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Cannoli Siciliani is a classic Italian dessert that hails from the beautiful island of Sicily. Known for its crispy shell and rich, creamy filling, this delightful pastry is a favorite among dessert lovers. Making Cannoli Siciliani at home may seem daunting, but with the right ingredients and step-by-step guidance, you can create this indulgent treat that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- For the Shell:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 cup white wine (or vinegar)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese, drained
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- Chopped pistachios or candied fruit for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk and wine (or vinegar) until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a 4-inch round cutter.
- Shape the Shells: Wrap each circle around a cannoli tube, sealing the edges with a little water. Make sure to pinch the edges tightly to prevent the dough from opening while frying.
- Fry the Shells: In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the cannoli shells until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Carefully remove and drain on paper towels. Allow to cool before removing from tubes.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, then fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Fill the Cannoli: Using a pastry bag or a spoon, fill each cooled cannoli shell with the ricotta filling. Be generous!
- Garnish and Serve: Dust the filled cannoli with powdered sugar and garnish with chopped pistachios or candied fruit as desired. Enjoy your homemade Cannoli Siciliani!
FAQs
What is the best way to store Cannoli Siciliani?
To maintain the crispiness of the shells, it’s best to store the filling and shells separately. Fill the shells just before serving for the best texture.
Can I make Cannoli shells in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the shells in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just fill them with the ricotta mixture right before serving.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you can’t find ricotta cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese or a combination of cream cheese and sour cream as an alternative for the filling.
How do I make my Cannoli filling sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter filling, simply increase the amount of powdered sugar to taste. You can also add a splash of flavored liqueur for extra sweetness and flavor.
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