The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe

If you’ve been searching high and low for a dessert that combines crisp, delicate shells with a luscious, creamy filling, then you’ve hit the jackpot with The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe. This recipe delivers everything you crave in a treat—light, crunchy cookie shells paired with a dreamy, sweet ricotta filling bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cannoli cookies are guaranteed to impress and delight anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Texture Balance: The crisp shell contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy filling for a delightful bite every time.
• Authentic Italian Flavor: This recipe captures the essence of traditional cannoli with hints of citrus and cinnamon.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples you probably already have, making it easy to whip up in no time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The shells can be prepared in advance and stored, so you can fill them just before serving.
• Customizable Filling: Loads of options for mixing in chocolate chips, nuts, or even fruit—you’re in charge of your cannoli’s personality!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe means grabbing ingredients that are simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect cookie shell crunch and luscious filling.

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the sturdy, crisp base of the cannoli shell.
• White Sugar: Adds delicate sweetness to the dough and filling, balancing out the flavors.
• Butter: Provides richness and flakiness to the shells for that irresistible texture.
• Whole Milk Ricotta: The heart of the creamy cannoli filling, delivering smoothness and tang.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the filling’s flavor.
• Cinnamon and Orange Zest: Traditional flavor enhancers that brighten and complement the ricotta.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling without graininess.
• Mini Chocolate Chips (optional): For a delightful texture contrast in the filling.
• Egg: Helps bind the dough and adds structure.
• Vegetable Oil (for frying): Ensures perfect golden and crisp shells.

Variations for The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe

Feel free to make this recipe your own! The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe is incredibly adaptable, whether you want to tweak flavors, cater to dietary needs, or simply experiment with fun add-ins.

• Chocolate Shells: Add cocoa powder into the dough to create a rich, chocolaty twist on the classic shell.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative without the gluten.
• Nutty Filling: Stir in finely chopped pistachios or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
• Fruit-Infused Filling: Mix in small bits of dried cherries or candied orange peel for a burst of brightness.
• Ricotta and Mascarpone Mix: Swap half of the ricotta with mascarpone for an even creamier texture.

How to Make The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon in a large bowl. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Whisk the egg with a bit of orange zest and then add to the flour mixture. Knead gently to form a smooth dough, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least an hour. This resting helps the dough relax and makes rolling easier.

Step 2: Roll and Shape the Shells

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out very thin—about an eighth of an inch. Use a circle cutter or a glass to cut out rounds approximately 4 inches in diameter. Wrap each round around a cannoli tube or a similar metal form, sealing the edges with a dab of egg white. This step ensures your shells keep their classic tube shape during frying.

Step 3: Fry the Shells

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the wrapped dough rounds in batches until golden and crisp, around 2 minutes per side. Carefully remove and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, gently slide the shells off the molds. This frying method guarantees that iconic light crunch you want.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and an optional pinch of cinnamon. Stir until smooth and creamy. For extra flair, fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts. Chill the filling until it’s firm enough to pipe.

Step 5: Assemble the Cannoli Cookies

Using a piping bag or a small spoon, fill each shell generously with the ricotta mixture just before serving. Avoid filling too early to keep the shells crunchy. Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with chopped pistachios for an eye-catching finish.

Pro Tips for Making The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe

• Chill Your Dough: Don’t skip the resting time for the dough; it prevents shrinkage while frying.
• Use Proper Oil Temperature: Keep the frying oil between 350°F and 365°F to avoid soggy or burnt shells.
• Fill Just Before Serving: To maintain shell crispness, fill the cookies right before you serve them.
• Strain Your Ricotta: Drain ricotta thoroughly overnight in a fine sieve to avoid a watery filling.
• Handle Shells Gently: The delicate shells can crack if stressed, so be mindful when removing from molds and filling.

How to Serve The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped pistachios, mini chocolate chips, or candied orange peel on top of the filling for an added burst of flavor and texture. A light dusting of powdered sugar also adds elegance and sweetness.

Side Dishes

Serve your cannoli cookies alongside a rich espresso, cappuccino, or sweet dessert wine like Moscato to complement their flavors. Fresh berries or a simple mixed fruit salad can add refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cannoli cookies on a decorative platter lined with parchment paper. For parties, place each cookie in an individual cupcake liner or garnish with edible flowers for a stunning display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover unfilled shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to preserve their crispness. Store the filling separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze cannoli shells in an airtight container for up to a month. When ready to use, thaw them at room temperature, then fill just before serving. The filling can also be frozen but may require stirring after thawing to restore texture.

Reheating

Reheat shells briefly in a warm oven at 300°F for 5 minutes if they lose some crispness. Do not microwave, as this will make them chewy. Always refill after reheating to maintain texture balance.

FAQs

Can I bake the shells instead of frying them?

While frying creates the traditional crispness and color, you can bake the shells for a lighter version by brushing them lightly with oil and baking at 375°F until golden, but expect a slightly different texture.

How long can I store filled cannoli cookies?

Because of the moist filling, cannoli cookies are best eaten within a few hours after filling to avoid soggy shells. If you must store them, keep them refrigerated and consume within one day.

Can I make cannoli shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and the shells fried up to a week in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to fill.

Is ricotta the only filling option?

While ricotta is traditional, you can experiment with mascarpone, cream cheese, or mixtures of these for different textures and flavors. Sweetened mascarpone adds extra richness.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap out the ricotta with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use vegan butter for the dough. The taste and texture will vary, but it can still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

You’ve got everything you need to wow your friends and family with The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe—crispy, golden shells filled with smooth, sweet ricotta goodness. Whether you’re treating yourself or looking to impress at your next gathering, this recipe is a sweet, satisfying way to celebrate the flavors of Italy at home. Give it a try today and watch those smiles grow with each delectable bite!

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