Cannoli Cookie Cups

Cannoli Cookie Cups are an irresistible fusion of two beloved treats: classic cannoli and sugar cookies. These mini cookie cups are filled with a rich and creamy ricotta filling, making them a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and flavor. With the crunchy, golden cookie shell and the smooth, indulgent ricotta filling, these bite-sized desserts offer the classic taste of cannoli in a fun and easy-to-make form. The addition of mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios adds delightful texture and flavor that takes these cookie cups to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a family gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat, these Cannoli Cookie Cups are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. In just under an hour, you can enjoy these creamy, crunchy, and flavorful dessert cups that are sure to impress with their delightful combination of textures and traditional cannoli flavors. Perfectly sized for sharing or indulging on your own, these bite-sized delights are bound to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make

This recipe uses refrigerated sugar cookie dough, making it quick and simple to prepare. There’s no need for complicated steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

2. Delicious Cannoli Flavors

These cookie cups bring the classic cannoli flavors into a portable, bite-sized form with the creamy ricotta filling, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips.

3. Perfect for Parties

These mini desserts are ideal for parties, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress with a delicious, elegant treat that’s easy to serve.

4. Customizable

Feel free to customize the filling by adding other mix-ins like chopped almonds, orange zest, or even a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.

5. No Frying Required

Unlike traditional cannoli, these cookie cups are baked, which means you get all the delicious flavor of cannoli without any frying.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Cups:

• Refrigerated sugar cookie dough

For the Ricotta Filling:

• Ricotta cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Mini chocolate chips
• Chopped pistachios

Variations

Add More Nuts

Swap pistachios for other nuts like chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts for a different flavor profile.

Make Them Chocolate-Dipped

For an extra indulgent touch, dip the edges of the cookie cups in melted chocolate and allow it to set before adding the ricotta filling.

Add a Splash of Liqueur

For an adult twist, add a splash of orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier) to the ricotta filling for a hint of sophistication.

Fruit Fillings

If you want to add a fruity twist, fold in some finely chopped fruit such as strawberries, raspberries, or even dried cherries into the ricotta mixture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the cookie cups from sticking.

Step 2: Shape the Cookie Cups

Slice the refrigerated sugar cookie dough into 12 equal pieces. Press each piece into the bottom and up the sides of the muffin tin cups, forming a small cup shape.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Cups

Bake the cookie dough for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove the tin from the oven and let the cookie cups cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Filling

While the cookie cups are cooling, prepare the ricotta filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add the Mix-ins

Fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios into the ricotta filling, making sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Fill the Cookie Cups

Once the cookie cups have cooled, spoon the ricotta mixture into each cookie cup, filling them generously.

Step 7: Refrigerate

Place the filled cookie cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set and become firm before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cool the Cookie Cups Completely: Make sure the cookie cups are completely cool before filling them with the ricotta mixture to prevent the filling from melting.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pile on the ricotta mixture, be mindful of the size of the cookie cups so they don’t overflow when chilled.
• Use Full-Fat Ricotta: For the creamiest and richest filling, use full-fat ricotta cheese rather than the low-fat variety.
• Chill for the Best Texture: Chilling the filled cookie cups helps the ricotta filling firm up and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Serve with Extra Toppings: Top the filled cookie cups with additional mini chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving for an added touch.

How to Serve

These Cannoli Cookie Cups are best served chilled, so they’re perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge. They’re an excellent dessert for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet snack. For a more decadent touch, drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cannoli Cookie Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cookie cups will keep their freshness, and the flavors will continue to develop as they sit.

Freezing

To freeze the cookie cups, assemble the cookies and freeze the unfilled cookie cups. Once frozen, store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, fill with the ricotta mixture and chill.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these cookie cups, as they’re best served chilled. Simply remove them from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving for optimal texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of refrigerated dough?

Yes, you can absolutely use homemade sugar cookie dough. Just be sure to chill the dough before pressing it into the muffin tin for easier handling.

2. Can I make these without pistachios?

Yes, you can either omit the pistachios or substitute them with another nut, such as almonds or walnuts, or leave them out entirely for a simpler version.

3. Can I use ricotta cheese substitutes?

If you don’t have ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese is a great substitute with a similar creamy texture and rich flavor.

4. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can make gluten-free versions of these Cannoli Cookie Cups by using gluten-free sugar cookie dough.

5. How do I keep the ricotta filling from being too runny?

Ensure that the ricotta cheese is well-drained before using it. If the ricotta is too watery, it may cause the filling to be too runny.

6. Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of a mini muffin tin?

If you don’t have a mini muffin tin, you can use a standard muffin tin, but the baking time may vary. Make sure to check for doneness.

7. Can I add other fillings to the ricotta mixture?

Yes! Feel free to add ingredients like chocolate chips, chopped fruit, or dried fruit to the ricotta filling for added texture and flavor.

8. Can I use flavored ricotta?

If you want to experiment with flavors, you could try using flavored ricotta, such as lemon or orange-flavored ricotta, for a unique twist on the classic cannoli filling.

9. Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the cookie cups ahead of time. Fill them with the ricotta mixture and refrigerate them for up to 2-3 days before serving.

10. How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the tin?

Spraying the muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray before adding the dough will help prevent the cookies from sticking.

Conclusion

Cannoli Cookie Cups are a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of cannoli with the ease of a sugar cookie crust. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just enjoying them as a sweet snack, these mini treats are sure to impress. With their creamy ricotta filling, crunch from the pistachios, and rich chocolate chips, these cookie cups offer a fun, bite-sized twist on a traditional Italian favorite. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’ll quickly become a go-to dessert for any gathering.

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