Name: Cannoli Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: PT-491147H38M22S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained); 1 stick unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips; Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Cannoli cookies take the best part of a traditional Italian cannoli and wrap it into a chewy, sweet cookie that’s filled with rich ricotta, mini chocolate chips, and a hint of citrus. These cookies are an unexpected twist that capture the nostalgic flavor of the classic pastry, yet they’re easy enough to whip up for any celebration or cozy night in.

What makes these cookies stand out is their texture. The combination of creamy ricotta and buttery dough creates a soft, almost cake-like center, with mini chocolate chips scattered throughout for a little crunch and bittersweet contrast. A dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds that final touch of elegance.

They taste like cannoli, but with half the effort. No deep frying, no piping shells. These cookies are great for the holidays, brunch tables, or gifting. They also freeze beautifully, so you can make them ahead. The bright flavor from orange zest and the creamy center from the ricotta offer a delicious surprise in every bite.

Do I Need to Drain the Ricotta First?

Yes, and it’s an important step. Draining the ricotta removes excess moisture, which keeps your cookies from spreading too much or becoming soggy. You can place it in a fine mesh strainer or wrap it in cheesecloth and set it over a bowl in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Ingredients for the Cannoli Cookies

Cannoli cookies use simple ingredients, but each plays a key role in delivering flavor and texture. Start with quality ingredients for the best result.

Ricotta cheese
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Egg
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Vanilla extract
Orange zest
Mini chocolate chips
Powdered sugar

The ricotta cheese brings creaminess, while the unsalted butter ensures richness. Sugar sweetens and helps with structure, and the egg binds everything. Flour, baking powder, and salt give your cookies body and lift. Vanilla and orange zest brighten the flavor. Don’t skip the mini chocolate chips; they mimic the chocolate cannoli tips perfectly. A light powdered sugar dusting is the final touch.

How To Make the Cannoli Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Ricotta and Butter

In a large bowl, beat together the drained ricotta and butter until smooth and fluffy. This step is key to creating that signature soft texture.

Step 2: Add Sugar and Egg

Beat in the granulated sugar, then the egg, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Flavor and Fold

Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest. Then fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips so they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

Step 6: Bake

Scoop onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 12–14 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers look puffed.

Step 7: Cool and Dust

Let the cookies cool, then dust with powdered sugar right before serving.

How to Serve and Store Cannoli Cookies

These cookies are best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. Their soft, creamy texture gets even better after a few hours. You can make them ahead and keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They also freeze well; just layer them between parchment in a freezer-safe container.

This batch makes about 24 cookies, which is perfect for sharing or snacking throughout the week.

What to Serve With Cannoli Cookies?

Espresso or Strong Coffee

The boldness of coffee balances the sweet richness of the cookies.

Lemon Curd

A dollop on the side brings a tart note that complements the ricotta.

Pistachio Gelato

It adds a creamy, nutty pairing that feels true to the Italian roots.

Fresh Berries

They brighten the plate and add a pop of color and natural sweetness.

Dessert Wine

A small glass of Moscato or Vin Santo is lovely with cannoli cookies.

Mascarpone Whipped Cream

If you want to make a dessert board, this is a perfect spreadable pairing.

Chopped Roasted Pistachios

Sprinkle over the cookies or the serving plate for crunch and color.

If you love these cannoli cookies, you might also enjoy these deliciously creative cookie recipes from the blog:

Whimsical Cotton Candy Cookies Delight for a playful flavor combo.
White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles if you love citrusy sweets.
Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies for a gooey, buttery experience.
Brown Sugar Maple Cookies for cozy, warm cookie bites.
Peanut Butter Cowboy Cookies when you crave texture and crunch.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add chopped nuts or skip the chocolate chips? Did you go for orange zest or try lemon?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more dessert inspiration on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Cannoli cookies are an easy yet show-stopping way to bring the charm of Italian pastry into your cookie jar. They’re creamy, lightly citrusy, and studded with chocolate. Whether you’re hosting or just craving something cozy and unique, these cookies will leave a sweet impression.