Are you ready to elevate your holiday baking game with a delightful twist on a classic Italian dessert? The cannoli cookies recipe for holiday baking is the perfect fusion of flavors that will have your guests raving about your culinary skills. Did you know that cookies are one of the most popular holiday treats, with over 50% of Americans baking cookies during the festive season? This recipe combines the rich, creamy filling of traditional cannoli with the convenience of cookies, making it a must-try for your holiday gatherings. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients List

To create these scrumptious cannoli cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Cookie Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the Cannoli Filling:
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
  • 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (adjust for sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • Optional: Zest of 1 orange for added flavor

Substitution Suggestions:

• You can use gluten-free flour to make the cookies gluten-free.
• Substitute mascarpone with cream cheese if you prefer a tangier filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Flatten each ball slightly with your palm.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Cannoli Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Fold in the mini chocolate chips and orange zest (if using) for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

1. Once the cookies have cooled completely, use a piping bag or a spoon to fill half of the cookies with the cannoli filling.
2. Top with another cookie to create a sandwich.
3. Dust the assembled cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per cookie (based on 12 cookies):

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 23g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this cannoli cookies recipe for holiday baking a bit healthier, consider the following modifications:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Replace half of the butter with applesauce to reduce fat content.
• Opt for low-fat ricotta and mascarpone cheeses to cut down on calories.

Serving Suggestions

These delightful cannoli cookies can be served in various creative ways:

• Platter Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a festive platter, garnished with fresh berries and mint leaves for a pop of color.
• Pairing: Serve alongside a cup of rich espresso or hot chocolate for a delightful pairing.
• Gift Idea: Package them in decorative boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your cannoli cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
• Not Cooling the Cookies: Filling warm cookies can cause the filling to melt. Always let them cool completely.
• Skipping the Draining of Ricotta: Ensure your ricotta is well-drained to prevent a watery filling.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your cannoli cookies fresh and delicious:

• Storing Leftovers: Store the filled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the cookie dough and filling separately and assemble them just before serving to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

In summary, this cannoli cookies recipe for holiday baking is a delightful fusion of flavors that will impress your guests. With a quick prep time and simple ingredients, these cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments or subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

Q1: Can I freeze these cookies?

A1: Yes! You can freeze the baked cookies without filling for up to 2 months. Just thaw and fill before serving.

Q2: Can I use different fillings?

A2: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fillings like fruit preserves or flavored cream cheese.

Q3: How do I know when the cookies are done?

A3: The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges. They will continue to firm up as they cool.