Cannoli Cookie Cups 

These Cannoli Cookie Cups are the perfect fusion of a crisp cookie and creamy cannoli filling, topped with chocolate chips and a drizzle of chocolate for a decadent dessert!

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Cups:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips

For the Cannoli Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese, drained
• ½ cup mascarpone cheese
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Mini chocolate chips (for topping)
• Melted chocolate (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
5. Divide the cookie dough evenly among the muffin tin cups, pressing the dough down and up the sides to form little cups.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookie cups cool completely before removing them from the tin.
7. In a medium bowl, beat together the drained ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
8. Fill each cooled cookie cup with the cannoli filling.
9. Top with mini chocolate chips and drizzle with melted chocolate.
10. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for the best texture.

Tips:

• For extra crispiness, bake the cookie cups for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• Make sure to drain the ricotta well to avoid a watery filling.
• Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of cookie dough?
   Yes, you can try sugar cookie or shortbread dough for a different flavor.
2. How do I drain the ricotta cheese properly?
   Place the ricotta in a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer over a bowl and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours to drain excess moisture.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the cookie cups and filling separately, then assemble and refrigerate up to a day before serving.
4. Can I substitute mascarpone cheese?
   Cream cheese can be used in place of mascarpone, but the flavor will be slightly tangier.
5. How long will these last in the fridge?
   These Cannoli Cookie Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

These Cannoli Cookie Cups are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert, combining the best of crunchy cookies and smooth cannoli filling. Perfect for any special occasion or when you want to treat yourself to something sweet!