Homemade Cannoli: A Delicious Italian Dessert

Introduction

Cannoli are a classic Italian dessert that consist of crispy fried shells filled with a sweet ricotta cream. They are a favorite among dessert lovers and are often served at special occasions and celebrations. In this blog post, we will show you how to make the perfect homemade cannoli that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the Cannoli Shells:

• 250g all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, diced
• 120ml dry white wine
• 1 egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Cannoli Filling:

• 500g ricotta cheese
• 225g powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 125g mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup candied fruit, chopped

Instructions

Making the Cannoli Shells

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.
2. Add butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add white wine and egg and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Making the Cannoli Filling

1. In a large bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add mini chocolate chips and candied fruit and mix well.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Assembling the Cannoli

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut out circles using a cookie cutter.
3. Wrap each circle around a cannoli form and seal the edges with the beaten egg.
4. Fry the shells in the hot oil until golden brown.
5. Remove from the oil and let them cool on a wire rack.
6. When the shells are cool, gently remove the forms and fill the shells with the ricotta mixture.
7. Dust with powdered sugar and top with chocolate chips and candied fruit.

Variations

Vegetarian Cannoli

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the candied fruit or replace it with diced dried fruit.

Vegan Cannoli

To make this recipe vegan, replace the ricotta cheese with a vegan alternative such as tofu or cashew cream. Use a vegan egg substitute for the beaten egg.

Nutella Cannoli

For a delicious twist on the classic cannoli, replace the ricotta mixture with Nutella. Simply spoon Nutella into the cannoli shells and top with chopped hazelnuts.

Conclusion

Homemade cannoli are a delicious and impressive dessert that are perfect for any occasion. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make your own cannoli at home and impress your guests with your culinary skills. So why not give it a try and enjoy this classic Italian dessert today!

FAQ

What is a Cannoli?

Cannoli is a traditional Italian pastry that consists of a tube-shaped shell made of fried dough, filled with a sweet, creamy filling.

What is the filling made of?

The filling is typically made of ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Some recipes may also include chocolate chips, candied fruit, or other flavorings.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Traditionally, cannoli filling is made with ricotta cheese. However, some recipes may call for mascarpone or cream cheese instead. Keep in mind that using a different type of cheese may change the flavor and texture of the filling.

Do I need any special equipment to make cannoli?

To make cannoli shells, you will need metal cannoli tubes, which can be purchased online or at specialty kitchen stores. You will also need a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot for frying.

Can I make the cannoli shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cannoli shells ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a week. However, it is best to fill them with the ricotta filling just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

How do I prevent the cannoli shells from becoming soggy?

To prevent the shells from becoming soggy, avoid filling them with the ricotta mixture until just before serving. You can also dip the ends of the shells in melted chocolate or a thin layer of melted butter to create a barrier.

Can I freeze cannoli?

It is not recommended to freeze filled cannoli, as the filling may become watery and the shells may become soggy. However, unfilled cannoli shells can be frozen for up to a month.

Can I use pre-made cannoli shells?

Yes, pre-made cannoli shells are available at some grocery stores and specialty food stores. However, homemade shells are typically fresher and have a better texture.

How long will cannoli last?

Cannoli will typically last for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. However, the shells may become soggy over time, so it is best to fill them just before serving.

Can I make a healthier version of cannoli?

To make a healthier version of cannoli, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese and reduce the amount of sugar in the filling. You can also bake the shells instead of frying them to reduce the amount of oil. However, keep in mind that these substitutions may change the flavor and texture of the traditional cannoli.