- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg, Marsala wine, and vinegar, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead for 5 minutes, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Dough
- Roll the dough out thin (about ⅛ inch).
- Use a round cutter (4-inch diameter) to cut circles.
- Wrap each circle around a cannoli tube, sealing with a bit of beaten egg.
Step 3: Fry the Shells
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry shells until golden brown (1-2 minutes).
- Drain on paper towels, then carefully remove the tubes.
Step 4: Make the Cream Filling
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips or pistachios.
Step 5: Fill and Serve
- Transfer filling to a piping bag and fill each cannoli just before serving.
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish as desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Serve fresh with espresso or cappuccino.
- Dip ends in melted chocolate for extra richness.
- Garnish with candied orange peel for a traditional touch.
Storage & Reheating
- Store empty shells in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep filling refrigerated for 2 days.
- Fill cannoli just before serving to maintain crispness.
Variants
- Chocolate Cannoli: Add melted chocolate to the filling.
- Lemon Ricotta: Add lemon zest for a citrusy touch.
- Baked Cannoli Shells: Instead of frying, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the shells.
FAQ
1. Why did my cannoli shells turn out soft?
Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F) and the shells are fried until deep golden brown.
2. Can I use mascarpone instead of ricotta?
Yes! Mascarpone creates a creamier texture, but ricotta is more traditional.
3. How do I keep cannoli crispy?
Fill them right before serving and avoid storing filled cannoli.
4. Can I make cannoli without tubes?
You can shape small cones by wrapping the dough around foil-wrapped wooden spoons.
5. Can I freeze cannoli shells?
Yes! Store unfilled shells in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
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