Print

Easy Cannoli Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 53 reviews

This Easy Cannoli recipe delivers a classic Italian dessert with a creamy ricotta filling enhanced by orange zest, vanilla, candied ginger, and chocolate chips, all served in crispy cannoli shells. Perfect for a sophisticated yet simple treat, it comes together quickly with minimal prep and no baking required.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 16 ounces whole-milk ricotta cheese (454 grams, BelGioioso recommended)
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar (133 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest (6 grams, from ½ orange)
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (2 grams)
  • 1½ tablespoons finely chopped candied ginger (17 grams)
  • ¼ cup semisweet mini chocolate chips (43 grams)

Assembly

  • 8 (5-inch) cannoli shells (or mini cannoli shells)
  • Chopped pistachios (for dipping ends, optional)
  • Chopped mixed nuts (optional)
  • Candied ginger (optional, for garnish)
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Read through the entire instruction list before starting to ensure a smooth process.
  2. Strain Ricotta: Place the ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve and let it drain for 30 minutes if it’s watery to ensure a thick and creamy filling.
  3. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the strained ricotta, sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer on medium-high speed, blend the mixture for 2 minutes until it becomes slightly fluffy.
  4. Add Mix-ins: Gently stir in the finely chopped candied ginger and semisweet mini chocolate chips until evenly combined.
  5. Chill Filling: Transfer the filling to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and for the filling to firm up.
  6. Pipe Filling: Fit a piping bag with a tip slightly smaller than the cannoli shell openings. Fill the piping bag with the chilled filling.
  7. Fill Cannoli Shells: Pipe the filling into one end of each cannoli shell, then turn and fill the other end. For added texture and flavor, dip the ends into chopped pistachios, mixed nuts, or chocolate chips if desired.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, dust the cannolis lightly with powdered sugar and optionally garnish with candied ginger or more chopped nuts.

Notes

  • Straining the ricotta is essential to prevent watery filling and achieve the perfect creamy texture.
  • Use fresh orange zest for the best aroma and flavor enhancement.
  • Filling can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Assemble cannoli just before serving to keep the shells crisp.
  • If cannoli shells are not available, consider using waffle cones as a fun alternative.

Keywords: cannoli, Italian dessert, ricotta filling, easy dessert, no bake cannoli, chocolate chip cannoli, orange zest dessert

Find it online: https://kitchenbyclara.com/easy-cannoli-recipe/