There’s something magical about a dessert that combines the best of both worlds—a crispy, buttery cookie and a creamy, luscious filling. Cookie cups are that perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just treating yourself, these cookie cups will steal the show.
In this article, you’ll learn how to create these delightful desserts step by step. The best part? They’re keto-friendly, easy to make, and absolutely delicious!
What Makes Cookie Cups So Special?
Cookie cups are more than just cookies. They’re mini masterpieces that let you enjoy the satisfaction of a crisp, flavorful shell filled with a creamy surprise. With this recipe, you’ll take simple ingredients like almond flour, ricotta cheese, and a touch of cinnamon and transform them into a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Ingredients for Cookie Cups
Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to make these delectable treats:
For the Cookie Cups
Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
Almond flour | 2 cups | Provides a nutty, gluten-free base. |
Swerve confectioners’-style sweetener | 1/4 cup | Adds sweetness without the carbs. |
Salt | 1/4 tsp | Balances the flavors. |
Ground cinnamon | 1/4 tsp | Adds warmth and depth. |
Unsalted butter (softened) | 3 tbsp | Creates a tender, crumbly texture. |
Large egg | 1 | Binds the ingredients together. |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances the overall flavor. |
For the Cream Filling
Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
Whole milk ricotta cheese | 1 cup | Provides a creamy, slightly tangy base. |
Heavy whipping cream | 1/3 cup | Adds lightness and a silky texture. |
Swerve confectioners’-style sweetener | 1/4 cup | Sweetens the cream without added sugar. |
Ground cinnamon | Pinch | Complements the cookie cups. |
Vanilla extract | 1/2 tsp | Brings out the sweetness in the cream. |
Lily’s chocolate chips (sugar-free) | 1/4 cup | Adds a touch of chocolatey goodness. |
How to Make Cookie Cups
Let’s walk through the steps to create these delicious cookie cups:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Grease a standard 12-well muffin pan with coconut oil or avocado oil spray to ensure easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Cup Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, Swerve sweetener, salt, and cinnamon.
- Use a hand mixer to blend in the softened butter until a crumbly dough forms.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing just until the dough comes together.
Step 3: Form the Cookie Cups
- Scoop equal portions of the dough into each prepared muffin well.
- Using your fingers, press the dough up the sides of each well to create cup shapes. Aim for about 3/4 of the way up the sides.
- If the dough sticks to your hands, lightly spray your fingers with cooking spray for easier handling.
Step 4: Bake the Cookie Cups
- Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 13–16 minutes, or until the edges of the cookie cups are golden brown.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie cups cool completely in the pan. They’ll crisp up as they cool.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Filling
- While the cookie cups are cooling, strain the ricotta cheese to remove excess liquid. Use folded paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to pat it dry.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Add the Swerve sweetener, cinnamon, ricotta, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Cookie Cups
- Carefully remove the cooled cookie cups from the muffin pan and place them on a cooling rack.
- Transfer the ricotta cream filling to a pastry bag or a zip-top bag with a small corner cut off.
- Pipe the filling into each cookie cup, filling them about 3/4 of the way full.
Step 7: Add the Final Touches
- Top each cookie cup with a teaspoon of sugar-free chocolate chips.
- For an extra garnish, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or add chopped nuts.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cookie Cups
- Use room-temperature butter: This ensures the dough comes together smoothly.
- Chill the dough if needed: If the dough becomes too sticky to work with, pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
- Don’t skip straining the ricotta: This step is crucial to achieving a thick, creamy filling.
- Make ahead for convenience: Bake the cookie cups and prepare the filling separately, then assemble them just before serving for maximum freshness.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per cookie cup (based on 12 servings):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 150 |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Net Carbs | 3g |
Fiber | 2g |
Delicious Variations to Try
- Berry Bliss: Add fresh berries to the cream filling for a fruity twist.
- Nutty Delight: Top the cookie cups with crushed pistachios or toasted almonds.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Mix cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolate-flavored shell.
FAQs About Cookie Cups
1. Can I make these cookie cups dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free ricotta and whipping cream alternatives.
2. How long can I store cookie cups?
Store the cookie cups and filling separately. The cups can last up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature, and the filling can be refrigerated for the same amount of time.
3. Can I freeze cookie cups?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookie cups (without filling) for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before filling.
4. What if I don’t have a pastry bag?
A zip-top bag works just as well. Simply cut a small hole in one corner to pipe the filling.
5. Can I use another flour instead of almond flour?
Coconut flour is a low-carb alternative, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid measurements as it absorbs more moisture.
6. How do I prevent the cookie cups from sticking to the pan?
Grease the muffin pan generously with coconut oil or avocado oil spray to ensure easy removal.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Cookie Cups
Cookie cups are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re not just desserts—they’re edible works of art that combine crispy shells and creamy centers in every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a personal treat, these cookie cups are guaranteed to impress.
Ready to Make Your Own Cookie Cups?
With their easy preparation, rich flavors, and beautiful presentation, these cookie cups are the perfect addition to your dessert repertoire. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let your creativity shine.
Get started today and indulge in the magic of cookie cups—your taste buds will thank you!
PrintCookie Cups: A Delicious Treat with a Creamy Twist
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookie cups
Description
Cookie Cups are the perfect dessert hybrid, featuring a crispy almond flour cookie shell filled with a creamy ricotta and cinnamon-spiced filling. With their delightful texture and flavor, these keto-friendly treats are a hit for any occasion, from parties to a personal indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Cups
- Almond flour (2 cups)
- Swerve confectioners’-style sweetener (1/4 cup)
- Salt (1/4 tsp)
- Ground cinnamon (1/4 tsp)
- Unsalted butter, softened (3 tbsp)
- Large egg (1)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
For the Cream Filling
- Whole milk ricotta cheese (1 cup)
- Heavy whipping cream (1/3 cup)
- Swerve confectioners’-style sweetener (1/4 cup)
- Ground cinnamon (pinch)
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp)
- Lily’s chocolate chips, sugar-free (1/4 cup)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 12-well muffin pan with coconut oil or avocado oil spray.
- Make the Cookie Cup Dough
- In a large bowl, mix almond flour, Swerve sweetener, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add softened butter and blend with a hand mixer until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the dough comes together.
- Shape the Cookie Cups
- Divide the dough evenly among the prepared muffin wells.
- Press the dough up the sides of each well to form a cup shape.
- If the dough sticks, lightly grease your fingers with cooking spray.
- Bake the Cookie Cups
- Bake in the preheated oven for 13–16 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookie cups cool completely in the pan; they will crisp up as they cool.
- Prepare the Cream Filling
- Strain the ricotta cheese using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in Swerve sweetener, cinnamon, ricotta, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble the Cookie Cups
- Gently remove cooled cookie cups from the muffin pan.
- Transfer the cream filling to a pastry bag or zip-top bag with a small corner cut off.
- Pipe the filling into each cookie cup, filling about 3/4 of the way.
- Add Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle a few sugar-free chocolate chips on top of each cookie cup.
- Garnish with a pinch of cinnamon or chopped nuts if desired.
Notes
- Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too sticky, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes.
- Ricotta Prep: Straining the ricotta ensures a thick, creamy filling.
- Storage Tips: Store cookie cups and filling separately for freshness. Assemble just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American