Homemade Italian Cannoli with Ricotta Cream Filling

Prep Time

• Prep: 40 minutes

• Cook: 15 minutes

• Chill: 1 hour

Servings

Makes 10–12 cannoli.

Ingredients

For the Cannoli Shells

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cold

• 1 egg yolk

• 1/2 cup sweet Marsala wine (or white grape juice)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Oil for frying

For the Ricotta Filling

• 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

Toppings

• Crushed pistachios

• Mini chocolate chips

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.

2. Cut in the cold butter until crumbly.

3. Add egg yolk, vanilla, and Marsala wine.

4. Mix until a dough forms.

5. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.

6. Wrap the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Shape the Shells

1. Roll the dough very thin on a floured surface.

2. Cut circles about 4–5 inches wide.

3. Wrap each circle around a cannoli mold.

4. Seal the edges with a little water.

Step 3: Fry Until Crispy

1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry the shells for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

3. Remove carefully and let cool completely.

4. Gently slide shells off the molds.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. Drain ricotta cheese well to remove excess moisture.

2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon.

3. Fold in mini chocolate chips.

4. Chill the filling for 1 hour for the best texture.

Step 5: Fill the Cannoli

1. Transfer filling into a piping bag.

2. Pipe cream into both sides of each shell.

3. Dip the ends into crushed pistachios or chocolate chips.

4. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Serving Ideas

• Serve chilled with espresso or cappuccino.

• Add melted chocolate drizzle for extra richness.

• Garnish with extra pistachios for a bakery-style presentation.

Tips for Perfect Cannoli

• Drain ricotta overnight for ultra-creamy filling.

• Fill the shells right before serving to keep them crispy.

• Thin dough creates the signature light and crunchy texture.

Flavor Variations

Chocolate Cannoli

Add cocoa powder to the dough and extra chocolate chips in the filling.

Citrus Cannoli

Mix orange zest or lemon zest into the ricotta cream.

Nutella Cannoli

Swirl Nutella into the filling for a richer dessert.

Why People Love Cannoli

Cannoli are famous for their contrast of textures — crispy golden shells paired with silky sweet ricotta cream. The pistachios and chocolate chips add crunch and extra flavor, making every bite rich, creamy, and irresistible.