Cannoli Cookies

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Cannoli Cookies

Introduction

Cannoli Cookies combine the classic flavors of the iconic Italian dessert, cannoli, with the convenience of a cookie. With their creamy ricotta base, chocolate chips, citrus zest, and powdered sugar topping, these cookies are an indulgent treat that delights dessert lovers worldwide. They are perfect for holidays, gatherings, or any time you want to impress your loved ones with a unique dessert.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (full fat recommended)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Decoration:

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • 1/2 cup melted chocolate (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix until smooth.
  1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.
  1. Combine:
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
  1. Shape and Bake:
  • Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  1. Decorate:
  • Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate over the tops for a decorative and flavorful touch.

History

Cannoli, originating in Sicily, is a traditional Italian dessert consisting of fried pastry shells filled with a sweet ricotta-based filling. Over time, bakers have adapted its flavors into modern treats like cookies, cakes, and even cheesecakes. Cannoli Cookies provide the perfect balance of the dessert’s essence with the ease of cookie preparation, making them an ideal homage to Italian culinary heritage.

Benefits

  • Nutritional Balance: Ricotta cheese is a great source of protein and calcium.
  • Flavor Variety: These cookies offer a mix of citrusy, creamy, and chocolatey flavors.
  • Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings and easy to transport.
  • Easy to Customize: You can swap chocolate chips for nuts, candied fruits, or even sprinkles

  1. Rich in Nutrients:
  • Ricotta Cheese: A key ingredient in cannoli cookies, ricotta cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, which support bone health and muscle repair.
  • Orange Zest: Contains vitamin C and antioxidants that boost immunity and promote healthy skin.
  1. Balanced Indulgence:
  • These cookies strike a balance between indulgence and lighter ingredients like ricotta cheese, making them a less heavy dessert option compared to traditional fried cannoli.
  1. Versatile Flavors:
  • The combination of citrus zest, chocolate, and vanilla creates a unique, layered flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
  1. Energy Boost:
  • The combination of carbohydrates and fats in these cookies provides a quick energy boost, making them an excellent choice for a midday snack or dessert.
  1. Crowd-Pleaser:
  • Cannoli cookies are perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic dessert that impresses guests without requiring extensive preparation.
  1. Digestive Support:
  • The citrus zest and small portion of fiber from the flour can help support digestion, especially when paired with tea or coffee.
  1. Customizable for Dietary Needs:
  • Cannoli cookies can easily be adapted for gluten-free or reduced-sugar diets by swapping in alternative flours or sweeteners.
  1. Mood Enhancer:
  • The combination of chocolate and citrus flavors stimulates the release of endorphins, creating a feel-good dessert experience.
  1. Easy to Share:
  • Unlike traditional cannoli, which can be messy to eat, these cookies are portable, easy to share, and perfect for casual occasions.
  1. Homemade Comfort:
    • Baking cannoli cookies at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and add a personal touch, providing comfort and satisfaction for both the baker and those who enjoy them.

Formations

  • For a Classic Look: Stick to chocolate chips and orange zest.
  • Festive Twist: Use red and green sprinkles for holidays.
  • Decadent Upgrade: Dip half the cookie into melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed pistachios.

Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximately):

  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugars: 9g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Vitamin C: 1mg (from orange zest)
  • Calcium: 30mg (from ricotta cheese)
  • Iron: 0.4mg

Key Nutritional Highlights:

  1. Good Source of Calcium: Ricotta cheese contributes to the calcium content, supporting bone and dental health.
  2. Moderate Energy Content: Each cookie provides 120 calories, making it a manageable indulgence.
  3. Low Sodium: With just 50mg of sodium, these cookies are a great dessert option for those watching their salt intake.
  4. Healthy Fats: The butter and ricotta contribute to the fat content, which is essential for absorbing vitamins and maintaining energy.
  5. Natural Antioxidants: The orange zest and chocolate chips provide a dose of antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.

Conclusion

Cannoli Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate Italian flavors in a compact and easy-to-make form. Their creamy, citrusy, and chocolatey notes make them an irresistible dessert that appeals to people of all ages.

For the Cannoli Lovers

These cookies are ideal for anyone who loves the taste of cannoli but seeks a simpler preparation method. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a romantic dinner, or just to treat yourself, these cookies are sure to satisfy.

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