Cannoli Cookie Cups are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dessert, transforming the classic flavors of cannoli into a bite-sized, cookie cup treat. These little desserts feature a crisp sugar cookie crust that holds a creamy, smooth ricotta filling, topped with mini chocolate chips and crunchy pistachios. Perfect for any occasion, these cookie cups combine the best elements of a cannoli—rich ricotta filling, sweet chocolate, and a nutty finish—with the convenience and ease of a cookie. Not only are these treats irresistibly delicious, but they are also easy to make, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re planning a special celebration, a casual family gathering, or just craving something sweet, these Cannoli Cookie Cups are guaranteed to impress. With their perfect balance of sweetness and texture, they are sure to become a new favorite dessert. From their crisp cookie shell to their rich, creamy filling and crunchy topping, these cookie cups provide the ultimate indulgence in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make

These Cannoli Cookie Cups are quick and easy to prepare, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal baking time. They come together in just over 25 minutes, making them the perfect last-minute treat.

2. Delicious Cannoli Flavor

The ricotta filling combined with chocolate chips and pistachios offers all the traditional cannoli flavors in a fun, bite-sized version. It’s a perfect dessert for those who love Italian pastries.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookie cups are versatile and perfect for a variety of events, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers, or simply as a sweet snack. Their mini size makes them ideal for serving to guests or enjoying individually.

4. Customizable Toppings

You can easily customize these cookie cups with different toppings, such as fruit, other nuts, or even a drizzle of honey or caramel, allowing you to create a version that suits your taste.

5. Crowd-Pleasing Treat

With their sweet, creamy filling and crunchy texture, these Cannoli Cookie Cups are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Their unique twist on a traditional dessert will make them stand out at any gathering.

Ingredients

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

Variations

1. Fruit Topping

For a refreshing twist, top the cookie cups with fresh fruit such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the filling.

2. Nut-Free Version

If you prefer to skip the pistachios, try adding a sprinkle of chopped almonds, walnuts, or even a touch of cinnamon for an added flavor.

3. Chocolate Lovers’ Version

For chocolate lovers, increase the amount of mini chocolate chips or drizzle some melted chocolate on top of the ricotta filling before adding the pistachios.

4. Lemon Zest

Add a hint of lemon zest to the ricotta mixture for a zesty, refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cookie crust.

5. Gluten-Free Version

To make these Cannoli Cookie Cups gluten-free, use gluten-free cookie dough and ensure that the other ingredients, such as ricotta, are free from gluten.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the cookie cups come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Cups

Cut the refrigerated sugar cookie dough into 24 equal pieces. Press each piece into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to form a small bowl shape.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Cups

Bake the cookie dough for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Remove the cookie cups from the oven and use a small shot glass or the back of a spoon to press the center of each cookie down, creating a well in the center.

Step 4: Cool the Cookie Cups

Allow the cookie cups to cool completely in the muffin tin. This will help them firm up and maintain their shape once removed from the tin.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This will be your cannoli filling.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate Chips

Stir in the mini chocolate chips to the ricotta mixture, adding a little extra sweetness and texture to the filling.

Step 7: Fill the Cookie Cups

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

Step 8: Top with Pistachios

Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top of each filled cookie cup for added crunch and flavor.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Cannoli Cookie Cups immediately or refrigerate them until you’re ready to enjoy.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the Dough: If the cookie dough is too soft to work with, place it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before shaping it into the muffin cups.
Press the Cookie Dough Gently: When pressing the dough into the muffin cups, be gentle to avoid tearing the dough. Press just enough to form a well without overworking it.
Use a Mini Muffin Tin: A mini muffin tin ensures that the cookie cups are the perfect bite-sized treat, making them easier to serve and eat.
Let the Filling Rest: For the best flavor, let the ricotta filling rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before filling the cookie cups. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Don’t Overbake the Cookies: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Overbaking can make the cookie cups too hard to form into the right shape.

How to Serve

Cannoli Cookie Cups are best served as a fun, bite-sized dessert. These little treats can be served at a party, as an after-dinner indulgence, or as a sweet snack during a gathering. They also make a great addition to a dessert table or holiday spread. If you want to elevate the presentation, arrange them on a platter with some extra pistachios or chocolate shavings sprinkled over the top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Cannoli Cookie Cups, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cookies will stay fresh and the filling will remain creamy. If you have extra filling, store it separately and fill the cookie cups just before serving.

Freezing

While the cookie cups themselves freeze well, it’s best to freeze them without the filling. Place the cooled, unfilled cookie cups in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw the cups and fill them with the ricotta mixture.

Reheating

Reheat the cookie cups in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F if you prefer a warm cookie crust. However, they are also delicious served chilled.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use homemade sugar cookie dough if you prefer. Just make sure it’s firm enough to hold the shape of the muffin cups.

2. Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

If you prefer, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with mascarpone cheese or cream cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor.

3. Can I make these cookie cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cookie cups and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days before filling them with the ricotta mixture.

4. How long do the cookie cups need to bake?

The cookie cups need to bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

5. Can I add other toppings?

Yes, you can add other toppings like maraschino cherries, candied orange peel, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair.

6. Can I make these without pistachios?

Yes, if you don’t like pistachios, you can skip them or replace them with another nut like almonds or walnuts.

7. How can I make these cookie cups vegan?

To make these vegan, use a plant-based sugar cookie dough and swap out the ricotta for a vegan ricotta alternative or a thick coconut cream.

8. What should I do if the cookie cups lose their shape?

If the cookie cups lose their shape while baking, gently press them into the correct shape while they are still warm using a spoon or shot glass.

9. Can I use regular-sized muffin tins?

It’s best to use a mini muffin tin to ensure the cookie cups are bite-sized. Regular-sized tins may yield overly large cups.

10. Can I store the filling separately?

Yes, store the ricotta filling separately in the fridge and fill the cookie cups just before serving to maintain their freshness.

Conclusion

Cannoli Cookie Cups are a fun and delicious twist on the traditional cannoli, offering a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy cookie base, creamy ricotta filling, and crunchy pistachios, these mini desserts pack all the flavor of a classic cannoli with none of the fuss. Whether you’re making them for a special event or enjoying them as an everyday treat, these cookie cups are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Quick, easy, and totally customizable, Cannoli Cookie Cups are a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.