If there’s one cookie that tastes like the holidays wrapped in warmth and sweetness, it’s these Soft Italian Cannoli Cookies. Inspired by the beloved Sicilian dessert, these cookies capture all the cozy flavors of a traditional cannoli—creamy ricotta, orange zest, and mini chocolate chips—in a soft, tender bite.
They’re easy enough for beginner bakers yet elegant enough to impress at any Christmas cookie exchange. Whether you grew up on Italian sweets or simply love a dessert that feels homemade and heartwarming, these cookies are the perfect blend of festive charm and comforting simplicity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookies:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon orange zest (freshly grated)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Topping:
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Extra mini chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together the butter, ricotta, and sugar until light and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes. This step gives your cookies that soft, cake-like texture.
Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest until fully combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in mini chocolate chips — don’t overmix! You want the dough to stay soft and airy.
Scoop & Bake
Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough balls onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should stay pale and soft.
Cool & Dust
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Then, lightly dust with powdered sugar for that classic cannoli finish.
Cooking Tip:
For a festive touch, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top of the cookies before baking!
Helpful Notes & Tips
Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing: You can freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months — thaw at room temperature before serving.
Texture Tip: Don’t overbake; the centers should remain slightly soft for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Recipe Variations
Citrus Twist: Swap orange zest for lemon zest for a bright, tangy flavor.
Nutty Delight: Add 1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios or almonds to the dough for a subtle crunch.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Soft Italian Cannoli Cookies with:
A warm cup of espresso, cappuccino, or spiced tea.
As part of a holiday dessert platter alongside biscotti or Italian layered cookies.
Or simply enjoy them fresh from the oven with loved ones on a cozy winter night.
Conclusion
These Soft Italian Cannoli Cookies are more than just a sweet treat — they’re a cozy holiday memory waiting to happen. With every bite, you’ll taste a little bit of Italian warmth and family tradition. Bake a batch this Christmas, share them with friends, or keep a few (okay, maybe more than a few!) just for yourself.
Try them for yourself and make your kitchen smell like the holidays!