After a long week of takeout and rushed dinners, I found myself yearning for something special that would remind me of simpler comforts. That’s when I decided to whip up these delightful Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches—a fusion of two favorites that satisfies both a sweet tooth and the nostalgic cravings we all have.
When my kitchen filled with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon mingling with sweet vanilla, I knew I was onto something special. Soft cookies, hiding a creamy, dreamy ricotta filling, not only bring joy to the taste buds but also create an unforgettable moment of indulgence.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these sandwiches are surprisingly easy to make, yet impressively sophisticated. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ve got a showstopper that elevates any occasion, leaving behind the mundane of fast food. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Why You'll Love This Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches
- These Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches are incredibly easy to whip up, allowing you to enjoy a delectable dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The rich, creamy ricotta filling combined with the soft, mildly spiced cookies creates a burst of flavor that will leave everyone craving more.
- Their versatility shines through as they can be dressed up with toppings like chocolate chips or pistachios, making them perfect for any occasion.
- With their inviting appearance and delightful taste, these cookie sandwiches are sure to impress friends and family, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.
Cannoli Cookie Sandwich Ingredients
• Get ready to create something delightful!
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted butter – softened to create a rich and creamy base for your cookies.
- Granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender texture.
- Brown sugar – packed for added moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Large eggs – crucial for binding the ingredients and providing structure.
- Vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor profile, making every bite divine.
- All-purpose flour – the foundation of your cookies; be sure to measure accurately!
- Baking soda – helps the cookies rise and achieve that perfect soft texture.
- Salt – balances sweetness and elevates the flavors in your dough.
- Ground cinnamon – infuses warm spice notes that complement the cookies perfectly.
- Mini chocolate chips (optional) – adds a delightful surprise in every bite!
For the Cannoli Filling
- Ricotta cheese – the star ingredient for an authentic cannoli flavor; make sure it’s well-drained.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens and thickens the filling for a dreamy consistency.
- Vanilla extract – again adding a luscious depth to the creamy filling.
- Ground cinnamon – a dash for flavor that echoes the cookies.
- Mini chocolate chips – perfect for added texture and a touch of fun.
For Garnishing (Optional)
- Chopped pistachios – these offer a crunchy finish and a pop of color, enhancing your dessert’s presentation.
Dive into these Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches, and you’ll find each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a dessert that’s truly satisfying. Enjoy!
How to Make Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden finish.
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Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes of vigorous mixing!
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Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to add a delicious flavor base to your cookies.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed for perfect cookies.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If you’re using mini chocolate chips, this is the moment to fold them in gently!
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Drop Dough: Using a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread while baking.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
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Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix until smooth and creamy—this will be the star of your sandwich!
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Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips into the ricotta mixture, adding a delightful burst of flavor to your filling.
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Assemble Sandwiches: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe a generous amount of the cannoli filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie, flat side down, to create your delightful sandwich.
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Garnish (Optional): If desired, roll the edges of the filling in chopped pistachios to add a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your treats!
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Chill: For best results, refrigerate the assembled cookie sandwiches for about 30 minutes to firm up that delicious filling, making every bite even more enjoyable!
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Serve: When ready, serve your cannoli cookie sandwiches chilled or at room temperature. Each bite will be a delightful experience that transports you to your favorite Italian pastry shop.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches
Room Temperature: Keep any leftover Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This maintains their softness and prevents them from getting stale.
Fridge: For a longer shelf life, store the sandwiches in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 7 days. Just be sure to seal them well to avoid drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, separate the sandwiches with parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If you enjoy them warm, pop the sandwiches in a microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy these Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
What to Serve with Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches?
Creating the perfect dessert is just the beginning; it’s time to plan a delightful spread that will make your theme shine.
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Rich Espresso: A bold cup of espresso serves as a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing their flavors beautifully.
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Classic Italian Gelato: Creamy gelato, especially in flavors like pistachio or chocolate, complements the cookie’s rich filling, adding temperature contrast.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of fresh strawberries and raspberries adds a burst of tartness that balances the sweetness of the Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches wonderfully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce not only elevates the presentation but also enhances the chocolate chip experience within the sandwich.
