Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender cookie texture.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract and ricotta cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps of ricotta remain.
Pro Tip: If the batter feels too thick, add a splash of milk (about 1â2 tablespoons) to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and airy.
5. Fold in Optional Add-Ins
If using chocolate chips, crushed cannoli shells, or cinnamon, fold them into the dough now. Mix gently to ensure even distribution without deflating the batter.
6. Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon.
7. Bake Until Golden
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12â15 minutes , or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even cooking.
8. Cool and Dust
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar for that signature cannoli look.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ricotta : High-quality ricotta ensures the best flavor and creaminess in the cookies.
- Donât Overbake : Underbaked cookies are softer and chewierâcheck them earlier if using smaller portions.
- Make It Festive : Add pastel-colored sprinkles or drizzle with white chocolate for a fun twist.
- Store Properly : Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
These Cannoli Cookies are more than just dessertâtheyâre a slice of Italy in every bite. With their soft texture, creamy ricotta filling, and customizable toppings, theyâre guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor these delightful creations! Donât forget to share your results with us in the comments belowâweâd love to see how they turned out.
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our other articles for more dessert inspiration and easy cooking ideas. Happy baking, and rememberâlifeâs too short not to indulge in something sweet now and then! đ´â¨
