Classic Italian Dessert - Cannoli Recipe

4 stars
4.01 (17)
Classic Italian Dessert - Cannoli Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 22, 2023

Indulge in the authentic taste of Italy with this delightful homemade cannoli recipe. Crispy, fried pastry shells filled with a creamy, sweet ricotta filling, these cannoli are sure to impress. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat, this recipe is easy to follow and yields fantastic results. Enjoy the timeless flavors of cannoli right in your own home!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
  • 1/4 cup Marsala wine
  • 1 egg white, lightly beaten
  • Oil for frying
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Gradually add the Marsala wine while stirring, until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  3. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles of about 4 inches in diameter.
  4. Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the dough circles into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove the shells from the oil and let them cool on a paper towel-lined plate.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.
  6. Using a piping bag or a small spoon, fill each cooled shell with the ricotta mixture from both ends.
  7. Dust the filled cannoli with powdered sugar and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Cannoli originated in Sicily and are an iconic Italian dessert.
  • Marsala wine is a traditional ingredient in cannoli dough, adding a unique flavor.
  • The word 'cannoli' means 'little tube' in Italian, referring to its shape.
  • Cannoli were traditionally prepared for Carnevale, an Italian festival before the fasting period of Lent.