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Candied Orange Peel: The bright citrus notes from candied orange peel offer a unique twist, pairing well with the cookie’s spices while adding a delightful chewy texture.
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Italian Sweet Wine: A light, sweet wine like Moscato pairs exquisitely, enhancing the overall indulgent experience of your dessert.
For a truly memorable occasion, these pairings take your Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches to new heights, making each bite feel special. Enjoy the harmonious flavors and textures while creating warm memories around the table!
Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these delightful cookie sandwiches to your taste and preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously inclusive dessert option.
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Nut-Free: Omit pistachios and use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a safe crunch perfect for school lunches.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cookie dough for an extra layer of warmth and aromatic flavor.
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Dairy-Free: Replace ricotta cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy these treats.
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Flavorful Twist: Mix in lemon zest or orange zest into the cannoli filling for a refreshing citrus flair that brightens every bite.
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Chocolate Lovers: Swap in dark chocolate chips or use a chocolate cookie base for an indulgent chocolate-infused experience that’ll satisfy your cravings.
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Heat Things Up: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cannoli filling for an intriguing spicy-sweet contrast.
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Fruity Surprise: Fold in finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or cherries in the ricotta mixture for delightful bursts of flavor with every bite.
Feel encouraged to mix and match these variations to create your perfect Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches!
Make Ahead Options
These Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches are a perfect solution for busy weeknights and can save you precious time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing and refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, the ricotta filling can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep the filling covered to maintain its creaminess. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and drop the prepared dough onto baking sheets, bake, and allow them to cool completely before assembling with the filling. With a little prep work, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to impress your family without the last-minute rush!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches, ensure your butter is at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
- Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour to prevent tough cookies; mix until just combined.
- For the ricotta filling, make sure to drain the cheese well to achieve the perfect creamy texture without excess moisture.
- Baking the cookies at 350°F for the specified 10-12 minutes will give you a golden edge, so keep an eye on them for an ideal finish.
Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches Recipe FAQs
What type of ripe ingredients should I use?
For the best flavor in your Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches, I recommend using room temperature unsalted butter for optimal creaming and softening. In addition, make sure to choose ricotta cheese that is fresh and well-drained, as this ensures a creamy texture without excess moisture.
How should I store Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches?
Store leftover Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, place them in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for up to 7 days, making sure they are well-sealed to prevent drying.
Can I freeze Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches?
Absolutely! To freeze, carefully layer the assembled sandwiches with parchment paper in between each one. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What if my cookies turn out tough?
If you find that your cookies are tough, it may be due to overmixing the dough once you’ve incorporated the flour. I often mix until just combined, ensuring a perfectly soft texture. Also, make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier blending and optimal moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations?
Yes! If you or your guests have allergies, be mindful of the ingredients. Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches contain gluten (from all-purpose flour) and dairy (from butter and ricotta cheese). You can try substituting with gluten-free flour and dairy alternatives if necessary. Always check labels to ensure safety, especially for allergies!
How can I ensure my ricotta filling is smooth?
For a creamy, smooth ricotta filling, make sure to drain the ricotta well, pressing out any excess moisture. Then, in a mixing bowl, blend the ricotta with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth. Use a hand mixer for a consistent texture if desired, ensuring each bite is heavenly!
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup Unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar packed
- 2 large Large eggs
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup Mini chocolate chips optional
Cannoli Filling
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese well-drained
- 1/2 cup Powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup Mini chocolate chips
Garnishing
- 1/4 cup Chopped pistachios optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips if using.
- Drop rounded portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool before transferring to wire racks.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold in mini chocolate chips into the ricotta mixture.
- Spread or pipe a generous amount of filling onto one cookie, topping with another cookie to create a sandwich.
- If desired, roll edges of filling in chopped pistachios. Refrigerate assembled sandwiches for 30 minutes.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
