Cannoli (Shell and Filling Recipes)

Cannoli (Shell and Filling Recipes)

Cannoli are a classic Italian dessert featuring crispy pastry shells filled with a sweet, creamy ricotta filling. Making them from scratch is a rewarding process! Here’s how to make both the shells and the filling.

Cannoli Shells

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate shells)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon white wine or vinegar
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• Ice water (as needed)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cocoa powder (if using), and cinnamon. Mix well.
   • Add the egg, butter, and wine or vinegar. Mix until the dough comes together. If needed, add ice water a tablespoon at a time until the dough is smooth and elastic.
2. Knead and Rest:
   • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
3. Roll and Cut:
   • After resting, divide the dough into 4 portions. Roll out one portion at a time (keeping the others covered) to about 1/8-inch thick.
   • Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut out circles from the rolled dough.
4. Shape the Shells:
   • Wrap each dough circle around a metal cannoli tube, overlapping the edges slightly. Use a little water to seal the edges.
5. Fry the Shells:
   • Heat the oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the cannoli tubes into the oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Remove from oil and carefully slide the shells off the tubes. Drain on paper towels and let cool.

Cannoli Filling

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (drained)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios
• Zest of 1 orange or lemon (optional)
• 1 tablespoon milk or cream (if needed for consistency)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ricotta:
   • Ensure the ricotta cheese is well-drained; you can place it in a fine mesh sieve for a couple of hours to remove excess moisture.
2. Mix the Filling:
   • In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and zest (if using). Mix until smooth. Adjust sweetness with more sugar if needed.
   • Fold in the mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios.
3. Chill:
   • Cover and refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Assemble the Cannoli

1. Fill the Shells:
   • Use a pastry bag or a plastic bag with a corner snipped off to fill each cooled cannoli shell with the ricotta filling. Fill generously but not overflowing.
2. Garnish:
   • Dip the ends of the filled cannoli in extra mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios. Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
3. Serve:
   • Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Enjoy your homemade cannoli!

Tips:

• Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the correct temperature for frying. If the oil is too hot, the shells will burn; if it’s too cold, they will absorb too much oil.
• Shell Variations: Experiment with adding cocoa powder to the dough for chocolate shells or incorporating flavors like almond or lemon.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the shells and filling in advance, but fill them just before serving to maintain their crispness.

Enjoy your delicious homemade cannoli!