Cannoli Cookies
Cannoli cookies are a delicious twist on the classic Italian dessert, cannoli.
These cookies capture the flavors of a traditional cannoli, but in a
convenient and bite-sized form. Made with a crispy cookie shell filled with a
creamy ricotta-based filling, these cookies are a delightful treat that are
perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will explore the history,
ingredients, variations, serving suggestions, and cultural significance of
Cannoli cookies, along with some tips for making them to perfection.
Introduction to Cannoli Cookies
Cannoli cookies are a popular Italian-American dessert that combines the
flavors and textures of a cannoli in a cookie form. These cookies typically
consist of a crispy and slightly sweet cookie shell that is filled with a
creamy and tangy ricotta-based filling. The filling is often flavored with
vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate chips, which give the cookies a rich and
indulgent taste. Cannoli cookies are beloved for their unique flavor profile
and their convenient and portable size, making them a hit at parties,
gatherings, and holiday celebrations.
History and origin of Cannoli Cookies
The history of Cannoli cookies can be traced back to the traditional Italian
dessert, cannoli. Cannoli is a popular Sicilian dessert that dates back to the
9th century, and it has become a staple in Italian cuisine. Cannoli are
typically made with a crispy fried dough shell that is filled with a creamy
ricotta-based filling and often adorned with candied fruit or chocolate chips.
Cannoli cookies are believed to have originated in Italian-American
communities in the United States, where they became a creative variation of
the classic cannoli.
Ingredients and preparation of Cannoli Cookies
Cannoli cookies are made with simple and readily available ingredients that
come together to create a delightful treat. The main components of Cannoli
cookies are the cookie shell and the ricotta-based filling.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of sugar cookie mix
- 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C).
- In a large bowl combine cookie mix, ricotta cheese, chocolate chips,
vanilla extract, olive oil and cinnamon until fully combined. - Roll cookie dough into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking
sheet. - Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire
cooling rack.
Enjoy!
To prepare the cookie shell, a dough is made with flour, sugar, butter,
vanilla extract, and sometimes cocoa powder to give it a slight chocolate
flavor. The dough is then rolled out and cut into circles or ovals, and they
are baked until crispy and golden brown.
The ricotta-based filling is made with ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla
extract, cinnamon, and chocolate chips. The ricotta cheese is typically
drained to remove excess moisture before being mixed with the other
ingredients. The filling is then piped or spooned onto the cooled cookie
shells, and the cookies are often dusted with powdered sugar or garnished with
additional chocolate chips for a decorative touch.
Traditional Variations of Cannoli Cookies
Cannoli cookies can be customized with variations in ingredients and flavors
to suit individual preferences. Here are some traditional variations of
Cannoli cookies:
Chocolate Cannoli Cookies: Some recipes call for the addition of cocoa
powder or melted chocolate to the cookie dough for a more intense chocolate
flavor.
Nutty Cannoli Cookies: Chopped nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, can be
added to the cookie dough or sprinkled on top of the filled cookies for
added crunch and flavor.
Citrus Cannoli Cookies: Lemon or orange zest can be added to the
ricotta-based filling for a burst of citrusy freshness.