Oh, let me tell you about the joy of making cannoli florence! This delightful Italian dessert, filled with sweet ricotta cream and chocolate chips, has a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I tried cannoli in a little family-run café while visiting Florence. The moment I took a bite, I was transported to a world of creamy goodness, and I knew I had to recreate that experience at home. Making cannoli florence is not just about the deliciousness; it’s about the joy of bringing a piece of Italian culture into your kitchen. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about filling those crispy shells with that luscious ricotta mixture. Trust me, whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy treat at home, this recipe will make your heart sing. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making these incredible cannoli together!
Ingredients
- 12 cannoli shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (make sure it’s well-drained for the best texture)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that lovely flavor)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (you can use dark or milk chocolate, whichever you prefer)
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional, but they add a nice crunch and color)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (to make it look pretty just before serving)
How to Prepare Cannoli Florence
Making cannoli florence is a delightful process, and I promise you, it’s easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cannoli ready to impress your family and friends. Remember, this is a no-bake recipe, so we’re just focusing on mixing and filling—perfect for a quick dessert that packs a punch!
Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Filling
First things first, let’s whip up that luscious ricotta filling! In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of well-drained ricotta cheese with 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything well. Once you have that silky texture, gently fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips. The chocolate adds that delightful sweetness and texture that makes each bite irresistible!
Step 2: Fill the Cannoli Shells
Now comes the fun part—filling those crunchy cannoli shells! Grab a piping bag (or a sturdy zip-top bag with a corner snipped off if you don’t have one) and carefully spoon your ricotta mixture into it. Pipe the filling into one end of each 12 cannoli shells, filling them generously but avoid overstuffing. I like to fill them from both ends to ensure the filling reaches every bite. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a spoon, but trust me, the piping bag makes it so much easier and less messy!
Step 3: Final Touches
Once all your shells are filled, it’s time for the finishing touches! If you’re using chopped pistachios, sprinkle them on one end of each cannoli for a lovely crunch and a splash of color. This is purely optional, but oh-so-yummy! Finally, dust the filled cannoli with a light shower of powdered sugar just before serving. This not only adds sweetness but also gives them that beautiful, classic look. And there you have it—your gorgeous cannoli florence are ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
Making cannoli florence is all about the little details, so here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time! First, when choosing your ricotta, opt for brands that are creamy and well-drained; this makes a world of difference in texture. If you’re looking for a richer filling, try substituting ricotta with mascarpone cheese for an extra indulgent treat.
Also, remember, safety first! If you’re using a piping bag, be careful not to overfill, as it can burst. Using a sturdy zip-top bag is a fantastic alternative if you don’t have a piping bag. And don’t fill the cannoli until just before serving to keep the shells nice and crunchy. If you have leftovers, store the filling separately in the fridge and fill the shells right before enjoying. That way, they stay crispy and delightful!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional information for our delightful cannoli florence. Each cannoli is estimated to contain about 250 calories, making it a sweet treat that’s just the right size for indulgence. You’ll find around 10 grams of fat in each one, with 5 grams being saturated fat. Additionally, each cannoli has about 12 grams of sugar, which is just enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard. Remember, these are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you choose. Enjoy in moderation, and savor every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I make cannoli florence ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ricotta filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to fill the cannoli shells right before serving to keep them crispy!
What if I can’t find cannoli shells?
If you can’t find pre-made cannoli shells, you can use other types of pastry shells or even fill crispy phyllo cups as a delicious alternative. Just keep an eye on the size so it matches your filling!
Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat ricotta if you prefer a lighter option. Just be aware that the texture may be slightly different, but it will still be tasty!
What other fillings can I use?
Get creative! You can add flavors like orange zest, almond extract, or even a bit of espresso powder to the ricotta for a unique twist. Just make sure to keep the base creamy!
How do I store leftover filled cannoli?
It’s best to keep the filling and shells separate until you’re ready to eat. Store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and fill the shells just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for any skill level!
- Deliciously creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
- No baking required, making it a stress-free dessert option.
- Customizable with your favorite flavors and toppings.
- Perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or a sweet treat at home.
- Impressive presentation that will wow your guests!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your cannoli florence, presentation can elevate the experience even more! I love to serve these delightful treats alongside a warm cup of espresso or a creamy cappuccino—there’s just something magical about the combination of rich coffee and sweet ricotta-filled goodness. For a lovely touch, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to bring out those chocolate chips. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, can add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling. Whatever you choose, these pairings will enhance your cannoli florence experience and leave everyone wanting more!
Delightful Cannoli Florence: 5 Comforting Steps to Savor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cannoli Florence is a delightful Italian dessert filled with sweet ricotta cream and chocolate chips.
Ingredients
- 12 cannoli shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Using a piping bag, fill each cannoli shell with the ricotta mixture.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios on one end if desired.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ricotta with mascarpone for a richer filling.
- Use gluten-free cannoli shells for a gluten-free option.
- Store filled cannoli in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cannoli
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: cannoli, Italian dessert, ricotta, chocolate chips
