Description
Sicilian cannoli bring creamy ricotta magic to dessert lovers, offering a perfect balance of smooth cheese and sweet indulgence. Crisp pastry shells cradle this luxurious filling, inviting you to savor each delightful Mediterranean-inspired bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 12 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
Spices and Flavor Enhancers:
- 13 cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 12 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 12 teaspoon ground cloves
- 12 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange or lemon zest
Liquid and Additional Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 12 cup (120 ml) milk
- 12 cup (80 g) mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 12 cups (180 g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or orange juice
- 12 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Colored sprinkles
- Chopped nuts
Instructions
- Craft a smooth, luscious mixture by thoroughly blending ricotta cheese, ensuring all moisture is drained using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to prevent watery filling.
- Incorporate powdered sugar gradually into the ricotta, whisking consistently to create a velvety, uniform texture without any lumps.
- Fold in finely chopped dark chocolate and fragrant orange zest, distributing ingredients evenly throughout the creamy base.
- Enhance the filling’s complexity by introducing a delicate splash of marsala wine or vanilla extract, which will elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Gently mix candied citrus peels or chopped pistachios into the mixture, providing delightful textural contrast and additional aromatic dimensions.
- Cover the cannoli filling with plastic wrap, pressing directly onto the surface to prevent skin formation, and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
- Before serving, give the filling a quick stir to reincorporate any separated liquid and ensure a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Transfer the chilled filling into a piping bag fitted with a wide tip, preparing to fill crisp cannoli shells just before presenting, maintaining optimal crispness and freshness.
- For optimal taste and texture, consume filled cannoli within a few hours of assembly to preserve the delicate balance between the crisp shell and creamy interior.
Notes
- Customize the chocolate intensity by adjusting cocoa powder quantity, making the cookies darker or lighter based on preference.
- Experiment with alternative flours like almond or gluten-free blends to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising texture.
- Add warming spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique flavor profile that elevates the traditional cookie taste.
- Use plant-based butter and egg substitutes to create a vegan-friendly version that maintains the original recipe’s richness and moisture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg