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Cannoli Cookies

Cannoli Cookies
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Cannoli Cookies offer a delightful fusion of crispy cookie shells filled with a smooth, creamy ricotta filling, perfectly capturing the essence of traditional Italian cannoli in a fun and shareable cookie form. Easy to prepare with simple pantry staples and customizable with various flavors, these treats are perfect for parties, gifting, or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

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Cookie Shell Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ricotta Filling

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon Marsala wine or fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • Chopped pistachios (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating well after each addition. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt until the dough comes together smoothly but isn’t sticky. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle and to help it bake crisp.
  2. Bake the Cookie Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or the edge of a glass to cut rounds. Shape each round gently into a cannoli form using cannoli tubes or by hand, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and firm. Once cooled, carefully remove the cannoli tubes.
  3. Make the Filling: While the shells cool, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and Marsala wine or orange juice in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips if using. Chill the filling for 15 minutes to thicken.
  4. Assemble the Cannoli Cookies: Spoon or pipe the chilled ricotta filling generously into each cooled cookie shell. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with finely chopped pistachios for garnish. Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to enjoy.

Notes

  • Chill the dough before rolling to prevent it from becoming too soft and sticky.
  • Use room temperature ricotta for a smooth, creamy filling without lumps.
  • Fill cookies just before serving to keep shells crisp and avoid sogginess.
  • Customize fillings by adding chocolate chips, pistachios, or citrus zest to enhance flavors.
  • Use parchment paper on baking sheets to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
  • Handle cookie shells gently when removing tubes and assembling to avoid breakage.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cannoli Cookies, Italian dessert, ricotta filling, crunchy cookie, creamy filling, homemade cookies, party treats

Find it online: https://withnora.com/cannoli-cookies/