How to Make Classic Italian Cannoli (Recipe)

There’s something truly special about biting into a crisp, golden cannoli shell filled with rich, creamy ricotta filling. Whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or just a Sunday treat, homemade cannoli always bring smiles to the table.

And guess what? You can make them right in your own kitchen. Here’s how:

Ingredients

For the shells:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup sweet Marsala wine (or dry white wine)
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• 2 tbsp water (as needed)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the filling:

• 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese (well-drained)
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (more to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
• Optional: chopped pistachios, additional chocolate chips, or candied orange peel for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cut in the butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg, Marsala wine, vinegar, and water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon.
2. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
3. Cover and refrigerate until ready to fill the shells.

Step 3: Roll and Fry the Shells

1. Roll out the dough very thin (about 1/8 inch) on a floured surface.
2. Cut out circles (4 to 5 inches in diameter). Wrap each circle around a metal cannoli form, sealing the edge with a bit of water.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Fry shells, a few at a time, until golden brown and crisp (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Drain on paper towels. Let cool before carefully removing from forms.

Step 4: Fill the Cannoli

1. Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each shell with the ricotta mixture just before serving.
2. Garnish ends with chopped pistachios, more chocolate chips, or candied peel if desired.
3. Dust with powdered sugar and enjoy!

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A Little Tip for Guilt-Free Indulgence…

Cannoli may be a sweet indulgence, but it’s all about balance. I’ve found that managing blood sugar and maintaining energy is key — especially after enjoying those irresistible Italian desserts!

If you’re looking for natural support in this area, I personally recommend checking out GlucoTrust. It’s a supplement that helps support healthy blood sugar levels and promotes better sleep — both of which contribute to overall well-being. You can learn more here 👉 GlucoTrust.

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Now, go ahead — whip up a batch of cannoli, share them with your loved ones, and enjoy every bite. After all, life is meant to be savored.

Image Source: ID 57696380 | Cannoli ©
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