Chocolate Cannoli

Chocolate Cannoli Recipe from Italy with Ricotta Cheese and Heavy Cream

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Chocolate Cannoli is a delicious and decadent dessert that originated in Italy. These crispy pastry shells filled with a creamy chocolate filling are a favorite among dessert lovers. In this recipe, we will show you how to make your own homemade Chocolate Cannoli that will surely impress your family and friends.

History

Cannoli is a traditional Italian dessert that dates back to the Sicilian region. The word "cannoli" means "little tube" in Italian, which refers to the shape of the pastry shell. Originally, cannoli were filled with a ricotta cheese mixture, but over the years, different variations have been created, including chocolate-filled cannoli. This modern twist on the classic dessert has become a popular choice for those with a sweet tooth.

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
1 square (1 oz or 28 g) unsweetened chocolate
0.67 cup sucralose-based sugar substitute
0.33 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1 tsp vanilla or almond extract
0.25 tsp salt
8 unfilled cannoli shells (0.5 oz or 14 g each)
1 tsp miniature chocolate chips or chopped pistachio nuts (optional)

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, beat the cream at high speed using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Place the chocolate in a small microwavable bowl and microwave on high for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the chocolate is melted. Stir at 30-second intervals.
In a medium bowl, combine the sugar substitute, ricotta, vanilla, and salt.
Stir in the melted chocolate.
Fold the whipped cream into the mixture.
Spoon or pipe 0.25 cup of the mixture into each cannoli shell.
If desired, garnish with chocolate chips or crushed pistachio nuts.

Variations

You can add orange zest or cinnamon to the filling for a unique flavor twist.
Instead of pistachios, you can garnish the cannoli with chopped hazelnuts or almonds.
For a lighter version, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese and whipped cream.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form to ensure a light and fluffy filling.

- Be careful when melting the chocolate in the microwave, as it can easily burn. Stir at 30-second intervals to prevent overheating.

- For a richer flavor, you can use dark chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate.

- If you don't have cannoli shells, you can use mini phyllo cups or puff pastry as a substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chocolate Cannoli as a decadent dessert at your next dinner party or special occasion. Pair it with a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine for a truly indulgent experience.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the heavy cream until stiff peaks form is essential for a light and airy filling.

- Folding the whipped cream gently into the chocolate mixture will help maintain the fluffy texture of the filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular sugar instead of a sugar substitute if desired.

- If you don't have almond extract, you can use vanilla extract as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for Chocolate Cannoli ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to fill the cannoli shells. This will save you time on the day of serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the filled cannoli on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Chocolate Cannoli pairs well with a variety of beverages, including espresso, cappuccino, or a glass of dessert wine such as Moscato or Port.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chocolate Cannoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cannoli in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chocolate Cannoli contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chocolate Cannoli contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chocolate Cannoli contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chocolate Cannoli contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chocolate Cannoli is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

Chocolate Cannoli contains dairy (ricotta cheese) and nuts (pistachios), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Chocolate Cannoli is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and calories. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Chocolate Cannoli is a delightful dessert that combines the crispy texture of the pastry shell with a creamy chocolate filling. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create this decadent treat at home. Enjoy the rich flavors and indulgent taste of Chocolate Cannoli with your loved ones today!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was given to me by my dear friend Maria, who had learned how to make chocolate cannoli from her own grandmother. As soon as I laid eyes on the ingredients and instructions, I knew I had to try it out for myself.

I remember the day clearly - it was a rainy Sunday afternoon, the perfect time to stay indoors and experiment in the kitchen. I gathered all the necessary ingredients: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, butter, eggs, marsala wine, ricotta cheese, and of course, chocolate chips. As I began to mix everything together, a sense of nostalgia washed over me. I felt connected to my own grandmother, who had passed down so many recipes to me over the years.

As the dough came together, I couldn't help but think about the history behind this delicious treat. Cannoli have been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, originating in Sicily and eventually making their way to the United States. The combination of crispy fried pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese is a true culinary masterpiece, and I was eager to put my own spin on it with a chocolate twist.

After letting the dough rest, I rolled it out and cut it into small circles. I carefully wrapped each circle around a metal cannoli tube, pressing the edges together to create a seamless seal. Then, it was time to fry them up until golden brown and crispy. The scent of chocolate and fried dough filled my kitchen, drawing my family members into the room with eager anticipation.

Once the cannoli shells had cooled, I removed the metal tubes and began to prepare the chocolate ricotta filling. I mixed together the ricotta cheese, sugar, and melted chocolate, creating a creamy and decadent mixture that would soon be piped into the cannoli shells. As I filled each one, I couldn't help but admire the beauty of the finished product - a perfect marriage of chocolate and cheese, encapsulated in a crunchy shell.

Finally, it was time to serve the chocolate cannoli to my family. I arranged them on a platter, dusting them with powdered sugar and garnishing them with chocolate chips. The look of delight on my loved ones' faces as they took their first bite was priceless. The combination of flavors and textures was a true delight, and I knew that this recipe would become a new favorite in our household.

As we savored each bite of the chocolate cannoli, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the culinary traditions that had been passed down to me. Through the sharing of recipes and stories, I had learned so much about my family's history and heritage. Cooking had become more than just a hobby - it was a way to connect with my past and create lasting memories with the ones I loved.

In the years that followed, I continued to make chocolate cannoli for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time, I would think back to that rainy Sunday afternoon when I first discovered the recipe, and I would smile knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been cherished for generations. The joy of sharing a delicious meal with my loved ones was a feeling like no other, and I was grateful for the gift of cooking that had been passed down to me.

And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on the memories of that day and the many meals that have been shared since, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey that has brought me to this moment. The recipe for chocolate cannoli may have come from a dear friend, but the love and connection that it represents is truly my own. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my creativity, share my heritage, and create lasting memories with those I hold dear. And for that, I am forever grateful.