Cannoli Cookie Cups are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dessert, combining the creamy richness of cannoli filling with the comforting crunch of a sugar cookie. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a sweet indulgence after a meal. With their crispy cookie base and luscious ricotta filling, each bite brings a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The addition of mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios gives these cookies a playful touch while adding layers of flavor that complement the creamy filling perfectly. Easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients, these Cannoli Cookie Cups will become a new favorite dessert in your recipe rotation.

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds—the soft, buttery sugar cookie crust and the creamy, sweet ricotta filling. The texture contrast between the cookie and the smooth filling is irresistible, while the chocolate chips and pistachios offer little bursts of flavor that elevate this dessert to another level. Whether you’re a fan of cannolis or just looking for a unique treat, these cookie cups will definitely satisfy your cravings. Perfect for sharing, they’re a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cannoli Cookie Cups are an easy-to-make dessert that combines the flavors of an iconic Italian pastry with the convenience of a cookie. They’re simple to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and bake quickly. The cookie base provides a crispy texture, while the creamy ricotta filling is sweet and smooth. The topping of mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios adds both visual appeal and extra flavor. This dessert can be customized for different occasions, and it’s ideal for both casual gatherings and more formal events. If you’re looking for a fun and delicious dessert that everyone will love, these Cannoli Cookie Cups are the perfect choice.

Ingredients

Refrigerated sugar cookie dough
Ricotta cheese
Powdered sugar
Mini chocolate chips
Chopped pistachios

Variations

Chocolate Cookie Base: Replace the sugar cookie dough with chocolate cookie dough for a richer base that pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta filling.
Fruit Toppings: Instead of pistachios, top the cookie cups with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
Flavored Ricotta: Add vanilla extract or almond extract to the ricotta mixture for a different flavor profile.
Nut-Free: Omit the pistachios and top with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or mini marshmallows for a fun variation.
Cannoli Shell Base: If you want to go all-in on the cannoli theme, you can use store-bought or homemade cannoli shells instead of sugar cookie dough.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with paper liners.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Cut the refrigerated sugar cookie dough into 24 equal pieces. Press each piece of dough into the muffin cups, making sure to cover the bottom and slightly up the sides.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Cups

Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookie cups turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Cannoli Filling

While the cookie cups cool, mix the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar together in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate Chips

Once the ricotta mixture is smooth, fold in the mini chocolate chips. This adds a delicious texture and flavor to the filling.

Step 6: Fill the Cookie Cups

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

Step 7: Add the Toppings

Top each filled cookie cup with a small amount of chopped pistachios for added crunch and flavor.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the Cannoli Cookie Cups for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to firm up and makes them easier to handle.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cool the Cookie Cups Thoroughly: Let the cookie cups cool completely before filling them to prevent the filling from melting or becoming too soft.
Use Full-Fat Ricotta: For the best creamy texture and flavor, opt for full-fat ricotta cheese.
Chill the Filling: If the ricotta filling seems too soft, refrigerating it for a bit before filling the cookies will help it set.
Make the Cookie Base in Advance: You can prepare the cookie cups ahead of time and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to fill and serve them.

How to Serve

Serve these Cannoli Cookie Cups chilled for the best texture. They make a fantastic dessert for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. You can also pair them with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for an extra-special touch. For a fun presentation, arrange them on a decorative platter and garnish with extra pistachios or chocolate shavings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cannoli Cookie Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.

Freezing

To freeze these treats, store the unfilled cookie cups in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Once ready to serve, thaw the cookie cups, fill them with the ricotta mixture, and top with pistachios before serving.

Reheating

The cookie cups themselves can be stored at room temperature, but if you prefer them slightly warm, you can reheat them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. However, the filling is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating after they are filled.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough for this recipe?

Yes, homemade sugar cookie dough works just as well as store-bought dough.

2. How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute gluten-free sugar cookie dough to make these Cannoli Cookie Cups gluten-free.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

While ricotta is the traditional choice, mascarpone or cream cheese could also be used for a different flavor.

4. How can I make the filling more flavorful?

Add vanilla extract, almond extract, or cinnamon to the ricotta mixture for added depth of flavor.

5. Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts would be great alternatives.

6. How do I prevent the cookie cups from becoming soggy?

Ensure the cookie cups are completely cool before adding the filling, and refrigerate them to help the filling set.

7. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cookie cups and fill them a day or two in advance. Just be sure to keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.

8. How long do these cookies last?

These cookie cups will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

9. Can I add more toppings to the cookie cups?

Definitely! Try adding mini marshmallows, drizzles of chocolate syrup, or fresh berries for extra flair.

10. Can I freeze the filling?

It’s not recommended to freeze the ricotta filling, as it may change in texture once thawed. Freeze the cookie cups unfilled instead.

Conclusion

Cannoli Cookie Cups are a fun and delicious take on a classic Italian dessert. With a crisp sugar cookie base and creamy ricotta filling, these bite-sized treats offer the perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and rich flavor. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these Cannoli Cookie Cups are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.