Authentic Sicilian Cannoli Recipe

Sicilian Cannoli are the epitome of Italian desserts, combining a crispy shell with a creamy, sweet ricotta filling. This recipe is a classic, drawing from the rich culinary traditions of Sicily. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch followed by a burst of creamy sweetness, making these cannoli a beloved treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Have you ever tasted a true Sicilian Cannoli? It's an experience that transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of Sicily. This recipe captures that essence, allowing you to recreate this iconic dessert in your own kitchen.

Perfect for celebrations or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, these cannoli are versatile and can be filled with various ingredients to suit your taste.

Understanding Sicilian Cannoli

Sicilian Cannoli are a traditional Italian dessert known for their unique combination of textures and flavors. They feature a crunchy shell that perfectly encases a creamy ricotta filling, making each bite a delightful experience. Originating from Sicily, these treats have gained popularity worldwide, captivating sweet lovers everywhere.

The Essence of the Cannoli Shell

The crispy shell is the foundation of any great cannoli. Crafted from a simple dough of flour, sugar, and butter, it is rolled thin and shaped around a tube before being deep-fried to golden perfection. This process results in a flaky, crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the smooth ricotta filling.

Creating the Perfect Filling

The filling is where the magic happens. Using ricotta cheese, the mixture is sweetened with powdered sugar and flavored with vanilla, and can be enhanced with a hint of cinnamon or citrus notes. This creamy filling is what makes Sicilian Cannoli truly irresistible, providing that perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Garnishes That Make a Difference

Garnishing your cannoli elevates the presentation and adds exciting flavors. Colorful chocolate chips or pistachios are often used to coat the ends, providing a delightful crunch and a visual appeal. A dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch while enhancing the dessert's sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Sicilian Cannoli as a standout dessert at celebrations or as a delightful treat any day. For the best experience, serve them immediately after filling, allowing you to savor the contrast of textures. You can also refrigerate them briefly for a cool treat, but be mindful that the shells may soften over time.

Why Choose Homemade?

While store-bought options exist, making Sicilian Cannoli from scratch allows for fresh, authentic flavor. Crafting your own ensures control over the ingredients, enabling you to customize the sweetness and flavors to your liking. Plus, the satisfaction derived from creating such a beloved dessert is unparalleled, making it a rewarding culinary endeavor.

The Classic Sicilian Cannoli Recipe

A plate of Sicilian Cannoli filled with ricotta, topped with chocolate chips and pistachios, on a wooden table.

These authentic Sicilian Cannoli feature a flaky pastry shell that is deep-fried to golden perfection, filled with a rich and creamy ricotta mixture, and often garnished with chocolate chips or pistachios. The dessert is sweet yet balanced, with a hint of citrus that elevates the flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

  • For the shell:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup white wine (or vinegar)
  • Oil for frying
  • For the filling:
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese, drained
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios (for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup candied orange peel (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Shell: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add wine and mix until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, wrap in plastic, and let rest for 30 minutes.
  2. Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough thinly. Cut into circles using a 3-inch round cutter. Wrap each circle around a cannoli tube, sealing the edges with a little water.
  3. Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the shells until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels. Let cool completely before removal from the tubes.
  4. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. Adjust sweetness to taste.
  5. Fill the Cannoli: Use a pastry bag to pipe the ricotta filling into each cooled shell. Dip the ends in chocolate chips or pistachios for garnish.
  6. Serve: Enjoy immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate for up to a couple of hours before serving.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 12 cannoli
  • Calories: 250kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g

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