Cannoli—a classic Italian dessert with crispy pastry shells and rich, creamy ricotta filling—has delighted dessert lovers for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious home cook, learning how to make this indulgent treat at home can truly transform your cooking with this cannoli recipe!
Loved in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, cannoli are versatile: they make perfect party treats, festive desserts, or simply a sweet reward after a meal. In this guide, you’ll discover a step-by-step approach, tips for perfection, and creative twists to elevate your baking skills.
Why Cannoli Are a Must-Try Dessert
Cannoli have remained iconic because they:
Offer a perfect balance of crunchy pastry and creamy filling
Are highly customizable with chocolate, nuts, or candied fruit
Make any meal feel festive and special
Provide a hands-on, rewarding baking experience
If you’re ready to transform your cooking with this cannoli recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get creative.
Ingredients for Perfect Cannoli
For the Shells:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
¼ tsp salt
3 tbsp unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
½ cup Marsala wine (or white wine)
Oil for frying
For the Filling:
2 cups ricotta cheese (drained)
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios (optional)
Step-by-Step Cannoli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shell Dough
Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add wine gradually, mixing until a firm dough forms.
Knead lightly and let rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Roll and Shape the Shells
Roll the dough thin (about 1/8 inch thick).
Cut into 4–5 inch circles.
Wrap each circle around a cannoli tube, sealing edges with a little water.
Step 3: Fry the Shells
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the shells until golden brown (2–3 minutes per side).
Drain on paper towels and carefully remove the tubes once cooled.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, mix ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Fold in chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, or citrus zest if desired.
Step 5: Fill the Cannoli
Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each shell just before serving.
Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with extra chocolate chips or nuts.
Voilà! You’ve now transformed your cooking with this cannoli recipe!
Tips for the Best Cannoli
Drain ricotta well: Excess moisture makes the filling runny
Fill just before serving: Keeps shells crisp
Experiment with flavors: Orange zest, coffee, or liqueur can add unique twists
Use quality chocolate: Enhances the overall richness of the dessert
Creative Cannoli Variations
Chocolate Shell Cannoli: Add cocoa powder to the dough
Mini Cannoli: Perfect bite-sized treats for parties
Fruit-Filled Cannoli: Fold in finely chopped candied fruits or berries
Nutty Delight: Coat ends with chopped pistachios or almonds
These variations make it easy to transform your cooking with this cannoli recipe in exciting ways.
Serving and Storage
Serve immediately for the best texture
Store shells separately from filling to maintain crispness
Filled cannoli can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours
Why This Cannoli Recipe Works Every Time
By following these steps, you get:
Crispy, golden shells
Smooth, creamy filling
Endless customization options
A dessert that impresses family and friends
It’s no wonder home bakers everywhere are eager to transform their cooking with this cannoli recipe!
Conclusion
Cannoli are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. From the first crisp bite to the sweet, creamy filling, mastering this recipe allows you to elevate your cooking skills and delight everyone at your table.
Now that you know how to transform your cooking with this cannoli recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves, fry those shells, and enjoy the sweet rewards of homemade Italian indulgence. 🍫🌿