Holy Cannoli Cookies

The holidays are all about indulging in delicious treats, and if you’re looking for a festive cookie recipe that combines tradition with a fun twist, look no further than Holy Cannoli Cookies. These delightful cookies are a playful take on the beloved Italian cannoli pastry. With a soft, cake-like texture and loaded with flavors like creamy ricotta, zesty orange, aromatic cinnamon, and a delightful crunch from pistachios, Holy Cannoli Cookies are sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering.

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What makes these cookies so special? Aside from their incredible flavor, they come together in just one bowl, making the preparation process simple and stress-free. They feature a mix of rich, buttery dough, sweet chocolate chips, and the distinct tang of ricotta cheese. These cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a subtle warmth from the cinnamon and a refreshing citrusy zing from the orange zest. And let’s not forget the pistachios—they add a pleasant crunch that complements the creamy filling of ricotta perfectly.

Whether you’re hosting a festive cookie exchange, looking to add something special to your holiday cookie platter, or simply craving a sweet Italian-inspired treat, these Holy Cannoli Cookies are a must-try. With easy preparation and an irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Before you dive into this cookie-making adventure, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to create these delightful Holy Cannoli Cookies.

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): The foundation of your cookie dough, butter provides that rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: The sweetness in the cookies comes from sugar, creating the perfect balance with the tangy ricotta.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs add structure and moisture to the dough, helping it hold together while baking.
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: A key ingredient that imparts the soft, almost cake-like texture to these cookies. It also gives them that signature cannoli flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic addition to any baked good, vanilla enhances the flavors and adds warmth.
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds a comforting, aromatic spice that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest: The zest of an orange provides a fresh, citrusy brightness, lifting the flavors and adding a touch of holiday cheer.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Another leavening agent that works in tandem with the baking powder to ensure the cookies puff up to the right texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the dough and brings all the flavors together.

For the Add-ins:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The bulk of the dough, giving the cookies structure and chewiness.
• 10 ounces mini chocolate chips (divided): The mini chocolate chips provide little bursts of chocolatey goodness in every bite.
• 1 cup chopped pistachios: Pistachios lend both flavor and texture, offering a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the cookie dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through the process of making these Holy Cannoli Cookies. Don’t worry, they are quick and simple to prepare!

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process helps to incorporate air into the dough, giving the cookies their soft, cake-like texture.
2. Add the Eggs and Ricotta
   Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. After the eggs, mix in the ricotta cheese until the dough is smooth. Ricotta is the star ingredient in this recipe, lending a slight tang and moisture to the cookies.
3. Mix in the Flavorings
   Add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and fresh orange zest. The vanilla brings warmth, the cinnamon adds a hint of spice, and the orange zest infuses the dough with a refreshing citrus aroma that fills the air as the cookies bake.
4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.
5. Add the Chocolate and Pistachios
   Stir in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips and the chopped pistachios. These additions add texture, flavor, and those delightful pops of sweetness and nuttiness in every bite.
6. Chill the Dough
   Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the flavor.
7. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheets
   While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to ensure the cookies don’t stick.
8. Scoop and Shape the Cookies
   Using a medium cookie scoop or a spoon, drop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly during baking.
9. Bake the Cookies
   Bake the cookies at 375°F for about 8-11 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. The centers should still be soft, so don’t overbake! Once baked, let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Drizzle with Chocolate
    For the finishing touch, melt the remaining chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. Transfer the melted chocolate to a small resealable bag, clip a corner, and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a beautiful and indulgent finish.

Tips for Perfect Holy Cannoli Cookies

• Chocolate Chips: Some brands of chocolate chips melt better than others. If you want a smoother drizzle, opt for a semisweet or dark chocolate bar instead of chips.
• Storage: These cookies don’t require refrigeration after baking. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay soft and fresh, perfect for snacking or sharing!
• Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts and chocolate. Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can replace pistachios, and you can use milk chocolate chips instead of mini dark chocolate ones for a sweeter flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect for any occasion, but they’re especially great during the holiday season. Serve them on a festive cookie platter alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, sugar cookies, and fudge. You can also pair them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine.

For a special touch, try serving these cookies with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious Italian-inspired dessert.

Conclusion

Holy Cannoli Cookies are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that brings a bit of Italy to your holiday table. With their soft, cake-like texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you’re making them for a cookie exchange, sharing with friends and family, or simply indulging in a sweet moment for yourself, these cookies are a fun and delicious twist on a classic Italian pastry. Try them today, and bring a little taste of Italy into your kitchen!