Italian Cannoli are a beloved dessert that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. These crispy pastry shells filled with creamy ricotta cheese and chocolate chips are a true treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, cannoli are sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
Making cannoli at home is a fun and rewarding experience. You get to enjoy the fresh, delicious flavors of creamy ricotta and crispy shells while customizing the filling just the way you like it. Plus, they make a beautiful presentation for any gathering or dinner party. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating this classic Italian dessert from scratch.
How to Make Italian Cannoli
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 12 cannoli shells
- Oil for frying
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
- Using a pastry bag, fill the cannoli shells with the ricotta mixture.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or pan to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the shells until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and serve.
How to Serve Italian Cannoli
Serve Italian Cannoli as a delightful dessert after dinner. You can place them on a beautiful platter and sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Pair them with a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine for a perfect end to your meal.
How to Store Italian Cannoli
To store cannoli, keep the filling and shells separate. You can store the ricotta filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The uncooked cannoli shells can be stored in a cool, dry place. If you have leftover filled cannoli, they should be eaten within a few hours to maintain their crispiness.
Tips to Make Italian Cannoli
- Make sure to use whole milk ricotta for a richer flavor.
- Do not overfill the shells to prevent them from bursting.
- Fry in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature.
- Chill the filling in the fridge for a bit before using it for a sturdier consistency.
Variation
You can try different variations of cannoli by adding flavors like cinnamon or orange zest to the ricotta mixture. You can also dip the ends of the filled shells in chopped nuts or more chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought cannoli shells?
Yes, store-bought cannoli shells are a great time-saver. You can focus on making the delicious filling.
2. How can I make the filling sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter filling, simply add more powdered sugar to taste.
3. Can I freeze the filled cannoli?
It is not recommended to freeze filled cannoli, as the shells may become soggy. Instead, freeze the shells and fill them fresh when you’re ready to eat them.
