how to make cannoli

Making cannoli is a delicious Italian dessert that consists of fried pastry shells filled with a sweet ricotta cheese filling. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make cannoli:

Ingredients:

For the Cannoli Shells:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons butter, softened

1 egg yolk

1/2 cup white wine

Vegetable oil for frying

For the Ricotta Filling:

2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

1/4 cup candied orange peel (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cannoli Shells:

a. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.

b. Add the softened butter and egg yolk, and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.

c. Gradually add the white wine and mix until the dough comes together.

d. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it's smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.

e. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

2. Roll and Shape the Cannoli Shells:

a. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin sheet using a rolling pin or pasta machine. The sheets should be about 1/8 inch thick.

b. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.

c. Wrap each circle of dough around a cannoli tube or a metal cannoli form, sealing the edges with a little water.

3. Fry the Cannoli Shells:

a. Heat vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C).

b. Carefully place the cannoli shells in the hot oil, a few at a time.

c. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.

d. Use tongs to remove the shells from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Allow them to cool completely before removing the forms.

4. Prepare the Ricotta Filling:

a. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

b. Fold in the mini chocolate chips and candied orange peel if using.

5. Fill the Cannoli:

a. Fill a pastry bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off with the ricotta filling.

b. Pipe the filling into both ends of each cannoli shell, filling them completely.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

a. Dust the cannoli with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.

b. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Cannoli are best enjoyed fresh.

Enjoy your homemade cannoli! They make for a delightful and sweet treat that's perfect for any occasion.