Mini Cannoli Cups Recipe
Introduction
Mini Cannoli Cups are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, perfect for parties or a sweet snack. These bite-sized treats combine crispy shells with a creamy, sweet ricotta filling for an irresistible flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- Cannoli shells (mini size)
- Ricotta filling (sweetened)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the sweet ricotta filling by mixing ricotta cheese with sugar and any preferred flavorings like vanilla or orange zest.
- Step 2: Carefully fill each mini cannoli shell with the sweet ricotta mixture using a piping bag or spoon.
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, add mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios to the ricotta filling.
- Chill the filled cannoli cups for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Storage
Store the filled cannoli cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Fill the shells just before serving to keep them crisp. If refrigerated after filling, the shells may soften.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the ricotta filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ricotta filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the shells right before serving to keep them crisp.
What can I use if I don’t have mini cannoli shells?
If mini cannoli shells aren’t available, you can fill regular cannoli shells and cut them into smaller pieces, or use phyllo cups as a creative alternative.
PrintMini Cannoli Cups Recipe
Mini Cannoli Cups are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring crisp cannoli shells filled with a creamy, sweetened ricotta filling. Perfect for serving at parties or as an elegant treat, these bite-sized cups combine the rich flavors of ricotta cheese with a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 mini cannoli cups
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Cannoli Shells
- Mini cannoli shells – 20 pieces
For the Ricotta Filling
- Ricotta cheese – 1 1/2 cups
- Powdered sugar – 1/2 cup, sifted
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- Mini chocolate chips – 1/4 cup (optional)
- Candied orange peel or chopped pistachios for garnish (optional) – 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Prepare the Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Fold in mini chocolate chips if desired for added texture and flavor.
- Fill the Cannoli Shells: Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each mini cannoli shell with the ricotta mixture. Be gentle to avoid breaking the delicate shells.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish the filled cannoli cups with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or small pieces of candied orange peel to enhance the presentation and add complementary flavors.
- Serve: Arrange the filled mini cannoli cups on a serving platter and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh ricotta cheese and ensure it is well-drained to avoid a watery filling.
- Mini cannoli shells can be purchased ready-made from specialty grocery stores or Italian markets.
- The filling can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated for convenience.
- Be cautious when filling the shells to prevent cracking; a piping bag works best for a neat presentation.
- Customize the filling by adding a hint of cinnamon or orange zest for a different flavor profile.
Keywords: Mini cannoli, ricotta filling, Italian dessert, no-bake dessert, party appetizers, sweet ricotta cups
