In this recipe we’ve outlined a method for making the cannoli pastry shells using a pasta maker, but if you don’t have one of these in your kitchen you can use a rolling pin instead. However, it’ll be harder to create an even thickness for all of the dough. Similarly, if you don’t have cannoli tubes at home, you can use aluminum foil and roll this into tight cylinders to form the pastry around instead.
The Secret to Perfect Cannoli Filling
A typical cannoli filling recipe uses whole milk ricotta that's been properly drained to prevent the filling from becoming soggy. If you have the time, you’ll get the best results by draining it overnight in the fridge using a cheesecloth. Whipping it with confectioners’ sugar, as suggested in this recipe, helps to create a smooth texture.
For an authentic Italian cannoli filling, mix the ricotta cheese with vanilla, chocolate chips, orange, or lemon zest. A true classic in iconic Italian cuisine, it’s one of our top 10 must-try Sicilian sweets and desserts.
Cannoli Variations and Garnishes
The traditional cannoli filling features sweetened ricotta with chocolate chips, however, there are plenty of twists on the recipe. Some bakers will use a mixture of ricotta and cream cheese, for example, to create an even smoother filling.
Other modern twists include a tiramisu cannoli, introducing coffee and mascarpone to the filling, along with a salted caramel cannoli and even a chocolate cannoli using chocolate spread. Berry cannoli are a tasty option in the summer, featuring fillings and toppings using in-season summertime ingredients, such as strawberries and raspberries.
If the cannoli has piqued your interest in Italian cooking, take a look at our guide to the 30 dishes every Italian should know, featuring arancini and more.
