Overview
Cannoli is a beloved Italian dessert that originates from the Sicilian region of Italy. Known for its delectable crunchy pastry shell filled with a sweet, creamy filling, it’s a treat that caters to anyone with a sweet tooth. Perfect for celebrations or simply indulging yourself at home, cannoli have become a symbol of Italian confectionery.
Estimated Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Regional Origin: Sicilian
Ingredients
- For the Cannoli Shells:
- 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 30g (2 tablespoons) sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) white wine or vinegar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) melted butter
- For the Ricotta Filling:
- 450g (2 cups) ricotta cheese
- 100g (1/2 cup) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 50g (1/4 cup) mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Chopped pistachios, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg yolk, melted butter, and wine/vinegar. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into small pieces (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each piece out on a floured surface until very thin (about 1/16 of an inch). Cut into circles (approximately 10cm/4 inches in diameter).
- Fry the Shells: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 180°C (350°F). Carefully wrap each dough circle around a cannoli tube, sealing the edges with a bit of water. Fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in chocolate chips if desired. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the filling watery.
- Fill the Shells: Once the shells have cooled, use a pastry bag to pipe the filling into each shell. Aim to fill both ends for an even distribution of filling.
- Finish and Serve: Dust the cannoli with powdered sugar and sprinkle with chopped pistachios if using. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 4 hours before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond ricotta as a substitute for traditional ricotta cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be aware that the texture may differ slightly.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different fillings such as mascarpone, flavored extracts (like almond or hazelnut), or try incorporating zest from orange or lemon for extra flavor.
Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating
You can make the cannoli shells and filling separately ahead of time. Keep the shells in an airtight container at room temperature and the filling in the fridge. Fill the shells just before serving for the best texture.
If you store filled cannoli in the fridge, they may lose their crunch. To keep them crispy, store shells and filling separately and assemble when ready to serve. Cannoli shells can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and fill before serving.
Nutrition (Approx.)
Per Serving: Caloric content may vary based on specific ingredient brands used, but here are average estimates:
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
Serving Suggestions
Cannoli make an excellent dessert on their own, but can also be paired with:
- A fresh fruit salad for a lighter option.
- Espresso or a sweet dessert wine like Vin Santo to complement its flavors.
- For kids, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
FAQs
- Can I make cannoli shells in advance? Yes, you can make and store the shells in an airtight container for a few days before filling.
- What if my cannoli shells become soft? If not served immediately, store the components separately to maintain crispness.
- Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese? Yes, you can use mascarpone or vegan alternatives as fillings.
- How do I prevent the shells from absorbing oil when frying? Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying, and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Conclusion
Cannoli are an iconic Sicilian dessert that combines rich tradition with delightful flavors. By following these authentic recipes, you can create a delicious end to any meal. Remember to experiment with different flavors and fillings to make them your own. Serve them up with pride and enjoy the sweet satisfaction that comes with mastering this classic dish!
