Cannoli Bites Recipe

Introduction

Cannoli Bites are a delightful, bite-sized version of the classic Italian cannoli dessert. These mini treats feature a crispy, golden shell filled with a creamy, sweet ricotta filling that’s just as delicious as the traditional version. Perfect for parties, holidays, or any special occasion, Cannoli Bites offer all the irresistible flavors of a cannoli in a more convenient, single-serving form. With their crunchy exterior and smooth, indulgent filling, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.

The beauty of Cannoli Bites lies in their versatility. While the crispy shells provide a satisfying crunch, the creamy ricotta filling offers a rich, velvety contrast. A dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chocolate chips adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture, making these treats even more irresistible. These easy-to-make bites are a perfect way to enjoy the beloved Italian dessert without the need for a large, time-consuming recipe.

This guide will walk you through the steps of creating these delicious Cannoli Bites, share helpful tips for getting the perfect texture and flavor, and suggest fun variations to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and sure to yield a crowd-pleasing treat.

Why You’ll Love Cannoli Bites

• Crispy and Creamy: These bites offer the perfect balance between a crunchy shell and a rich, creamy filling, delivering the best of both textures in each bite. The crispness of the shell contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the ricotta filling, making each bite an indulgent experience.
• Perfect for Sharing: Because these Cannoli Bites are small and easy to eat, they’re great for sharing at parties, gatherings, or celebrations. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for dessert tables, allowing guests to enjoy them without the mess or hassle of slicing a large dessert.
• Simple and Delicious: With just a few basic ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, these Cannoli Bites are easy to make while still delivering impressive, authentic flavor. The combination of crispy pastry and sweet ricotta filling is sure to win over anyone who loves Italian desserts.
• Customizable: While the classic Cannoli Bites are made with ricotta and chocolate chips, there are plenty of variations you can try, from adding candied citrus peel to swapping chocolate chips for chopped pistachios or hazelnuts. You can also experiment with different fillings or toppings to make these treats your own.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, Cannoli Bites are the perfect addition to any dessert spread. They’re simple enough to make on a weekday but elegant enough to serve at a special occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30-60 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 Cannoli Bites
• Calories per Serving: Around 100-120 calories per bite, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 100-120 kcal
• Fat: 6-8g
• Carbohydrates: 11-13g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 8-10g

Ingredients

For the Cannoli Bites:

• 1 package of mini cannoli shells (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese (drained)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped pistachios (optional)
• ¼ cup candied orange peel (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ricotta Filling

Start by draining the ricotta cheese to remove any excess moisture. This step is essential for ensuring the filling isn’t too runny and holds its shape when piped into the cannoli shells. Place the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth and let it drain for at least 30 minutes.

Once the ricotta is drained, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Stir until everything is well combined, creating a smooth, sweet mixture. The vanilla and cinnamon add depth to the flavor, giving the filling a rich, comforting taste.

2. Add Optional Mix-ins

At this point, you can choose to add any additional mix-ins to the ricotta filling. Mini chocolate chips are a popular choice, adding an extra layer of sweetness and texture to the filling. Alternatively, you can mix in chopped pistachios for a crunchy, nutty contrast or candied orange peel for a citrusy twist that complements the sweet ricotta filling.

Mix in your desired additions gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. The optional mix-ins are entirely up to you, so feel free to get creative and make the filling your own.

3. Chill the Filling

Once the filling is prepared, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the filling helps it firm up and makes it easier to pipe into the cannoli shells. The cool temperature also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer, more flavorful filling.

4. Prepare the Cannoli Shells

While the filling chills, prepare the mini cannoli shells. If you’re using store-bought mini cannoli shells, make sure they’re fresh and crispy. These can typically be found at specialty stores or in the international section of most grocery stores. Alternatively, you can make your own shells using a simple dough recipe, but the store-bought version saves time and ensures consistency.

If you prefer to make your own shells, follow a traditional cannoli shell recipe and roll out the dough into small rounds, then wrap them around mini cannoli forms. Fry the shells until golden brown, then let them cool completely before filling them.

5. Fill the Cannoli Shells

Once the ricotta filling has chilled, it’s time to fill the cannoli shells. Using a piping bag with a wide tip or a plastic sandwich bag with the corner cut off, pipe the filling into one end of each cannoli shell. Gently squeeze the filling into the shell, making sure it’s filled from one end to the other.

