Irresistible Cannoli Cookies Recipe : An Italian Sweet Snack for Every Occasion

Posted on October 10, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

delicious italian cannoli cookies with chocolate drizzled on top are stacked up in front of a christmas tree

If you adore the classic flavor of Italian cannoli but want a quicker, bite-sized way to enjoy it, this Cannoli Cookies Recipe is the perfect treat. These cookies capture the essence of traditional Sicilian cannoli — creamy ricotta, zesty orange, sweet chocolate chips, and the crunch of pistachios — all baked into a soft, chewy cookie that’s impossible to resist.

Whether you’re looking for a dessert to go with Italian food, something festive for your next holiday gathering, or a sweet snack to gift to friends, these cookies check every box. They’re rich in flavor, melt-in-your-mouth soft, and carry that unmistakable Italian flair.

If you love recipes that balance elegance and simplicity, you might also enjoy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies or Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles — both are perfect complements for any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love These Italian Cannoli Cookies

These cookies are the perfect marriage between the traditional cannoli and a buttery Italian cookie. They’re a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of Sicily in one easy-to-make recipe.

Here’s why this Cannoli Cookies Recipe deserves a spot in your baking lineup:

  • Authentic flavor: Sweet ricotta, mini chocolate chips, and chopped pistachios deliver classic cannoli flavor.
  • Easy and mess-free: No shells to fry or fill — just mix, bake, and enjoy.
  • Perfect for holidays: Great for Xmas bakes, cookie exchanges, or festive dessert platters.
  • Versatile: Can be decorated, dipped, or filled depending on the occasion.

If you enjoy Italian sweets, these cookies pair beautifully with Apple Crisp With Oatmeal for a warm, comforting dessert spread.

Ingredients for the Best Cannoli Cookies

This recipe uses simple ingredients that deliver luxurious flavor and texture.

  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
  • 1 cup (240 g) whole milk ricotta cheese (drained if watery)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup chopped pistachios (plus more for garnish)
  • Optional: 1 tsp orange zest or a splash of almond extract for that signature Sicilian twist

These ingredients mirror the core of authentic Sicilian recipes desserts, giving every bite that nostalgic flavor Italy is known for.

Equipment You’ll Need

To make these cookies, you’ll need:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheets lined with parchment paper
  • Cookie scoop
  • Cooling rack

You might also use a fine-mesh strainer to drain ricotta, which ensures your dough stays light and fluffy.

For more cookie-baking inspiration, check out these cozy Pumpkin Brownies — another easy and festive bake!

How To Make Cannoli Cookies (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the ricotta cheese until smooth, then add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.

Step 4: Add the Cannoli Fillings

Fold in mini chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, and orange zest (if using).

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 6: Cool and Garnish

Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, sprinkle extra pistachios on top or dust with powdered sugar for a bakery-style look.

Just like in Pumpkin Twists, the magic is in the finishing touches — these little details make your cookies unforgettable.

  • Use whole milk ricotta: It provides a creamier texture. Avoid low-fat versions that are too watery.
  • Drain the ricotta properly: Moist ricotta will make cookies spread too much.
  • Don’t overmix the dough: Mix only until the flour is incorporated to keep the cookies tender.
  • Chill before baking: Refrigerate the dough for 15–20 minutes for thicker, softer cookies.
  • Add a citrus twist: A little orange zest adds brightness and complements the creamy ricotta flavor.

For another soft, indulgent cookie idea, explore Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies — they share a similar creamy, melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Cannoli Cookies

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your cookies turn out bakery-perfect:

  • Not draining ricotta: Too much moisture will lead to flat, soggy cookies.
  • Skipping parchment paper: It prevents over-browning and sticking.
  • Overbaking: Remove them once the edges turn light golden — they’ll firm up as they cool.
  • Adding too many mix-ins: Too many chips or nuts can weigh down the dough.

These tips are just as helpful when making other delicate desserts like Mini Pumpkin Bread With Cinnamon Swirl.

Serving Ideas: Dessert To Go With Italian Food

Cannoli cookies are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of Italian-inspired meals. Serve them:

  • With espresso or cappuccino for an afternoon pick-me-up
  • After pasta dishes like lasagna or baked ziti
  • Alongside gelato or a creamy tiramisu
  • On a dessert tray next to biscotti, amaretti, or other Italian layered cookies

For a lighter pairing, try serving them with a chilled glass of Lavender Lemonade for a refreshing, non-alcoholic contrast.

Variations: Christmas Cannoli Cookies & Layered Italian Cookies

These cookies are endlessly adaptable — perfect for the holiday season or special occasions.

