Cannoli(Dessert)
Crispy, golden cannoli shells filled with sweet, creamy ricotta cheese make a classic Italian dessert perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, shortening, salt, and sugar to form a dough.
- Add enough wine or water to make a stiff, workable dough.
- Roll into a ball and let stand for 1 hour.
- Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut into 5-inch squares and wrap around short cannoli tubes so that opposite corners meet.
- Fry in deep fat until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier cannoli shell, consider substituting half of the shortening with cold butter. If you don't have wine, you can use white vinegar mixed with water for a similar effect. Ensure the oil is hot enough for frying by testing with a small piece of dough; it should bubble and brown quickly. For a flavorful twist, add a splash of vanilla extract to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Fill cannoli shells with sweet ricotta or mascarpone cream and dust with powdered sugar before serving. They pair beautifully with Italian recipes, such as a rich Chocolate Mousse or a refreshing Italian Slaw Dressing. For an indulgent dessert platter, serve alongside fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Cannoli shells can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you've filled them with cream or ricotta, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the unfilled shells in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cannoli(Dessert) contains roughly 113 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 492mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cannoli dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out. This helps achieve the right texture for shaping and frying.
What fillings can I use for cannoli?
While traditional cannoli are filled with sweet ricotta cheese, you can explore other fillings like mascarpone, pastry cream, or even chocolate ganache. For a vegan option, try using a blend of silken tofu and sweetener for a creamy texture.
How do I prevent the cannoli from becoming soggy?
To keep the cannoli crispy, fill them just before serving. If you're making them in advance, store the shells and filling separately. This prevents moisture from the filling from softening the shells.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).