Cannoli

Cannoli are a beloved Italian dessert known for their crispy shells and creamy ricotta filling. Originating from Sicily, these delightful pastries are often adorned with chocolate chips, candied fruit, or pistachios. The contrast of textures and the rich flavors make cannoli an irresistible treat for any occasion. Follow this recipe to create your own batch of these delicious pastries at home!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup white wine or vinegar
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• Oil for frying

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields about 12 cannoli. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each cannolo (serving size: 1 piece) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g of fat, 18g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and cocoa powder.
2. Add softened butter and blend until crumbly.
3. Stir in egg and wine/vinegar until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
5. Wrap in plastic and chill for 1 hour.
6. Roll out the dough thinly and cut into circles.
7. Wrap each circle around a cannoli tube and seal the edges.
8. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
9. Fry the cannoli shells until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
10. Remove and drain on paper towels.
11. In a bowl, mix ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
12. Fill the cooled shells with the ricotta mixture and sprinkle with chocolate chips.

Alternative Ingredients

For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also use mascarpone cheese for a richer filling or replace chocolate chips with candied orange peel for a fruity twist.

Serving and Pairings

Cannoli can be served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of chocolate or fruit sauce. Pair them with a strong espresso or a glass of dessert wine for a perfect finish to any meal.

Storage and Reheating

Cannoli are best enjoyed fresh. Store any unused shells and filling separately in airtight containers. The shells can be kept for up to a week, while the filling should be consumed within three days. Do not freeze the filled cannoli, as the shells will lose their crispness.

Cooking Mistakes

• Don’t overwork the dough; it should be smooth but not tough.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough to prevent soggy shells.
• Seal the edges of the dough well to avoid leaks during frying.
• Let the shells cool completely before filling.
• Don’t fill the cannoli until just before serving to maintain crispness.

Helpful Tips

• Use a pastry bag for easy filling of the shells.
• Experiment with different fillings like chocolate or fruit.
• Chill the filling before use for easier handling.
• Try adding a splash of orange zest for extra flavor.

FAQs

What is the origin of cannoli?

Cannoli originated in Sicily and were traditionally made during Carnevale. They have become a staple of Italian-American cuisine.

Can I make cannoli ahead of time?

You can prepare the shells in advance and store them in an airtight container. Fill them just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone or cream cheese can be used as alternatives, providing a different flavor and texture profile.

How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?

Use a thermometer to check that the oil is at 350°F (175°C). You can also test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should bubble and rise to the surface.

What are some popular variations of cannoli?

Variations include chocolate-dipped ends, different flavored fillings, and toppings like chopped nuts or sprinkles.

Conclusion

Cannoli are a delightful dessert that offers a combination of crunchy and creamy textures, making them a favorite among many. With this easy recipe, you can impress your friends and family by bringing a piece of Italy into your kitchen. Enjoy the process of making these delicious treats and share them with loved ones!

Cannoli

Cannoli are a beloved Italian dessert known for their crispy shells and creamy ricotta filling. These delightful pastries are filled with sweet ricotta and often adorned with chocolate chips.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: cannoli, Italian dessert, pastry, ricotta, chocolate

Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 12 servings

Calories: 150kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons butter softened
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup white wine or vinegar
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• Oil for frying

Instructions

• In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and cocoa powder.
• Add softened butter and blend until crumbly.
• Stir in egg and wine/vinegar until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
• Wrap in plastic and chill for 1 hour.
• Roll out the dough thinly and cut into circles.
• Wrap each circle around a cannoli tube and seal the edges.
• Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the cannoli shells until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
• Remove and drain on paper towels. Fill with ricotta mixture before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g