Cannoli Cookie Cups Recipe

Introduction

When I first tried making Cannoli Cookie Cups, I wasn’t sure what to expect. After all, cannoli is a traditional Italian dessert, and turning it into a cookie cup seemed like a fun twist. However, once I took that first bite, I was hooked. The chewy, slightly crispy cookie cup combined perfectly with the rich, creamy cannoli filling. My family couldn’t get enough of them! These little treats are perfect for holidays, parties, or even a simple afternoon treat. The best part is how easily they come together and how customizable they are for different occasions. Whether you love chocolate or prefer your dessert more on the traditional side, these Cannoli Cookie Cups are sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Cups:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup chocolate chips

For the Cannoli Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, strained
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

Optional Toppings:

• Mini chocolate chips for garnish
• 4 oz melted chocolate bar for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray the muffin pans generously with baking spray to prevent sticking. This will make it easier to remove the cookie cups once they are baked.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer on low speed to mix until smooth and the sugars have dissolved. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix again until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed after each addition. Once the dough is well combined, fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula.

Step 3: Form the Cookie Cups Using a medium-sized ice cream scooper, scoop portions of the cookie dough into the prepared muffin cups. Press the dough gently in the center to create a cavity. This cavity will form the “cup” shape as the dough bakes and spreads.

Step 4: Bake the Cookie Cups Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 16-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookie cups have set. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie cups cool in the pan for 25-30 minutes before removing.

Step 5: Prepare the Cannoli Filling While the cookie cups cool, prepare the cannoli filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strained ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy.

Once the filling is ready, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the filling until ready to use.

Step 6: Fill and Garnish the Cookie Cups After the cookie cups have cooled completely, carefully remove them from the muffin pan. Transfer the cannoli filling into a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe the filling generously into the center of each cookie cup.

For a finishing touch, sprinkle the tops with additional mini chocolate chips and drizzle with melted chocolate for added richness and flair.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 16-20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Perfect for Parties: Serve these Cannoli Cookie Cups on a dessert table for a fun and unique treat that guests will love.
• Holiday Treats: They’re ideal for holidays like Christmas or Easter, with their festive look and indulgent flavor.
• After-Dinner Dessert: Pair these with a nice espresso or cappuccino for a sweet end to any meal.
• Gift Ideas: Pack these in a gift box or bag as a homemade gift for friends and family.
• Snacks for Family Gatherings: Make a batch of these for casual family gatherings; they’ll be a hit with everyone.

Additional Tips

1. Ensure the Ricotta is Well-Drained: For the best cannoli filling, be sure to drain the ricotta cheese well to avoid a watery filling.
2. Use Room Temperature Eggs: Always use room temperature eggs to ensure they mix well with the other ingredients.
3. Press the Cookie Dough Firmly: When forming the cookie cups, gently press the dough into the muffin cups, ensuring the edges form well and create a uniform cup.
4. Drizzle Chocolate for Extra Indulgence: Drizzling melted chocolate on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful finishing touch.
5. Don’t Overfill the Cups: When filling the cookie cups with the cannoli filling, be careful not to overfill, as it can overflow when serving.

Recipe Variations

• Fruit-filled: For a lighter variation, try filling the cookie cups with fresh berries or fruit preserves along with the ricotta mixture.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped pistachios to the cannoli filling for added texture and a more traditional cannoli flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace the mascarpone and ricotta with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut-based cream cheese.
• Chocolate Cookie Cups: Use a chocolate cookie dough instead of the classic dough for a rich and indulgent chocolate version of these cookie cups.
• Mini Cannoli Cups: For a bite-sized version, use a mini muffin tin to create smaller cups and serve as finger foods.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Fruit: Pair these Cannoli Cookie Cups with fresh berries or fruit salad to balance the richness of the filling.
• Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top of the filling for an extra layer of decadence.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: These cookies go wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee, cappuccino, or chai tea.
• Serve as Part of a Dessert Buffet: Include these alongside other treats like brownies, cookies, and pastries for a well-rounded dessert buffet.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing: These Cannoli Cookie Cups can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie cups without the filling for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw and fill with the cannoli mixture.
• Cannoli Filling: The cannoli filling can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze the filling.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with other soft cheeses like mascarpone or cream cheese, but ricotta offers the traditional flavor and texture.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before forming the cups.

3. Can I use store-bought filling?
While making your own filling offers the best flavor, you can use store-bought cannoli filling for convenience.

4. How do I ensure the cookie cups don’t spread too much?
Make sure you press the dough gently into the muffin cups before baking. Also, chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking to help it maintain its shape.

5. Can I make mini versions of these cookie cups?
Absolutely! You can use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized versions of these cookie cups.

6. What can I substitute for the mini chocolate chips in the filling?
You can use regular-sized chocolate chips or other small candies like chopped chocolate bars or butterscotch chips.

7. Can I freeze the filled cookie cups?
It’s best to freeze the cookie cups without the filling. Once you are ready to serve, thaw the cups and fill them with the freshly made filling.

8. Can I make these without the mascarpone?
Yes, you can use all ricotta cheese if you prefer, though the mascarpone adds extra creaminess and richness.

9. How can I prevent the filling from becoming too runny?
Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese thoroughly before mixing to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

10. Can I add extra flavor to the filling?
Yes, you can experiment by adding a splash of amaretto, cinnamon, or orange zest

to the filling for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Cannoli Cookie Cups are a delicious and creative spin on the classic cannoli dessert. With their rich cookie base and creamy filling, these cookie cups are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or just indulging in a sweet bite, these bite-sized delights will not disappoint. They’re easy to make, versatile, and, most importantly, absolutely irresistible. Don’t wait to try this delightful recipe that blends the best of both worlds: a crunchy cookie and a creamy cannoli filling!

Print