Fruit-Filled Cannoli

Introduction

There’s something magical about biting into a freshly made cannoli, the crisp shell giving way to a creamy, sweet filling. Recently, I decided to take a classic Italian dessert and give it a refreshing twist with fresh fruits. The result? Fruit-Filled Cannoli that delighted my family and guests alike. The balance of creamy ricotta and mascarpone cheese with a variety of colorful fruits is not just visually appealing, but it also offers a burst of flavors that makes every bite an adventure. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a delightful treat at home!

Ingredients

For the Cannoli Shells:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 cup white wine or water
• Oil for frying

For the Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese, drained
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• Mixed fresh fruits (raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, diced peaches, watermelon cubes)
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Prepare the Cannoli Shells

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add Butter: Cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the egg yolk and white wine (or water). Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead and Rest: Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, about 5 minutes. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Cut and Shape: Cut the dough into circles (about 4 inches in diameter). Wrap each circle around a metal cannoli tube, sealing the edges with a bit of water.
7. Fry the Shells: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the wrapped shells until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels. Let them cool completely before removing the tubes.

Make the Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the drained ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Cannoli

1. Pipe the Filling: Using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off, fill the cooled cannoli shells with the cheese mixture.
2. Top with Fresh Fruits: Arrange mixed fresh fruits on top of the filling.

Serve

1. Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Active Time: 1 hour
• Resting Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Arrange the filled cannoli on a serving platter.
• Garnish with powdered sugar and fresh mint.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Filling: For a firmer filling, refrigerate the ricotta mixture for about 30 minutes before piping.
2. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling and adjust the powdered sugar to your preference for sweetness.
3. Fry in Batches: Fry a few cannoli shells at a time to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
4. Prevent Soggy Shells: Fill the cannoli shells just before serving to maintain their crispness.
5. Experiment with Fruits: Try different fruits based on seasonality for varied flavors.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Cannoli: Add cocoa powder to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
• Nutty Touch: Fold in chopped pistachios or almonds into the filling for added crunch.
• Flavored Shells: Mix in some cinnamon or almond extract into the dough for flavored shells.
• Seasonal Fruits: Use seasonal fruits to enhance freshness; for instance, berries in summer or apples in fall.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the cannoli with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo.
• Serve with a side of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
• Offer alongside a cup of espresso or dessert wine for an Italian-inspired treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Shells: Cannoli shells can be fried and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Filling: The filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Assembled Cannoli: It’s best to eat assembled cannoli immediately. If necessary, store filled cannoli in the fridge for no more than a few hours to maintain their texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make the cannoli shells ahead of time?

• Yes, you can make the shells ahead and store them in an airtight container.

1. What can I substitute for white wine?

• You can use water or a flavored soda as a substitute for white wine.

1. Can I bake the cannoli shells instead of frying?

• Baking is possible, but the texture may not be as crisp. Try spraying them with cooking spray and baking at 375°F (190°C) until golden.

1. How do I drain the ricotta cheese?

• Place the ricotta in a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for a few hours to remove excess moisture.

1. What fruits work best for topping?

• Berries, peaches, and watermelon are great options, but you can use any seasonal fruits.

1. How can I make my filling sweeter?

• Add more powdered sugar to taste, or incorporate a touch of honey or maple syrup.

1. Can I use store-bought cannoli shells?

• Yes, store-bought shells can save time and still taste great.

1. How long do filled cannoli last?

• It’s best to eat them within a few hours of filling for the best texture.

1. Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?

• Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips can add a delicious touch to the filling.

1. Is there a gluten-free option for the shells?
   • Yes, you can use gluten-free flour blends to make the shells.

Conclusion

Fruit-Filled Cannoli bring a delightful twist to a beloved Italian classic. With their crunchy shells, creamy filling, and vibrant toppings, they’re sure to impress anyone at your table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate flavors and textures. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make this dessert your own. Enjoy the indulgence!

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