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Cannoli Cookies – Crispy, Creamy & Irresistibly Sicilian!

These Cannoli Cookies bring the beloved flavor of classic cannoli into an easy, soft cookie form. They’re tender on the inside, lightly crisp at the edges, and filled with creamy ricotta richness. Each bite delivers a hint of cinnamon warmth, sweet vanilla, and tiny chocolate chips reminiscent of authentic Sicilian cannoli filling. Unlike traditional cannoli, there’s no frying, no pastry shells, and no complicated steps — just a soft cookie dough that bakes beautifully in minutes. These cookies are elegant enough for holidays and gatherings, but easy enough for everyday baking. If you love cozy Italian desserts with gentle sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are going to be your new staple treat.
Prep Time 10 minutes
bake time 13 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 20 cookies

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese full-fat for best texture
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ¼ teaspoons cinnamon
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter & Sugars
  1. Beat together butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar for 2–3 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Ricotta, Egg & Vanilla
  1. Mix in the ricotta, egg, and vanilla extract until creamy and well blended.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  2. flour
  3. baking powder
  4. salt
  5. cinnamon
Step 5: Form the Dough
  1. Add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
  2. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently with a spatula.
Step 6: Scoop & Bake
  1. Scoop dough into rounded tablespoons and place on baking sheet.
  2. Bake 10–13 minutes, until edges are lightly set and centers stay soft (do not overbake).
Step 7: Cool
  1. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to cooling rack.

Notes

🧊 Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Refrigerate for the softest, cannoli-like texture.
Freeze baked cookies up to 3 months.
🥄 Variations
Lemon Zest Brightness:
Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough.
Chocolate Dip:
Dip cooled cookies halfway in melted chocolate.
Pistachio Finish:
Sprinkle finely chopped pistachios on warm cookies.
Holiday Spice:
Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm bakery depth.
Powdered Sugar Dusting:
Light dusting after baking gives a true cannoli look.
❓ 10 FAQs
Does the ricotta need to be drained?
Only if it's very wet — lightly blot with a paper towel if needed.
Can I use part-skim ricotta?
Yes, but full-fat gives the softest texture.
Can I use regular chocolate chips?
Mini chips work best for even distribution.
Why are my cookies flat?
Butter may have been too soft — chill dough 10 minutes.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes — scoop into balls and freeze, then bake from frozen.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes — use a cup-for-cup GF flour blend.
Are these very sweet?
No — they have a gentle, balanced sweetness.
How do I keep them soft?
Store in an airtight container, never uncovered.
Can I add orange zest?
Yes — adds authentic Italian pastry flavor.
Are these good for gifting?
Yes — they hold shape and stay soft for days.
🏁 Conclusion
These Cannoli Cookies are soft, creamy, sweet, and full of cozy Sicilian flavor. A sprinkle of cinnamon, melt-in-your-mouth ricotta texture, and chocolate chips turn every bite into a warm and delightful treat — no pastry shell needed.
Soft. Sweet. Classic Italian charm.
A cookie that feels like home.