Classic Ricotta Cannoli Fillings
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of these Classic Ricotta Cannoli Fillings, perfect for pairing with homemade cannoli shells. Inspired by traditional Italian pastry techniques, these fillings highlight the exquisite flavor of creamy ricotta cheese, enhanced with delightful additions like chocolate chips and candied fruits. While the first filling focuses on a luscious blend of sweetness and chocolate, the second filling introduces the fragrant notes of cinnamon and vanilla, along with vibrant candied orange and citron peels. Whether you’re preparing a festive dessert for a special occasion or a sweet treat to share with loved ones, these fillings transform simple cannoli shells into an extraordinary dessert experience.
N/A
Servings
208
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
ricotta cheese
2 lbs (drained (about 4 cups))
semi-sweet chocolate chips
4 tablespoons (mini chips preferred)
candied orange peel
2 tablespoons (cut fine (optional))
Creme de Cacao or liqueur of choice
3 fluid ounces
sugar
4 tablespoons
ricotta cheese
6 cups ((about 3 pounds))
confectioners' sugar
1 cup (for filling and dusting)
cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon
unsweetened chocolate
1 ounce (grated (optional) or 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional))
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
candied citron peel
4 tablespoons (finely chopped)
glace cherries
6 (cut in half (for decoration, optional))
Instructions
1
Prepare Cannoli Filling #1 (fills 8 large cannoli): In a mixing bowl, cream the drained ricotta cheese until it reaches a silky, smooth consistency.
2
Incorporate the semi-sweet chocolate chips, liqueur, minced candied orange peel (if using), and sugar; stir the mixture well until all ingredients are combined.
3
Refrigerate the mixture until it is firm and cold, approximately 1-2 hours.
4
To fill the cannoli shells, use a small spoon or a pastry bag for an even and delightful fill. Refrigerate the assembled cannoli until ready to serve.
5
For Cannoli Filling #2 (fills 10-12 cannoli): In another bowl, sift the confectioners' sugar, ground cinnamon, and unsweetened cocoa powder (if using) together.
6
Add the ricotta to the sifted mixture, blending until creamy and well-mixed.
7
Incorporate the vanilla extract, finely chopped candied citron and orange peels, and grated chocolate (if not using cocoa) until well integrated.
8
Chill the filling until cold, around 1-2 hours, before using it to fill the shells.
9
After filling the cannoli, smooth the filling flush with the end of the shell, and for a touch of elegance, garnish with half a glace cherry on each side.
10
Finish off with a light dusting of confectioners' sugar right before serving. Keep the filled cannoli refrigerated until it’s time to enjoy.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
27g
Carbs
6g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the two types of cannoli fillings included in this recipe?
The recipe includes Filling #1, which focuses on chocolate chips and liqueur, and Filling #2, which features cinnamon, vanilla, and candied citron and orange peels.
What is the primary ingredient used in these cannoli fillings?
The main ingredient is drained ricotta cheese, with 2 lbs used for the first filling and 3 lbs used for the second filling.
How do I prepare the ricotta cheese for the filling?
You should cream the drained ricotta cheese in a mixing bowl until it reaches a silky, smooth consistency.
What kind of chocolate is recommended for the first filling?
Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips are preferred for the first filling variation.
How long should the cannoli filling be refrigerated before use?
The filling should be refrigerated until it is firm and cold, which typically takes approximately 1 to 2 hours.
How many large cannoli does Filling #1 yield?
Filling #1 is sufficient to fill 8 large cannoli shells.
What is the yield for Filling #2?
Filling #2 is designed to fill approximately 10 to 12 cannoli.
What dry ingredients are sifted together for the second filling?
For Filling #2, you sift together confectioners' sugar, ground cinnamon, and unsweetened cocoa powder if using.
What can be used if I don't want to use cocoa powder in the second filling?
You can use 1 ounce of grated unsweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder.
What type of liqueur is suggested for the recipe?
The recipe suggests Creme de Cacao or any liqueur of your choice.
How do you garnish the finished cannoli?
Smooth the filling flush with the end of the shell and garnish with half a glace cherry on each side.
When should the confectioners' sugar be dusted on?
A light dusting of confectioners' sugar should be applied right before serving.
How many calories are in a serving of this cannoli filling?
There are 208 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 7.5g of fat.
How many grams of protein are in each serving?
There are 6g of protein per serving.
How many grams of carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 27g of carbohydrates per serving.
What kind of fruit peels are included in these recipes?
The recipes use candied orange peel and candied citron peel.
How should the candied orange peel be prepared for the first filling?
The candied orange peel should be minced or cut fine.
What tools are recommended for filling the cannoli shells?
You can use either a small spoon or a pastry bag for an even fill.
What is the recommended amount of cinnamon for Filling #2?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Is the vanilla extract used in both fillings?
No, vanilla extract is specifically listed for Filling #2.
How many glace cherries are needed for decoration?
The recipe calls for 6 glace cherries, which are then cut in half.
Can I use granulated sugar for Filling #2?
Filling #2 specifically calls for confectioners' sugar to be sifted with the other dry ingredients.
What is the total number of ingredients listed for these fillings?
There are 12 ingredients listed in total.
Should the filled cannoli be stored in the fridge?
Yes, keep the filled cannoli refrigerated until you are ready to serve them.
What is the preparation for the candied citron peel?
The candied citron peel should be finely chopped.
How much liqueur is used in the first filling?
The recipe uses 3 fluid ounces of liqueur for Filling #1.
Are the cannoli shells included in this recipe?
No, this recipe is specifically for the fillings to be paired with homemade or store-bought cannoli shells.
What style of dessert is this?
These are Classic Ricotta Cannoli Fillings inspired by traditional Italian pastry techniques.
Is the cocoa powder sweetened or unsweetened?
The recipe specifies using unsweetened cocoa powder.