizzle work well. Crushed cannoli shells add authentic crunch.
Can I make cannoli cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure cannoli shells used for topping are also gluten-free for consistency.
