Description
Cannoli are traditional Italian pastries consisting of crispy, deep-fried shells filled with a rich, creamy ricotta mixture, often garnished with chocolate chips, pistachios, or candied fruit. These delectable desserts are a perfect balance of crunchy and creamy textures, making them a beloved treat for special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional, for a chocolate flavor)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
1 large egg
1/4 cup white wine or Marsala wine
1 tablespoon white vinegar
Vegetable oil, for frying
2 cups ricotta cheese, drained
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Zest of 1 orange (optional)
Chopped pistachios or candied fruit, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and cocoa powder (if using). Add cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add egg, white wine (or Marsala), and vinegar. Mix until dough begins to come together. Add more wine if dough is dry. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic and let rest for 30 minutes.
- For the filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon (if using). Mix until smooth, then stir in chocolate chips and orange zest. Refrigerate until ready to fill.
- Roll the rested dough to 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 4-inch circles. Wrap each around a cannoli tube, sealing with a little water. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry shells in batches until golden brown (2-3 minutes). Drain on paper towels and cool.
- Fill cooled shells with ricotta filling using a piping bag. Garnish ends with chocolate chips, pistachios, or candied fruit if desired.
- Serve immediately, dusted with powdered sugar.
Notes
- Chocolate Cannoli: Add cocoa powder to the shell dough or fill with chocolate ganache for a chocolate twist.
- Mini Cannoli: Pipe smaller shells for bite-sized versions.
- Savory Cannoli: Use ricotta mixed with spinach or cheese for a savory snack.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cannoli
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg