A No-Fuss Twist on the Italian Classic
Cannoli cookie cups are a creative and crowd-pleasing take on the beloved Italian pastry. Instead of the traditional fried shell, these bite-sized treats feature golden cookie cups filled with rich, creamy ricotta filling. They offer all the flavor of classic cannoli in a more convenient and portable format — no deep frying required.
Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you need a make-ahead dessert, these cookie cups are as easy to assemble as they are to devour.
Why Cannoli Cookie Cups Work
This recipe simplifies a traditional dessert into a modern, mess-free version without compromising taste. The crispy cookie base mimics the crunch of cannoli shells, while the creamy filling is infused with citrus and mini chocolate chips for an authentic finish.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Cups
- One cup unsalted butter, softened
- Three fourths cup granulated sugar
- One third cup packed light brown sugar
- One large egg
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
- Two and one quarter cups all-purpose flour
- Half teaspoon baking soda
- Half teaspoon salt
For the Cannoli Filling
- One and a half cups ricotta cheese (drained)
- Half cup mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese)
- Two thirds cup powdered sugar
- One teaspoon orange zest
- Half teaspoon cinnamon
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
- One third cup mini chocolate chips
Preparation Time
- Dough preparation: 15 minutes
- Baking: 10 to 12 minutes
- Filling preparation: 10 minutes
- Assembly: 10 minutes
- Total time: About 50 minutes plus optional chill time
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a mini muffin pan well.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully combined.
Step 2: Form the Cookie Cups
- Scoop one tablespoon of dough into each mini muffin cavity.
- Use your fingers or a spoon to press the dough into the shape of a cup.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges are golden.
- Immediately after baking, use a spoon to gently press down the centers to reinforce the cup shape.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 3: Prepare the Cannoli Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat together ricotta, mascarpone, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add vanilla, cinnamon, and orange zest. Mix well.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Chill filling for at least 30 minutes for best results.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookie Cups
- Spoon or pipe the filling into each cooled cookie cup.
- Garnish with additional chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a bakery-style finish.
- Pair with espresso or cappuccino for a true Italian-style dessert.
- Great as part of a dessert platter or for individual servings at parties.
Storage Tips
- Store filled cookie cups in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Store empty cookie cups at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Fill just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Avoid freezing filled cups as the texture of the ricotta filling may change.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Cookie Cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 25 mg |
| Sodium | 90 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 19 g |
| Sugars | 11 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
Note: Nutrition values are estimates based on standard ingredients and portion sizes.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Shell Cookie Cups: Add two tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a rich chocolate twist.
- Nutty Filling: Stir chopped pistachios or hazelnuts into the filling for added texture.
- Citrus Burst: Increase orange zest or add lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
- Mini Cannoli Bar: Serve cookie cups alongside multiple fillings such as Nutella cream, berry mascarpone, or almond ricotta.
Cannoli cookie cups combine the charm of a traditional Italian dessert with the ease of a modern no-fry format. With crisp golden cookie shells and creamy ricotta filling, they are ideal for entertaining, gifting, or elevating your everyday dessert routine.
Try this simple and satisfying recipe for your next gathering, and prepare to receive rave reviews. Once you taste one, it is hard to stop at just one bite.