When the world outside is gray and chilly, there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of homemade cannoli wafting through the kitchen. I discovered the joy of crafting these delightful Italian pastries during a cozy weekend spent with friends, eager to step away from the usual meals. With their heavenly crispy shells and creamy ricotta filling, cannoli are the ultimate treat that brings a taste of Sicily right to your home.
The best part? You can easily make them your own! Whether you crave a hint of chocolate or a dash of citrus zest, these treats are infinitely customizable. Not overly sweet, they’re perfect for serving at gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon. Join me as I guide you through the delightful process of creating these traditional Italian gems—your dessert game is about to get a delicious upgrade!
Why is this cannolis recipe a must-try?
Homemade delight: There’s nothing like the satisfaction of creating your own cannoli from scratch!
Crispy and Creamy: Enjoy the delightful contrast of a crunchy shell filled with smooth, rich ricotta.
Customizable Flavors: Tailor the filling with chocolate chips or citrus zest for a personal touch.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your friends and family with these classic Italian pastries, making them the star of any dessert table.
Easily manageable: This recipe simplifies the cannoli-making process, ensuring it’s approachable for all skill levels.
Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or a cozy afternoon at home, these cannoli fit right in!
Cannolis Recipe Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – This is essential for structure; make sure to measure accurately for the perfect dough.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors; can be reduced if you prefer less sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; for a dairy-free twist, consider vegetable shortening as a substitute.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dough; use half as much if switching to table salt.
- Marsala Wine – Imparts a lovely flavor and moisture; feel free to use any dry white wine as a substitute.
- Egg (Whole) and Egg Yolk – Acts as a binding agent, ensuring the dough holds together well.
For the Filling
- Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – The star ingredient for a creamy filling; make sure to strain it well to avoid sogginess.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and provides a smooth texture to the filling; confectioners’ sugar is ideal.
- Vanilla Extract – Boosts the flavor; while optional, it’s highly recommended to enhance the filling’s profile.
Optional Add-ins
- Chocolate Chips – Add a delightful chocolatey texture and flavor for a sweet surprise!
- Zest (Lemon or Orange) – A sprinkle of citrus zest introduces a refreshing twist to the classic taste.
- Chopped Nuts – Incorporate crushed pistachios or almonds for added crunch and flavor depth.
With this cannolis recipe, you’re all set to create something truly special!
How to Make Cannolis
Prepare the Dough: In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, and salt until combined. Add cold butter and pulse until crumbled. Incorporate the whole egg, yolk, and Marsala wine until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 2-4 minutes until smooth. Rest in a lightly oiled bowl for 1 hour.
Fry the Shells: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a pot. Roll the rested dough as thin as possible (1/8 to 1/16 inch) and cut into 4-inch rounds. Brush cannoli forms with oil, wrap dough around, and seal with egg white. Fry until golden brown, about 1 minute per side, then let cool completely.
Make the Filling: Strain ricotta overnight. When ready, whip it with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Optional: fold in chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor. Fill cooled shells with the ricotta mixture using a piping bag, making sure not to overfill.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cannolis Recipe Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity and customize these delicious treats to suit your taste buds!
Flavor Boosts: Add lemon or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus kick that enhances the creamy richness.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks into the ricotta for an indulgent twist that will delight chocoholics.
Nutty Variation: Fold in finely chopped pistachios or almonds for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet ricotta.
Fruit Infusion: Mix in diced candied fruit such as cherries or figs to unite sweetness with a chewy texture, reminiscent of classic Italian pastries.
Spiced Adventure: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the ricotta filling for a warm spice note that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Coffee Lovers: Infuse the filling with espresso or brewed coffee for an irresistible caffeine kick that adds depth to your cannoli.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a suitable dough alternative while still enjoying the same delightful experience.
Dessert Dip: Transform your cannoli into a dip by mixing the filling ingredients with softened cream cheese, served with graham cracker sticks for a fun twist!
Make Ahead Options
These cannolis recipe are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The ricotta filling can also be made ahead, lasting for up to 3 days in the fridge (just stir it again before filling for the best texture). For an effortless finish, fry the shells just before serving and fill them with the chilled ricotta mixture. This ensures the shells remain crispy while the filling is incredibly fresh, delivering the same delightful taste and texture as if made last minute. Your guests will never know you prepped ahead!
