Cannoli Recipe

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Cannoli is one of those desserts that brings a little piece of Italy right to your kitchen.

This crispy pastry filled with a creamy, sweet filling is simply irresistible.

Making cannoli from scratch might sound intimidating, but trust me, it’s easier than you think! Follow along, and I’ll guide you through each step to create these delicious treats that your friends and family will adore.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This cannoli recipe is not only authentic but also adaptable to fit your taste.

The crunchy shell and creamy filling combination make them a perfect dessert for any occasion, from family gatherings to dinner parties.

With every bite, you’ll experience a delightful crunch followed by a burst of sweet creaminess that will make you feel like you’re enjoying a slice of Italy.

Plus, you get to make them right at home, and I assure you, the taste is worth the effort!

Ingredients

• 2 ⅓ cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons (42 g) unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup (60 ml) Marsala vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar/Grape Juice for non-alcoholic version
• 1 egg or egg white, for sealing

How To Make Cannoli Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl.

Give it a good stir to combine the dry ingredients.

Next, add the cold, diced butter into the flour mixture.

Use your hands or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the large egg and Marsala vinegar (or your non-alcoholic substitute).

Pour this mixture into your flour mixture.

Stir together until the dough starts to come together.

It might be a little crumbly at first, but that’s okay!

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Once the dough has formed, transfer it to a floured surface and knead it gently.

Aim for about 5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

Wrap the kneaded dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

This resting period will help the gluten relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has rested, dust your work surface with a bit of flour.

Roll the dough out thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.

It’s important to keep the dough as thin as possible for that perfect crispy shell.

Use a round cutter or a glass to cut the dough into circles, roughly 4 to 5 inches in diameter.

Step 5: Wrap the Cannoli Shells

Take one of the dough circles and wrap it around a metal cannoli tube.

Make sure to overlap the edges slightly.

Use a little egg or egg white to seal the edges so they don’t come apart during frying.

Repeat this with the remaining dough circles.

Step 6: Fry the Cannoli

In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

Fry the wrapped cannoli shells in the hot oil until they are golden brown, typically about 2 to 3 minutes.

Make sure to fry a few at a time, turning them as needed for an even cook.

Once they’re done, use tongs to carefully remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Make the Filling (Optional Step)

While the cannoli shells are cooling, you can prepare your filling.

There are so many options, but a classic ricotta cheese mixture is wonderful.

Simply mix together ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and a little vanilla extract.

You can also add mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios for a special touch.

Step 8: Fill the Cannoli

Once the shells are completely cool, carefully remove them from the tubes.

Use a piping bag or a small spoon to fill them with your desired filling.

Be generous, but don’t overstuff them, or they might burst!

Step 9: Dust and Serve

To finish off your cannoli, dust them lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy them fresh for the best flavor, and don’t forget to snap a few pictures!

Expert Tips

• Make sure the dough is rolled out thinly. A thicker dough will result in soft shells rather than crispy ones.
• Let the filled cannoli sit for a bit in the refrigerator if you’re preparing them ahead of time. It helps meld the flavors.
• If you want to add flavor to your shells, consider mixing cocoa powder or cinnamon into the dough.
• To avoid soggy cannoli, fill them just before serving. Keep the shells and filling separate until you’re ready to enjoy!

Variations and Customizations

• Try incorporating different flavors into the filling, like espresso, chocolate, or even citrus zest for a fresh twist.
• For a more vibrant look, dip the ends of the filled cannoli in melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped nuts or sprinkles.
• For a healthier twist, consider using a lighter filling made with mascarpone cheese mixed with Greek yogurt.
• Mix in some seasonal fruits or dried fruits into your filling for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the filling and shells separately in airtight containers.

The shells can stay crisp for a couple of days, while the filling will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

Just remember to fill the shells right before you serve to keep that delightful crunch!

FAQ

Can I make cannoli shells in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the cannoli shells ahead of time.

Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature after frying until you’re ready to fill them.

What can I use instead of Marsala wine?

If you prefer not to use Marsala wine, apple cider vinegar or grape juice are great non-alcoholic substitutes that will work well in this recipe.

Can I bake cannoli instead of frying?

While frying is the traditional method for making cannoli, you can bake them by using a similar dough and wrapping it around metal tubes.

Brush them with a bit of melted butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of dough.

If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is hot enough.

Always be cautious when frying!

Conclusion

Now that you’re equipped with this delightful cannoli recipe, it’s time to get in the kitchen and start creating! With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you will be rewarded with a sweet treat that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re enjoying them at a family gathering or just treating yourself, homemade cannoli are a joy to make and a delight to eat.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in these crispy, creamy pastries.

Happy baking!

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