Cannoli Cookie Cups with Creamy Ricotta Filling

• All the flavors of cannoli in a convenient form: These cookie cups capture the essence of cannoli with much less effort.
• Perfect for entertaining: They’re easy to make, beautifully presented, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable: Add chocolate chips, citrus zest, or nuts to suit your tastes.
• No frying required: Enjoy all the deliciousness of cannoli without deep-frying shells.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookie cups:

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Mini chocolate chips (optional)

For the creamy ricotta filling:

• Ricotta cheese (well-drained)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Orange zest or lemon zest (optional)
• Mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios for garnish

Directions

1. Make the cookie cups:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
   • In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Mix in the egg and vanilla extract.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.
   • Fold in mini chocolate chips (if using).
   • Scoop the dough into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
2. Bake the cookie cups:
   • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
   • While still warm, use the back of a small spoon or a rounded tool to press a cavity into each cookie cup. Let them cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the ricotta filling:
   • In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and citrus zest (if using) until smooth and creamy. Chill the filling for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Assemble the cookie cups:
   • Spoon or pipe the ricotta filling into each cooled cookie cup.
   • Garnish with mini chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
5. Serve:
   • Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookie cups
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Nutty delight: Add finely chopped pistachios or almonds to the cookie dough for a nutty twist.
• Citrus flair: Use orange zest in both the dough and filling for a refreshing citrus note.
• Chocolate lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the assembled cookie cups for extra indulgence.
• Fruit-filled: Add a small dollop of raspberry or cherry jam before piping in the ricotta filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the assembled cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Filling ahead: You can prepare the cookie cups and filling separately a day in advance and assemble them just before serving for maximum freshness.

FAQs

1. How do I prevent the ricotta filling from being watery?

Use well-drained ricotta cheese. Let it sit in a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

2. Can I use mascarpone instead of ricotta?

Yes, mascarpone can be used for a creamier, slightly sweeter filling.

3. Can I freeze cookie cups?

Yes, freeze the baked cookie cups (without filling) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before filling.

4. Can I make these gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that works for cookies.

5. Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Absolutely. Try almond extract, cinnamon, or even a splash of liqueur like Amaretto.

6. How do I make the cookie cups evenly shaped?

Press the dough evenly into the muffin tin and use a uniform tool, such as a melon baller, to create consistent cavities.

7. Can I add food coloring to the filling?

Yes, a small drop of gel food coloring can add a fun pop of color.

8. How long does the filling last in the fridge?

The filling can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

9. Can I use pre-made cookie dough?

Yes, store-bought sugar cookie dough works as a quick alternative for the cookie cups.

10. Can I use low-fat ricotta?

Yes, but the filling may be slightly less creamy. Draining the ricotta well is still important.

Conclusion

Cannoli cookie cups with creamy ricotta filling are an easy and impressive dessert that delivers all the flavors of a traditional cannoli in a fun, modern presentation. With their buttery cookie base and smooth, sweet filling, these bite-sized delights are sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Perfect for entertaining or treating yourself, this recipe is a must-try for all cannoli fans!