Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the shell:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup red wine (Marsala wine is traditional)
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- For the filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional for added indulgence)
Step 1: Making the Cannoli Shell
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Add the softened butter and red wine to the dry ingredients. Using your hands, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Form the dough into a ball and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest for around 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
Once the dough has rested, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s thin (about 1/8 inch). Use a round cutter or glass to cut out circles with a diameter of approximately 4-5 inches.
Wrap each circle of dough around a cannoli tube or a metal cylinder, sealing the edges with a bit of water. Repeat this process for all the remaining circles.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to around 350°F (175°C). Gently place the wrapped cannoli shells, a few at a time, into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown (around 2-3 minutes), then carefully remove them from the oil and let them cool on a wire rack.
Step 2: Preparing the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the filling is smooth.
If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for those extra bursts of indulgence.
Step 3: Assembling the Cannoli
Once the cannoli shells have cooled, gently remove them from the metal cylinders or cannoli tubes.
Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each shell with the prepared ricotta filling. Start by inserting the piping bag or spoon into one end of the cannoli shell and continue filling until the shell is evenly packed.
Sprinkle some powdered sugar on the assembled cannoli to add a final touch of sweetness and decoration.
Serving and Storing Tips
Cannolo Siciliano is best enjoyed fresh and crisp. Serve them immediately after filling to maintain their crunchiness.
If you need to store leftover cannoli, keep them unfilled in an airtight container at room temperature. Fill them just before serving to ensure maximum delight.
Now that you have mastered the art of making authentic Cannolo Siciliano, it’s time to savor these sweet delights. Enjoy the harmony of flavors that transport you to the beautiful island of Sicily with every bite. Buon appetito!