Ingredients
Scale
- 12 cannoli shells (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, drained
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- Pinch of salt
For homemade shells:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons cold butter
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed for dough)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Drain the Ricotta: Place the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl. Let it drain for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture and achieve a thick, creamy texture.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the drained ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, chopped pistachios, orange zest, and mini chocolate chips. Stir gently until smooth and well blended. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the Dough (if making shells): Mix flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add cold butter and rub it between your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add vinegar and water until the dough comes together.
- Rest and Roll the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. Once chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until thin. Cut out circles approximately 4 inches wide.
- Form the Shells: Wrap each dough circle around a metal cannoli mold, sealing the edges with a dab of water to prevent opening during frying.
- Fry the Shells: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry each shell for about 2–3 minutes or until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels. Let cool completely before sliding off the molds.
- Fill the Shells: Spoon the chilled filling into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Insert the tip into one end of each shell and pipe until filled through to the other side. Repeat for all shells.
- Garnish and Serve: Dip both ends of each filled cannoli into extra chopped pistachios. Arrange them neatly on a serving platter and dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Always fill shells just before serving to maintain crispness.
You can adjust sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar.
Substitute ricotta with dairy-free alternatives if preferred.
For a richer flavor, add a small amount of orange or lemon zest.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 15