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Cannoli

Cannoli

A classic Sicilian dessert featuring crispy shells filled with sweet, creamy ricotta, and often garnished with chocolate chips or candied fruit.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12 cannoli
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Shells

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (cold, diced)
  • 1 egg yolk
  • ½ cup Marsala wine (or white wine)
  • Marsala wine (or white wine)

For the Filling

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese (drained)
  • ½ cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • ¼ cup candied orange peel (optional)

For Garnish

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Chopped pistachios (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Make the Dough for Shells
    In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    Add the egg yolk and gradually mix in Marsala wine until the dough comes together. Knead until smooth.
    Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Step 2: Roll and Shape the Shells
    Roll the dough out thinly on a floured surface. Cut into 4-inch circles.
    Wrap each circle around a metal cannoli form, sealing the edge with a dab of egg white.
  • Step 3: Fry the Shells
    Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C).
    Fry the shells in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
    Carefully remove from the oil, let them cool slightly, and slide them off the forms.
    Step 4: Prepare the Filling
    In a bowl, mix drained ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
    Fold in mini chocolate chips and candied orange peel, if using.
  • Step 5: Fill and Garnish the Cannoli
    Fill a piping bag with the ricotta mixture and pipe it into each shell.
    Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with pistachios if desired.

Notes

  • Drain the ricotta thoroughly to avoid a runny filling.
  • Cannoli shells can be made ahead of time and filled just before serving.
Keyword Cannoli