Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dessert, combining two soft cookies with a creamy ricotta filling. These treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

For the Cannoli Filling:

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese (drained)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• Chopped pistachios (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
4. Mix Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips if using.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop Dough: Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Cannoli Filling

1. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Fill Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe a generous amount of the cannoli filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
2. Top with Another Cookie: Place another cookie on top, flat side down, to form a sandwich.
3. Garnish: If desired, roll the edges of the filling in chopped pistachios for added texture and flavor.

Step 6: Serve

1. Chill (Optional): For best results, refrigerate the assembled cookie sandwiches for about 30 minutes to firm up the filling.
2. Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy these delicious Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches (per sandwich, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	300
Protein	5g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	15g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Add a splash of almond extract to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
• Cookie Variations: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
• Fruit Additions: Fold in some finely chopped fruit, like strawberries or cherries, into the filling for a fruity twist.

Conclusion

Cannoli Cookie Sandwiches are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of cannoli in a cookie form. With their creamy filling and soft cookies, these treats are sure to please everyone. Enjoy this delightful recipe!