Cannoli: A Classic Sicilian Delight
Cannoli are iconic Italian pastries with crispy, golden shells filled with a rich, sweetened ricotta filling. These treats are perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of crunchy and creamy textures.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 2 hours (including resting, frying, and assembly)
- Yield: 8-12 cannoli (depending on size)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional, for a chocolate-flavored shell)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- ½ cup dry white wine (or water)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk, well-drained)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 tablespoons candied orange peel or lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
For the cannoli shells: Mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder (if using), and salt in a bowl. Add cubed butter and mix until coarse crumbs form. Add egg yolk, vinegar or lemon juice, and white wine. Stir to combine and form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes. Roll dough out thinly and cut into 3-4 inch circles. Wrap each circle around a metal cannoli tube, sealing edges with water.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry the shells for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels. Cool completely before removing from tubes.
- For the filling: Drain ricotta if necessary. Mix ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth. Add mini chocolate chips and candied peel or zest for added flavor.
- Fill the cooled cannoli shells with the ricotta filling using a pastry bag or spoon. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with extra chocolate chips or candied fruit if desired.
Notes
- For the best result, fill the cannoli shells just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Store the shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can customize the filling with flavored extracts, such as almond or citrus, or substitute with mascarpone for a different texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cannoli
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cannoli-a-classic-sicilian-delight/
