Ingredients
- 1 cup confectioners' sugar
- 1 pint part-skim ricotta cheese
- ½ cup blanched slivered almonds
- 1 tablespoon amaretto liqueur
- 12 cannoli shells
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 12 maraschino cherries
Ingredient Image
What Makes This Recipe So Great
This dessert combines a crispy shell with a creamy, sweet filling that melts in your mouth. The chocolate chips add a delightful crunch and rich flavor. It’s both fun to make and impressive to serve.
Tips To Improve This Recipe
- Chill the filling before assembling to make it easier to pipe.
- Fry the shells until golden brown for the perfect crunch.
- Use a small sieve to dust powdered sugar evenly on top.
- Fry the shells until golden brown for the perfect crunch.
- Use a small sieve to dust powdered sugar evenly on top.
Directions
Blend the ricotta cheese and 1 cup of powdered sugar in a large bowl until everything is well combined. Then, fold in the chopped almonds, chocolate chips, and a splash of almond liqueur for extra flavor. Carefully spoon the filling into your cannoli shells—if you have a pastry bag, that works great for a neat finish. To serve, dust the cannoli (or the plates) with a little powdered sugar and cocoa powder. For a nice touch, add some fresh cherries on the side. Enjoy!
Best Ways To Serve
Serve these with a cup of espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine. They also pair well with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
How To Store For Later
Store the shells and filling separately to keep the shells crisp. Assemble just before serving. Keep the filling refrigerated and use within 2 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole milk ricotta instead of part-skim?
Yes, whole milk ricotta will make the filling richer and creamier.
How long should I chill the filling before assembling?
Chill the filling for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up for easier piping.
Can I prepare the filling a day ahead?
Yes, the filling can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
What can I use if I don’t have amaretto liqueur?
You can substitute with almond extract or leave it out if preferred.
How do I prevent the cannoli shells from getting soggy?
Fill the shells just before serving to keep them crisp.
Can I omit the almonds?
Yes, you can leave out the almonds or replace them with chopped pistachios.
Is there a way to pipe the filling without a pastry bag?
Yes, use a resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off to pipe the filling neatly.
Can I use mini chocolate chips instead of regular ones?
Yes, mini chips work well and distribute more evenly in the filling.
