Italian Cannoli Using Stevia

Italian Cannoli Using Stevia Recipe - Authentic and Healthy Dessert

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Italian Cannoli is a classic Italian dessert that consists of a crispy fried pastry shell filled with a sweet and creamy ricotta cheese mixture. In this recipe, we will be using stevia as a natural sweetener to reduce the sugar content without compromising on taste.

History

Cannoli originated in Sicily and are traditionally served during special occasions such as weddings and holidays. The word "cannoli" means "little tube" in Italian, referring to the shape of the pastry shell. This dessert has become popular worldwide and is loved for its delicious combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups of part-skim ricotta cheese, drained if necessary
• 0.25 tsp of stevia extract (refer to Sensational Stevia Desserts for brand variations)
• 0.25 tsp of vanilla extract
• 0.25 tsp of ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp of dried fruit, as used in fruit cake (optional)
• 1 oz (28 g) of mini chocolate chips or carob chips (optional)
• 6 cannoli shells

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, thoroughly blend ricotta cheese, stevia, vanilla, and cinnamon using an electric mixer or by hand.
Dice dried fruit in a food processor and fold it with chips into the cheese filling.
Refrigerate the mixture overnight or for at least a few hours.
Fill 6 regular-sized cannoli shells and serve immediately.

Lisa's Note

If you prefer to save time, you can purchase delicious cannoli shells from two brands: Ferrara and Bellino.
These cannoli shells are available in many grocery stores.
If you cannot find them in stores, you can order them online at www.shopviviano.com.
J Viviano & Sons, Inc. Italian Importers also has a store in St. Louis, MO (314-771-5476).

Variations

Lisa's Note

If you omit the chocolate chips and dried fruit, you will significantly reduce the carbohydrates from 15 g to 5 g and sugar from 9 g to 1 g This will make the plain cannoli still incredibly delicious! For those following strict low-carb diets, you can further reduce the carbs by eliminating the shell and enjoying just the filling. The best taste of stevia is achieved when the filling is refrigerated overnight and served the next day. If you're in a hurry, you can refrigerate it for a few hours for a similar effect. Trust me, these cannoli are so good that you'll want to make them often. They are not only delicious but also very easy to prepare and will be enjoyed by everyone. When I first created this recipe, I was quite nervous about serving it to my Italian family. However, I was thrilled when even my parents, who were accustomed to the finest cannoli from famous Italian bakeries in South Philadelphia, said they tasted amazing!
Copyright ©2005 Sensational Stevia Desserts by Lisa Jobs
This Sensational Stevia Desserts recipe and excerpt may not be reproduced or copied without the expressed written permission from Healthy Lifestyle Publishing and the author Lisa Jobs.
Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the filling mixture for added texture and flavor.
Dip the ends of the cannoli shells in melted chocolate before filling for a decadent touch.
Use flavored extracts such as almond or orange in place of vanilla for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese well to remove excess moisture and prevent the filling from becoming too runny.

- Refrigerating the filling mixture for a few hours or overnight will allow the flavors to meld together and create a more delicious filling.

- Fill the cannoli shells just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Cannoli can be served as a dessert after a traditional Italian meal or as a sweet treat for special occasions. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.

Cooking Techniques

Use an electric mixer or food processor to blend the filling ingredients together quickly and evenly.

- Be careful not to overfill the cannoli shells, as this can cause them to break or become soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can use powdered sugar or honey in place of stevia.

- Substitute mini chocolate chips for carob chips if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

The filling mixture can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days before filling the cannoli shells. Store the filled cannoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the filled cannoli on a platter and garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a beautiful presentation. Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Italian Cannoli pairs well with a cup of espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine such as Moscato or Vin Santo. Serve with fresh fruit or biscotti for a complete dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Italian Cannoli contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Italian Cannoli contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Italian Cannoli contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Italian Cannoli contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Italian Cannoli is a good source of calcium and vitamin A from the ricotta cheese.

Alergens

Italian Cannoli contains dairy (ricotta cheese) and wheat (cannoli shells).

Summary

Italian Cannoli is a delicious dessert that is relatively low in carbohydrates and provides a good amount of protein and fats. It is a satisfying treat that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Italian Cannoli is a delightful dessert that combines a crispy pastry shell with a creamy ricotta cheese filling. By using stevia as a sweetener, this recipe offers a lower sugar option without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy this classic Italian treat for a special occasion or as a sweet indulgence.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Italian Cannoli using Stevia. It was a beautiful summer day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. As I flipped through the pages, a worn piece of paper fell out onto my lap. Curious, I picked it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for Italian Cannoli using Stevia.

My heart skipped a beat as I read through the ingredients and instructions. I had always loved making traditional Italian desserts, but I had never tried using Stevia as a sweetener before. Excited by the prospect of creating a healthier version of one of my favorite treats, I immediately set to work gathering the necessary ingredients.

As I mixed together the flour, Stevia, and other ingredients for the cannoli shells, memories flooded back to me of learning how to cook from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, and I was always in awe of her ability to create delicious meals and desserts from scratch. I could still hear her voice guiding me through the process, teaching me the importance of patience and attention to detail in cooking.

After the cannoli shells had baked to a golden perfection, I moved on to preparing the filling. I whipped together ricotta cheese, Stevia, and a hint of vanilla extract until it was smooth and creamy. The aroma of the sweet cheese filling filled the kitchen, reminding me of the many times I had enjoyed cannoli with my family during special occasions and holidays.

As I carefully filled each cannoli shell with the sweet cheese mixture, I thought about the journey that had led me to this moment. Over the years, I had collected recipes from various places and people, each one holding a special place in my heart. This recipe for Italian Cannoli using Stevia was a testament to my love for cooking and my desire to create healthier versions of classic dishes.

Once the cannoli were filled and dusted with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, I couldn't wait to taste the final result. I took a bite and was instantly transported back to my childhood, sitting around the table with my family, enjoying a delicious dessert made with love and care.

From that day on, Italian Cannoli using Stevia became a staple in my recipe collection. I shared the recipe with friends and family, each one amazed at how delicious and guilt-free these treats were. It brought me joy to see others enjoy the fruits of my labor, knowing that I had created something special that would be cherished for years to come.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I am grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I will continue to explore new recipes and techniques, always striving to create dishes that bring joy and comfort to those around me.

And so, I will always hold dear the memory of stumbling upon the recipe for Italian Cannoli using Stevia, a sweet reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.