Be careful not to overfill the shells, as this could cause the filling to spill out or make the shells soggy. Aim to fill each shell with just the right amount of filling for a perfect bite-sized treat.

6. Finish with Toppings

Once all the cannoli shells are filled with the ricotta mixture, it’s time to finish them with your desired toppings. Lightly dust the filled cannoli with powdered sugar to give them a classic, elegant appearance. You can also dip the ends of the cannoli in more mini chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, or even more candied orange peel for added flavor and texture.

The optional toppings add an extra layer of flavor and make the Cannoli Bites even more visually appealing. Be as creative as you like with your choice of toppings—just remember to keep them balanced so they don’t overpower the flavor of the filling.

7. Chill the Cannoli Bites

After the Cannoli Bites are assembled, return them to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set and the flavors to develop. Chilling also helps the cannoli shells stay crisp and prevents the filling from softening too much.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Once the Cannoli Bites have chilled, they’re ready to be served! Arrange them on a platter and enjoy these delicious, bite-sized treats with friends, family, or guests. The crispy shells and creamy filling make them the perfect indulgence after a meal, or you can enjoy them on their own as a sweet snack.

Tips for Perfect Cannoli Bites

• Drain the Ricotta Well: To avoid a soggy filling, make sure the ricotta is well-drained. If necessary, press it gently to remove any excess moisture. You want the ricotta to be thick and creamy for the best texture in the filling.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the ricotta filling with your favorite add-ins. In addition to chocolate chips, pistachios, and candied orange peel, you can experiment with other mix-ins like dried fruit, chopped nuts, or even a splash of liqueur for a more adult flavor.
• Use Fresh Shells: Fresh mini cannoli shells will give your Cannoli Bites the best texture. If using store-bought shells, make sure they are crisp and not stale. If you make your own shells, fry them to a golden brown and let them cool completely before filling.
• Fill Just Before Serving: To ensure the cannoli shells stay crisp, it’s best to fill them just before serving. If you fill them too early, the shells may absorb moisture from the filling and become soggy.
• Chill for Flavor: Chilling the filling and the assembled Cannoli Bites allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the filling is firm enough to hold its shape. Don’t skip the chilling steps for the best results.

Variations of Cannoli Bites

• Chocolate Cannoli Bites: For a chocolatey twist, add cocoa powder to the ricotta filling or dip the filled cannoli in melted chocolate. You can also mix in chocolate hazelnut spread or Nutella for a rich, indulgent filling.
• Lemon Cannoli Bites: Add lemon zest and a small amount of lemon juice to the ricotta filling for a citrusy version of the classic cannoli. The refreshing lemon flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet ricotta.
• Pistachio Cannoli Bites: Add chopped pistachios to the ricotta filling or sprinkle them on top for a nutty, flavorful variation. Pistachios are a common addition to traditional cannoli and add a nice crunch.
• Mini Cannoli Tacos: For a fun twist, try shaping the cannoli shells into mini taco shapes and fill them with the ricotta mixture. This variation makes for a playful presentation and unique eating experience.

Storage and Shelf Life

Cannoli Bites are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. To keep them at their best:

• Refrigeration: Store the filled Cannoli Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The filling will stay fresh, but the shells may soften over time. For the best texture, enjoy them within 1-2 days of preparation.
• Freezing: Cannoli shells can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. To freeze, place the empty shells in an airtight container and freeze them until you’re ready to use them. When you’re ready to fill them, simply thaw the shells and prepare the filling as usual.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Cannoli Bites

While Cannoli Bites are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary treats can enhance your dessert experience:

• Coffee or Espresso: A rich, dark cup of coffee or espresso is the perfect beverage to pair with these sweet, creamy bites. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the cannoli filling.
• Gelato: Serve the Cannoli Bites with a scoop of traditional Italian gelato in flavors like pistachio, chocolate, or vanilla for a truly indulgent dessert combination.
• Fresh Berries: A light fruit platter of fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Cannoli Bites.

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Conclusion

Cannoli Bites offer the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of cannoli in a convenient, bite-sized form. These little treats are crispy, creamy, and customizable, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them with a cup of coffee, or gifting them to friends and family, Cannoli Bites are sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless variations, they’re the perfect addition to any baker’s repertoire. Enjoy the irresistible flavors of these mini Italian treats—they’re sure to become a favorite!