If you have a craving for a sweet and crunchy treat, this classic Cannoli recipe is the perfect choice. Crispy pastry shells filled with creamy, sweet ricotta filling, often dotted with chocolate chips or candied orange, create a delightful dessert that’s both indulgent and simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, homemade cannoli will impress everyone with its authentic Italian flavor.
Tips to make the Cannoli recipe:
1. Use High-Quality Ricotta: The filling is the heart of any great cannoli, so make sure to use high-quality, full-fat ricotta cheese. If the ricotta is too watery, drain it using a cheesecloth for a few hours to achieve a thicker consistency.
2. Keep Shells Crisp: Only fill the cannoli shells right before serving. This prevents them from becoming soggy and keeps them nice and crunchy. You can make the shells in advance and store them in an airtight container.
3. Flavor the Filling: For added flavor, mix in a teaspoon of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or some finely grated lemon zest into the ricotta filling. This gives the filling an extra depth of flavor that brings the cannoli to the next level.
4. Use a Piping Bag: Using a piping bag makes filling the cannoli shells much easier and ensures a smooth and even filling. If you don’t have a piping bag, a resealable plastic bag with a corner cut off works as a great alternative.
5. Garnish Creatively: Roll the edges of the filled cannoli in mini chocolate chips, crushed pistachios, or even colorful sprinkles for a fun and festive touch. This not only adds flavor but also makes them look visually appealing.
How to Make Cannoli Recipe?
Cannoli Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large mixing bowl For mixing the dough
- 1 Rolling Pin For rolling out the dough
- 1 Deep fryer or large pot with oil For frying the shells
- 1 Cannoli forms For shaping the shells
- 1 Pastry bag For filling the cannoli
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp Granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter Chilled and cut into small pieces
- 1 large Egg Lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup Marsala wine May substitute with white wine or water
- 2 cups Ricotta cheese Drained
- 3/4 cup Powdered sugar Add more to taste
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Mini chocolate chips Optional
- 1 Orange zest From one orange, optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg and wine, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Wrap dough in plastic and let rest in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into 4-inch circles.
- Wrap each circle around a cannoli form and seal the edges with a bit of beaten egg.
- Fry in preheated oil at 360°F (182°C) until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
- Let the shells cool on paper towels before gently removing the forms.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips and orange zest, if using.
- Transfer the mixture to a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip.
- Pipe the filling into the cooled shells from both ends.
- Dust the filled cannoli with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Making cannoli at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. This classic Italian dessert, with its crispy shell and creamy filling, is sure to impress your family and friends. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, following the steps carefully can help you create delicious cannoli that taste just like they came from a bakery.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings and toppings. You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even fruit to make your cannoli unique. Remember, practice makes perfect, so the more you make them, the better they’ll turn out. Enjoy your homemade cannoli and the joy they bring to your table!
