Mini 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.
- Author: Ria
- 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
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
- 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