  • Christmas Cannoli Cookies: Add festive sprinkles or dip half of each cookie in melted white chocolate and crushed pistachios for a holiday touch.
  • Italian Layered Cookies: Sandwich two cookies together with sweetened ricotta or mascarpone filling for a mini cannoli-style dessert.
  • Chocolate Cannoli Cookies: Mix cocoa powder into the dough for a deeper, chocolatey flavor.
  • Gluten-free version: Substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

These creative versions make fantastic cookies Christmas recipes, ideal for gifting or holiday dessert tables.

How To Store and Freeze Cannoli Cookies

These cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for make-ahead treats.

  • Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week for extended freshness.
  • Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Re-crisping tip: Warm cookies in the oven at 300°F for 3–5 minutes to restore texture.

Perfect Pairings: Drinks and Sweet Companions

Pair your cannoli cookies with these delightful beverages and snacks for a complete Italian-inspired dessert moment:

  • Hot chocolate topped with whipped cream
  • Freshly brewed espresso or cappuccino
  • Sweet herbal teas like chamomile or lemon balm
  • Light fruit desserts such as Apple Crisp With Oatmeal
  • Italian almond biscotti for texture contrast

These combinations turn a simple cookie into a full dessert experience.

Sicilian Dessert Inspiration: More Italian Sweet Snacks

Cannoli cookies are deeply inspired by Sicilian recipes desserts, known for their balance of richness and brightness. Explore more Italian-inspired bakes for your next kitchen adventure:

These recipes share the same heartwarming essence that makes Italian sweets so beloved around the world.

FAQs About Cannoli Cookies

What kind of ricotta should I use?
Whole milk ricotta is best for a rich, creamy texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I skip the pistachios?
Absolutely. Replace with almonds or leave them out for a nut-free version.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Do they need to be refrigerated?
They can be stored at room temperature if eaten within a few days, but refrigeration helps them last longer.

These Italian Cannoli Cookies capture everything we love about Italian desserts — simplicity, elegance, and soul-warming flavor. Each cookie offers a delightful mix of creamy ricotta, crunchy pistachios, and chocolate chips that pay homage to traditional Sicilian baking.

They’re perfect for holidays, bake sales, or an after-dinner dessert to go with Italian food. Whether enjoyed with a morning espresso or as part of your Christmas cookie spread, they bring the magic of Italy right to your kitchen.

For another festive idea, check out the Halloween-ready Halloween Brownie for a fun, chocolatey twist on seasonal baking.

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The Best Cannoli Cookies Recipe – Irresistible Italian Sweet Snack for Every Occasion


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 34 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Description

Cannoli Cookies are a delightful Italian-inspired treat that combines the rich flavors of ricotta, orange zest, and chocolate chips into a soft, chewy cookie. They capture the essence of classic Sicilian cannoli without the need for pastry shells or frying. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a cozy coffee break, these cookies bring the sweetness of Italy right to your kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale
    • For the Cookie Dough:
    • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
    • ½ teaspoon baking powder
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
    • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
    • 1 large egg
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ½ teaspoon almond extract
    • 1 teaspoon orange zest
    • ½ cup (120g) ricotta cheese, well-drained
    • ½ cup mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios

 

    • For Decoration:
    • Powdered sugar, for dusting
    • Melted dark chocolate, for drizzling (optional)

 

  • Optional Cannoli Cream Filling:
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: In one bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In another, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, almond extract, and orange zest; mix well.
  2. Add ricotta and mix-ins: Fold in ricotta until smooth, then gradually add dry ingredients. Mix until combined. Stir in mini chocolate chips or pistachios.
  3. Chill the dough: Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to prevent spreading and enhance flavor.
  4. Bake the cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until edges turn light golden.
  5. Cool and decorate: Let cookies cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
  6. Optional filling: Combine ricotta, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and chocolate chips. Chill for 15 minutes, then sandwich between two cookies for cannoli-style treats.

Notes

  • Always drain ricotta well to prevent soggy cookies.
  • Chill the dough for the perfect texture and shape.
  • Use fresh orange zest for authentic Sicilian flavor.
  • Don’t overbake—cookies should stay soft in the center.
  • For a festive touch, drizzle with white chocolate and sprinkle crushed pistachios on top.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 14 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Cookies, Italian Recipes
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Cannoli Cookies, Italian Desserts, Ricotta Cookies, Sicilian Cookies, Italian Sweet Snacks, Christmas Cookies, Italian Baking Recipes, Easy Cannoli Cookies

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