Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pistachio cannoli offer the perfect balance of textures, with the crispy, crunchy shell paired with the smooth, creamy, and slightly sweet filling. The addition of pistachios gives a unique flavor that elevates this classic Italian dessert. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just because, these cannoli will impress your guests and are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients
- 12 cannoli shells
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese, drained
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pistachios
- 2 tbsp orange zest (optional)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and orange zest (if using), making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Spoon the filling into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the tip cut off.
- Carefully pipe the filling into the cannoli shells from both ends until they are fully filled.
- Garnish the ends of the filled cannoli with additional chopped pistachios and mini chocolate chips, if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 cannoli
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes (if serving immediately)
Variations
- Chocolate pistachio cannoli: Add some cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the filling to give it a chocolatey twist.
- Fruit-filled cannoli: Instead of pistachios, fill the cannoli with other fruits like fresh berries or orange segments for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
- Vegan cannoli: Substitute the ricotta with dairy-free alternatives such as cashew cream or coconut milk and use vegan shells for a dairy-free version.
Storage/Reheating
Pistachio cannoli are best served fresh to enjoy the crispy shell. If you have leftovers, store the filling separately from the shells to avoid the shells becoming soggy. You can keep the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shells should be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
When ready to serve, fill the shells just before eating to maintain their crisp texture.
FAQs
How do I keep the cannoli shells crispy?
To keep the cannoli shells crispy, store them separately from the filling and fill them just before serving.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
Are pistachios essential for the flavor?
Yes, pistachios are a key ingredient in this recipe and give the cannoli their signature nutty flavor, but you can substitute with other nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, if preferred.
How do I prevent the filling from being too runny?
Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese thoroughly before using it in the filling. You can also use a fine mesh sieve to drain any excess liquid.
Can I freeze pistachio cannoli?
It’s not recommended to freeze the filled cannoli, as the shells may become soggy. However, you can freeze the filling separately for up to a month and fill the shells fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use store-bought cannoli shells?
Yes, store-bought cannoli shells can save time, but homemade shells will give you a more authentic, fresh flavor.
Can I add extra flavorings to the filling?
Absolutely! You can enhance the filling with ingredients like a splash of amaretto, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a few drops of almond extract.
How do I make sure the cannoli shells are crunchy?
Ensure the shells are fried until golden and crisp. If you’re baking them, make sure to use enough oil and bake at a high temperature for a crunchy result.
How can I make cannoli for a crowd?
You can double or triple the recipe to make more servings. Just make sure you have enough cannoli shells and filling to match the number of people you’re serving.
Are pistachio cannoli gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free cannoli shells, the filling itself is gluten-free, but the overall recipe would need to be made entirely gluten-free.
Conclusion
Pistachio cannoli are a luxurious treat that bring a delicious twist to the classic Italian dessert. With a crunchy shell and creamy, nutty filling, these cannoli are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Simple to make yet impressive in flavor, they’re perfect for those who want to try something new or add a special touch to their next celebration.