What to Serve with Homemade Cannoli?
When it comes to elevating your dessert experience, pairing is key for a complete indulgence.
Espresso: The rich, bold flavor of espresso beautifully complements the creamy sweetness of cannoli, enhancing the dining experience.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries offer a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the filling, making each bite more vibrant.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your cannoli adds a decadent twist that pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness of ricotta.
Amaretto Liqueur: This almond-flavored liqueur brings out the traditional Italian nuances in cannoli while adding a sophisticated touch to your dessert table.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream can enhance the overall texture, creating a delightful contrast with the crispy shell and creamy filling.
Citrus Sorbet: A scoop of lemon or orange sorbet adds a bright, fruity flavor that cleanses the palate and refreshes the senses between bites of cannoli.
Pistachio Crumbles: Topping your cannoli with crushed pistachios not only adds a nutty flavor but also a lovely crunch that elevates the overall texture experience.
Coffee-Cocoa Brownies: For an extra sweet treat, serve fudgy brownies alongside your cannoli for a delightful mix of textures and flavors at the dessert spread.
How to Store and Freeze Cannolis
Room Temperature: Store unfilled shells at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their crispiness before filling.
Fridge: Filled cannolis should be enjoyed within 1-2 hours for the best texture; if you must store them, keep in the fridge for up to 3 hours.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled shells for up to 2 months. Wrap securely in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To refresh leftover shells, place them in a warm oven (around 300°F) for 5-10 minutes before filling them with your cannolis recipe mixture.
Expert Tips for the Best Cannolis
Strain the Ricotta: Always strain your ricotta overnight to avoid a soggy filling, ensuring a perfectly balanced texture in your cannolis recipe.
Correct Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for crispy shells. Use an instant thermometer for best results; too cool and they won’t fry properly.
Batch Frying: Frying in small batches (4-5 at a time) helps keep the oil temperature consistent and prevents the shells from becoming greasy.
Fill Before Serving: To keep the shells crispy, fill them just before serving. Overfilled or pre-filled cannoli can lose their delightful crunch quickly.
Customize with Care: Feel free to experiment with the filling, but ensure that added ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts are properly balanced in flavor without overwhelming the creamy ricotta.
Homemade Cannoli Recipe FAQs
What type of ricotta should I use?
It’s best to use whole milk ricotta cheese for a rich and creamy filling. Make sure to strain it overnight; this step is crucial to prevent sogginess in your cannoli. If you prefer, you can substitute with mascarpone cheese for a smoother texture.
How should I store leftover cannoli?
Filled cannoli are best enjoyed right away; however, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 hours. For unfilled shells, keep them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their crispiness.
Can I freeze cannoli shells?
Absolutely! To freeze unfilled cannoli shells, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and you can warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5-10 minutes to restore some crispness before filling.
What if my dough is too dry or too sticky?
If your dough feels too dry, try adding a teaspoon of water or Marsala wine gradually until it comes together. If it’s too sticky, dust with a bit more flour while kneading. Remember, a good dough should be smooth and elastic.
Is this cannoli recipe suitable for people with food allergies?
This recipe contains gluten and dairy, which may not be suitable for those with gluten or lactose intolerances. You can experiment with gluten-free all-purpose flour for the dough and opt for dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream for the filling. Always check labels for allergens if you’re cooking for someone with specific dietary needs.
How can I customize my cannoli filling?
The filling can be easily adjusted to your liking! You can fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture. For a creative twist, try infusing flavors like lemon zest, almond extract, or coffee to make it distinctly yours.
Delicious Cannolis Recipe: Crispy Shells, Creamy Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, and salt until combined. Add cold butter and pulse until crumbled. Incorporate the whole egg, yolk, and Marsala wine until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 2-4 minutes until smooth. Rest in a lightly oiled bowl for 1 hour.
- Heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a pot. Roll the rested dough as thin as possible (1/8 to 1/16 inch) and cut into 4-inch rounds. Brush cannoli forms with oil, wrap dough around, and seal with egg white. Fry until golden brown, about 1 minute per side, then let cool completely.
- Strain ricotta overnight. When ready, whip it with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Optional: fold in chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor. Fill cooled shells with the ricotta mixture using a piping bag, making sure not to overfill.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful presentation.