Cannoli cups bring all the classic flavors of traditional Italian cannoli into a fun, bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Instead of rolling delicate shells, we bake crispy cups that hold a rich, creamy ricotta filling mixed with hints of vanilla and chocolate chips. This twist makes them easier to assemble and even more enjoyable to share.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Cannoli Cups, we’ll need specific ingredients for the crispy cups, the creamy filling, and the final garnish. Each component comes together to create the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
For the Cannoli Cups
To bake the crisp cannoli shells shaped as cups, gather these ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
Our classic ricotta filling is rich and smooth with subtle flavors and chocolate chips to add the iconic cannoli twist:
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, drained well
- ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini dark chocolate chips
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for warm spice)
- 2 tablespoons orange zest (freshly grated, optional for citrus brightness)
For Garnish
To complete the dish and add lovely finishing touches, use:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | For dusting | Adds a delicate sweetness |
| Chopped pistachios | 2 tablespoons | Adds crunch and color contrast |
| Mini chocolate chips | 1 tablespoon | Enhances chocolate flavor |
| Fresh mint leaves | A few | For visual appeal and freshness |
By preparing these ingredients carefully, we ensure every bite of our Cannoli Cup Recipe delights with the perfect harmony of crisp, creamy, and sweet elements.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To create perfect Cannoli Cups with crispy shells and a smooth ricotta filling, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Below, we list the must-haves to ensure a seamless process from baking to assembling these delightful treats.
Baking Tools
- Muffin tin: We use this to shape and bake the crisp cannoli cups evenly.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking if baking smaller cup shapes separately.
- Mixing bowls: At least two — one for making the dough and another for preparing the ricotta filling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement is key for consistent dough texture and filling sweetness.
Preparation Tools
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the cannoli dough to the perfect thickness.
- Whisk or electric mixer: To blend the ricotta filling until smooth and creamy.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in chocolate chips without deflating the filling.
Assembly and Finishing Tools
- Piping bag or resealable plastic bag: For neatly filling the cannoli cups with the ricotta mixture.
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer: To dust powdered sugar evenly over the finished cups.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping pistachios and fresh mint garnishes.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Muffin tin | Baking the cannoli cups |
| Parchment paper | Prevent sticking on baking sheets |
| Mixing bowls | Preparing dough and filling |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Rolling pin | Flattening dough |
| Whisk / Electric mixer | Smooth and airy ricotta filling |
| Rubber spatula | Folding in add-ins gently |
| Piping bag / Plastic bag | Filling the cups precisely |
| Sifter | Dusting powdered sugar |
| Knife and cutting board | Chopping garnishes |
By gathering these tools ahead of time, we ensure that our Cannoli Cup recipe proceeds smoothly and efficiently, resulting in crisp, flavorful cups filled with delectable ricotta cream every time.
Directions
Let’s embark on making our delicious Cannoli Cup Recipe step-by-step, ensuring perfect crispy cups and a luscious creamy filling. Follow these instructions carefully for an amazing dessert experience.
Preparing the Cannoli Cups
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Position a rack in the center.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Cut 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or fork until pea-sized crumbs form.
- Mix wet components: Whisk 1/4 cup milk and 1 egg yolk together. Gradually stir into flour mixture, forming a dough.
- Knead lightly: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead gently 4-5 times until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill 30 minutes.
- Roll out dough: Using a rolling pin, roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut circles: Using a 3-inch cookie cutter, punch out 12 circles.
- Shape cups: Gently press each circle into the wells of a greased muffin tin, forming well-defined cups.
- Bake cups: Bake for 12-14 minutes, until edges are golden brown and crisp.
- Cool completely: Remove tins from oven. Let cups cool 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack.
Making the Filling
- Drain ricotta: Place 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese in a fine sieve lined with cheesecloth or paper towels. Let drain for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Whisk filling: In a medium bowl, combine drained ricotta, 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
- Fold in chocolate chips: Add 1/4 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips gently to the mixture.
- Chill filling: Cover and refrigerate at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and firm up texture for piping.
Assembling the Cannoli Cups
- Prepare piping bag: Spoon ricotta filling into a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
- Fill cups: Pipe filling evenly into each cooled cannoli cup, filling just to the top to avoid overflow.
