Some desserts are more than just sweets—they’re a celebration of flavor, creativity, and the joy of sharing something delightful with loved ones. Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies are one such treat. These cookies combine the classic flavors of a cannoli—creamy ricotta, rich chocolate, and a hint of citrus—with the comforting appeal of a chocolate chip cookie. Imagine soft, chewy cookies studded with chocolate chips and dotted with creamy ricotta, then finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet approachable, whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, a dinner party, or just enjoying it with a cup of coffee on a lazy afternoon.

The first time I made these cookies, it was for a friend’s birthday. She’s a huge fan of cannoli, and I wanted to surprise her with a unique twist on her favorite dessert. As I mixed the dough, the aroma of vanilla and citrus filled the kitchen. When I pulled the cookies out of the oven, they were golden and slightly puffed, with gooey chocolate chips peeking through. “What are these?” she asked, eyeing the cookies curiously. After one bite, her face lit up. “These taste just like cannoli, but in cookie form! You’ve outdone yourself,” she said, reaching for another. Since then, Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies have become a favorite in my baking repertoire.

The first time I served these cookies to my family, it was during a weekend baking session. My kids, who are always eager to help in the kitchen, were fascinated by the addition of ricotta to the dough. “Why are we putting cheese in cookies?” my son asked, skeptically. But after one bite, his skepticism vanished. “These are the best cookies ever!” he declared, grabbing another. Even my husband, who’s not a big dessert person, couldn’t resist. “These are dangerously good,” he said, helping himself to a third. That day, Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies became a family favorite, and we’ve made them countless times since.

Why These Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies?

Selling Points:

• Cannoli-Inspired Flavor: The combination of ricotta, chocolate, and citrus captures the essence of a classic cannoli.
• Soft and Chewy: These cookies have the perfect texture—soft in the center with a slightly crisp edge.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make them your own.

What You Need for Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp orange zest (optional)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

How to Make Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest (if using) until well combined.
5. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
8. Cool and Dust: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Cannoli Cookies

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can make the cookies dense. Mix until just combined.
• Use Full-Fat Ricotta: Full-fat ricotta gives the cookies a richer texture and flavor.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft, chill it for 15-20 minutes before baking.
• Add Citrus Zest: The orange zest adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the ricotta and chocolate.
• Store Properly: Keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and the ricotta with a dairy-free alternative.
• Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and vegan chocolate chips.
• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of almond extract for a unique twist.
• Mix-Ins: Swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chopped nuts.

Make a Healthier Version

• Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Less Sugar: Reduce the sugar in the dough or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Low-Fat Ricotta: Use low-fat ricotta to reduce calories.

Closing for Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies

These Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of flavor, creativity, and the joy of sharing something sweet with loved ones. Whether you’re serving them at a party, a family gathering, or just enjoying them as a treat, these cookies are sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your cookies turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more baking inspiration. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Ricotta works best for the cannoli flavor, but you can experiment with mascarpone or cream cheese.

Can I make these without chocolate chips?
Yes, you can omit the chocolate chips or replace them with another mix-in.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Can I make these in a different shape?
Yes, you can shape the dough into bars or thumbprint cookies for a fun variation.

What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
Serve with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the ultimate treat.

Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use a flax egg, vegan butter, and dairy-free ricotta and chocolate chips.

These Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies are a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a treat that’s sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!

Easy Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cookies

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp orange zest (optional)

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest (if using) until well combined.
• Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
• Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
• Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
• Cool and Dust: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.