Why You’ll Love This Cannoli Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this cannoli recipe because it combines a crispy, perfectly fried shell with a rich, creamy filling that bursts with flavor.
Every bite transports me to a quaint Italian café, where the sweet aroma of freshly made pastries fills the air. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the velvety ricotta filling is simply irresistible.
I can’t help but smile as I savor each delightful morsel. Plus, making them at home allows me to customize the flavors just the way I like.
Trust me, once you try these cannoli, they’ll become a staple in your dessert repertoire!
Ingredients of Cannoli
When it comes to making cannoli, the ingredients are simple yet essential for that authentic taste that makes you feel like you’re enjoying a bite of Italy. You’ll need some basic pantry staples, a few unique items, and, of course, the star of the show—ricotta cheese.
Trust me, the quality of your ingredients can really elevate this dessert from “just okay” to “you have to try this” levels of deliciousness. Ready to gather your goodies? Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful treats.
Ingredients for Cannoli:
- For the Shell:
- 4 cups sifted flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 cup red wine
- 1 egg yolk, beaten slightly
- For the Filling:
- 3 lbs ricotta cheese
- 1 3/4 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons minced candied citron peel or 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (of your choice)
Now, let’s talk about the ricotta cheese for a second. It’s kind of the backbone of the filling. If you grab a tub of ricotta from the store, make sure it’s the kind that’s not too watery.
A watery ricotta will lead to a filling that’s more like soup than creamy delight. If you find yourself with a runny ricotta, no worries—just drain it in cheesecloth over a bowl in the fridge. Let it hang out for a few hours, and it will be perfect for filling those crispy shells.
And, hey, don’t skip the cinnamon; it adds that warm, comforting flavor that makes every bite feel like a hug. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get ready to make some cannoli magic.
How to Make Cannoli
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful world of making cannoli. First up, we’ll tackle the shell. You’ll want to start with 4 cups of sifted flour, then add in 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon. It’s like a little party of dry ingredients on your countertop.
Make a well in the center and pour in 3/4 cup of red wine. I know, it sounds a bit odd, but trust me—it’s what gives those shells their distinct flavor. Now, stir from the center out like you’re trying to coax a shy cat out of hiding. Once it’s mixed, knead that dough for about 15 minutes until it’s smooth and stiff. If it’s a bit sticky, don’t panic! Just knead in a little extra flour.
After working up a mini sweat, cover your dough with a warm bowl and let it rest for two hours. This is a good time to sip on a glass of red wine yourself—after all, you deserve it.
Once your dough has had its beauty rest, roll it out as thin as paper. Seriously, you want it to be super thin. Cut out five-inch rounds, and here comes the fun part: wrapping each round around a metal cannoli tube. Make sure to leave about 1/4 of the tube sticking out on each end. Seal the edges with a little beaten egg yolk.
Now, it’s time for a hot oil bath. Fry those wrapped beauties in deep hot fat for about a minute, flipping them until they’re golden brown. Just be careful; they can be a bit temperamental when you’re trying to lift them out. Once drained on absorbent paper, let them cool before gently removing the tubes.
Now, let’s talk filling. Grab 3 lbs of ricotta cheese and beat it in a blender or bowl until it’s light and creamy. Add in 1 3/4 cups of sifted confectioners’ sugar and another 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, mixing until everything is thoroughly blended.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can toss in 2 tablespoons of minced candied citron peel or your favorite chopped nuts—just don’t go overboard, or you’ll lose that classic cannoli vibe. Fill a pastry bag with the filling and pipe it into each cooled shell. Dust with some powdered sugar for that finishing touch.
And remember, filled shells are best enjoyed fresh, so don’t let them sit around too long. Enjoy your homemade cannoli—who knew you could whip up a little slice of Italy right in your kitchen?
Cannoli Substitutions & Variations
While traditional cannoli are delicious, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can elevate this classic dessert.
For the filling, I love using mascarpone instead of ricotta for a creamier texture. You can also add different flavors like orange zest or espresso to give it a unique twist.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try filling the shells with pastry cream or even whipped cream for a lighter option.
For the shells, consider using chocolate dough for a richer taste. You can also experiment with different nuts, like pistachios or hazelnuts, for a delightful crunch.
Enjoy creating your perfect cannoli!
What to Serve with Cannoli
What pairs well with cannoli? I love to serve them alongside a rich espresso or a creamy cappuccino. The bold coffee flavors really complement the sweet, ricotta-filled shells.
For a lighter touch, a revitalizing glass of limoncello or a citrus sorbet can be delightful. If you want to elevate the dessert experience, consider adding fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top always looks appealing too. These options not only enhance the cannoli but also create a beautiful dessert spread that guests will adore. Enjoy your delicious creations!
Additional Tips & Notes
When making cannoli, it’s essential to pay attention to the details for the best results.
First, confirm your ricotta is well-drained; a watery filling can ruin your dessert. I often let it strain overnight in cheesecloth.
When frying the shells, maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F to achieve that perfect crunch.
If you’re using flavored fillings, balance sweetness to avoid overpowering the delicate shell.
Finally, fill the shells just before serving to keep them crispy.
Trust me, these little tricks can elevate your cannoli from good to extraordinary! Enjoy sharing this treat with friends and family!