- Add garnish: Sprinkle each cup with optional chopped pistachios, mini chocolate chips, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
- Add fresh accents: Place a fresh mint leaf on each cup for color and aroma.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 2 hours before serving for best flavor and texture.
| Step | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 375°F (190°C) |
| Dough Thickness | 1/8 inch |
| Cut Size | 3-inch circles |
| Baking Time | 12-14 minutes |
| Ricotta Drain Time | 15 minutes |
| Filling Chill Time | 20 minutes |
Pro Tip: Chilling the dough and filling well ensures crisp cups and smooth filling that holds shape beautifully.
Tips and Variations
To elevate our Cannoli Cup Recipe even further, consider these essential tips and creative variations. They ensure our cannoli cups turn out perfectly crisp with a flavorful filling every time.
Tips for Perfect Cannoli Cups
- Chill the dough before rolling and cutting. This prevents shrinking and keeps the cups crisp during baking.
- Roll the dough to a uniform thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm) for even baking and ideal cup sturdiness.
- Use a well-greased muffin tin or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cups.
- Bake until the edges are golden brown but not burnt — roughly 15-18 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
- Drain ricotta thoroughly by placing it in a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for at least 30 minutes to avoid soggy filling.
- Chill the filling for at least 1 hour; this thickens the texture, making piping smoother.
- Pipe filling just before serving to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.
Flavor and Filling Variations
We can experiment with filling flavors and add-ins to customize our cannoli cups.
| Variation | Description | Recommended Add-ins |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Cannoli | Add melted dark or milk chocolate to the filling. | Mini chocolate chips, chocolate shavings |
| Fruit-Infused | Mix in finely chopped candied orange or lemon peel. | Fresh berries, zest of citrus |
| Nutty Crunch | Incorporate finely chopped toasted pistachios or almonds. | Crushed hazelnuts, walnuts |
| Spiced Ricotta | Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. | Ground cardamom, allspice |
| Mascarpone Blend | Substitute half the ricotta with mascarpone for extra creaminess. | Vanilla extract, honey |
Garnishing Ideas
To make our cannoli cups visually stunning and enhance texture:
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios or mini chocolate chips on top.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a thin twist of citrus peel.
- Drizzle with a light layer of chocolate sauce or honey for added richness.
“Mastering small details like chilling times and garnish choices transforms our cannoli cups from good to extraordinary.”
Storage Tips
To maintain flavor and texture:
| Storage Method | Instructions | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Filled cups | Cover loosely with plastic wrap, refrigerate. | Up to 24 hours |
| Unfilled cups | Store airtight at room temperature. | Up to 3 days |
| Ricotta filling | Store in an airtight container, refrigerated. | Up to 2 days |
Avoid filling the cups too far in advance to prevent moisture from softening the crisp shells.
By following these tips and exploring variations, we can tailor our Cannoli Cup Recipe to our preferred flavors and impress guests with both taste and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Cannoli Cup Recipe, we recommend serving these delightful treats with attention to presentation and complementary flavors. Here are some creative and classic serving suggestions to elevate your cannoli cups:
Plating and Presentation
- Arrange the filled cannoli cups on a decorative platter or cake stand for an inviting display.
- Dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa powder to add visual appeal.
- Garnish each cup with a fresh mint leaf or a small cluster of chopped pistachios to introduce vibrant color and texture contrast.
- Use a small drizzle of dark chocolate or caramel sauce around the plate edges for an elegant finishing touch.
Pairing Beverages
- Serve with a chilled sweet dessert wine such as Moscato or Vin Santo to complement the rich ricotta filling.
- For coffee lovers, an espresso or cappuccino perfectly balances the sweetness and adds warmth.
- Refresh guests with a light sparkling water infused with lemon or mint to cleanse the palate between bites.
Occasion Ideas
| Occasion | Serving Tip |
|---|---|
| Dinner Party | Present cannoli cups individually on small dessert plates with a fork. |
| Holiday Gatherings | Offer mini tongs or spoons for easy picking from a shared platter. |
| Casual Get-Together | Serve alongside fresh fruit or biscotti for variety and texture. |
| Birthday Bash | Decorate cups with colorful sprinkles or edible flowers for fun flair. |
Additional Serving Enhancements
- Provide a side bowl of extra chocolate chips or chopped nuts for guests to sprinkle on top.
- Incorporate a fruit compote such as cherry or orange marmalade on the side for optional dipping.
- For a more decadent treat, offer a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside the cannoli cups.
“The key to impressive Cannoli Cups is not just in the baking but also in thoughtful presentation and pairing. These small details make a big impact.”
