Cannoli Recipe
Pinklady
Cannoli, the delightful Italian pastry, is a perfect combination of crispy shells filled with a creamy, sweet ricotta filling. Originating from the Sicilian region of Italy, cannoli have become a beloved dessert worldwide.
Prep Time 45 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Course Snack
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 200 kcal
For the Shells:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup white wine (Marsala wine can also be used)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese, drained
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped (optional)
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.Incorporate Butter: Add the cold butter pieces and mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat the egg and add it to the mixture along with the wine. Mix until a dough forms.Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth, about 5 minutes. Rest the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
Shaping and Frying the ShellsRoll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.Cut the Dough: Use a pastry cutter or knife to cut circles of dough, approximately 4 inches in diameter. Shape the Shells: Wrap each circle around a cannoli mold, sealing the edges with a bit of beaten egg.Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry the Shells: Fry the dough-wrapped molds in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.Cool and Remove: Let the shells cool slightly before carefully removing the molds. Preparing the FillingMix the Ricotta and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth. Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract. If using, fold in the mini chocolate chips and candied orange peel.Chill the Filling: Place the filling in the refrigerator to chill for about 30 minutes. Filling the CannoliPrepare the Piping Bag: Fill a piping bag with the ricotta mixture.Fill the Shells: Pipe the filling into each end of the cannoli shells, filling them completely. Garnish and Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before serving. You can also dip the ends in extra chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture.