If you love the taste of classic Italian pastries, you’ll fall in love with these Homemade Chocolate Cannoli. With their crunchy, fried shells and rich, chocolate-laced ricotta filling, these cannoli deliver a perfect combination of texture and flavor in every bite. They’re ideal for festive gatherings, special dinners, or simply when you want to indulge in a handcrafted dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
This recipe teaches you how to make cannoli from scratch, including how to flavor the creamy filling with just the right amount of cocoa and chocolate chips.
Ingredients
Yields: 12 cannoli
For the Cannoli Shells:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sweet Marsala wine or white wine
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Chocolate Ricotta Filling:
- 1 3/4 cups (425g) whole milk ricotta cheese (drained overnight)
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (90g) mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 40 minutes
- Chill time: 1 hour
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 2 hours
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Shell Dough
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add egg yolk, wine, and vinegar. Stir until dough forms.
- Knead briefly, form into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.
Step 2: Roll and Fry the Shells
- Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut into 4-inch circles and wrap around metal cannoli tubes, sealing edges with egg white.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry 2–3 shells at a time until golden and crisp (about 1–2 minutes).
- Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels. Let cool before removing molds.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Filling
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until smooth, then fold in chocolate chips.
- Transfer to a piping bag and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Cannoli
- Once shells are fully cooled, pipe the chocolate ricotta filling into each end of the shells.
- Optionally, dip ends in extra chocolate chips or crushed pistachios.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Best served immediately after filling for optimal crispness.
- Garnish with fresh berries or mint for a sophisticated finish.
- Pair with espresso, cappuccino, or a sweet dessert wine.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Cannoli (1 of 12) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 6 grams |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 25 grams |
| Sugars | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 100 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Ricotta cheese provides protein and calcium while maintaining a light texture.
- Cocoa powder and chocolate chips offer antioxidants and rich flavor.
- Homemade shells avoid preservatives and allow you to control oil absorption by frying briefly and draining well.
- For a lighter version, try baking the shells instead of frying or using part-skim ricotta.
Expert Tips for Success
- Drain ricotta overnight using cheesecloth to prevent a watery filling.
- Use wine in the dough for crispness and authentic flavor.
- Fill cannoli just before serving to keep the shells crisp and fresh.
- For an extra twist, add orange zest or espresso powder to the filling.
Flavor Variations
- Swap chocolate for lemon zest and candied fruit for a Sicilian-style cannoli.
- Add hazelnut spread to the filling for a Nutella-inspired version.
- Dip one side in melted dark chocolate for a more elegant look.
These Homemade Chocolate Cannoli are an elegant dessert that brings a taste of Italian pastry into your kitchen. From crispy golden shells to rich, chocolatey ricotta filling, every element is crafted with care and delivers a perfect bite. Whether you’re serving them at a celebration or enjoying a personal treat, they’re guaranteed to impress.