By applying these serving suggestions, we ensure that every bite of our Cannoli Cup Recipe delights the senses visually and gastronomically.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
To preserve the deliciousness and texture of our Cannoli Cup Recipe, proper storage and make-ahead preparation are essential. Follow these detailed steps to ensure every bite remains crisp and creamy when ready to enjoy.
Storing Unfilled Cannoli Cups
- Allow the baked cups to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Place them in an airtight container to protect their crispness.
- Store at room temperature in a dry area away from moisture.
- The cups will stay fresh and crunchy for up to 3 days.
Storing Ricotta Filling
- Transfer the prepared ricotta filling to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate immediately to maintain freshness and texture.
- The filling keeps well for 2 to 3 days in the fridge.
- Before using, give it a gentle stir to restore smoothness if separation occurs.
Storing Filled Cannoli Cups
- Assemble the cups by piping the chilled ricotta filling just before serving to maintain the crispness of the shells.
- If you need to store them after filling, cover loosely with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate filled cups for up to 4 hours to prevent the shells from becoming soggy.
- Avoid longer storage as moisture absorption will compromise the crunch.
Make-Ahead Preparation Tips
| Step | Instruction | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Make and bake cups | Prepare the dough, bake, and cool cups completely | Up to 3 days ahead |
| Prepare and chill ricotta filling | Mix filling ingredients and refrigerate until firm | Up to 3 days ahead |
| Assemble filled cups | Pipe filling into cups just before serving | Within 4 hours of serving |
Pro Tip:
To save time and maximize freshness, bake the cups and prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance. Assemble just before your event for the perfect texture balance.
Freezing Instructions (Optional)
- Unfilled cups can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer-safe bag.
- Thaw at room temperature before filling.
- Freezing may mildly affect crispness but is convenient for bulk preparation.
By following these storage and make-ahead best practices, we keep our Cannoli Cups tasting fresh, crisp, and delightfully creamy for every occasion.
Conclusion
Crafting these cannoli cups is a rewarding way to bring a classic Italian dessert into a fun and shareable form. With a few simple ingredients and tools, we can create a treat that’s both visually appealing and bursting with flavor. Whether for a casual gathering or a special celebration, these cups offer versatility and deliciousness that everyone will appreciate.
By experimenting with flavors and garnishes, we can make each batch uniquely our own. Plus, with smart storage and make-ahead tips, enjoying these delightful cannoli cups becomes even easier. Let’s keep this recipe handy for whenever we’re ready to impress with a dessert that’s as charming as it is tasty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cannoli cups?
Cannoli cups are a modern twist on traditional Italian cannoli, featuring crispy baked cups filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, often enhanced with vanilla and chocolate chips for a rich flavor.
What ingredients do I need to make cannoli cups?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, milk, egg yolk for the cups, plus ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, chocolate chips for the filling. Optional garnishes include powdered sugar, chopped pistachios, mini chocolate chips, and fresh mint.
What tools are required to make cannoli cups?
Essential tools include a muffin tin, parchment paper or silicone mat, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, rolling pin, whisk or electric mixer, rubber spatula, piping bag, sifter, knife, and cutting board.
How do I bake the cannoli cups?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the dough, roll it out, cut into circles, place in a greased muffin tin, and bake until golden brown (about 15-20 minutes).
How do I prepare the filling for cannoli cups?
Drain excess moisture from ricotta, mix with powdered sugar and vanilla, then fold in chocolate chips. Chill the mixture before piping it into the baked cups.
Can I make cannoli cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cups and filling up to three days in advance. Store unfilled cups at room temperature and the filling refrigerated. Assemble just before serving.
How should I store cannoli cups?
Store unfilled cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep ricotta filling refrigerated. Filled cups should be assembled shortly before serving and can be refrigerated for up to 4 hours.
Are there variations to the classic cannoli cup recipe?
Yes, try chocolate, fruit-infused, nutty, spiced, or mascarpone blends. You can also customize garnishes like nuts, fresh fruit, or flavored syrups to suit your taste.
What are some serving suggestions for cannoli cups?
Serve on a decorative platter, dust with powdered sugar or fresh mint. Pair with dessert wines or coffee. You can garnish individually for parties or add extra toppings and fruit compote.
Can I freeze cannoli cups?
You can freeze unfilled cannoli cups in an airtight container for convenient bulk preparation. Thaw them at room temperature before filling and serving.