Imagine biting into a crisp, delicate pizzelle shell filled with a creamy, luxurious ricotta mixture that melts in your mouth. This isn't just another dessert - it's a culinary journey that transforms traditional Italian treats into a spectacular fusion of flavors and textures. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious food lover, these Pizzelle Cannoli will transport you straight to the charming streets of Italy, promising an unforgettable sweet experience that will have your guests begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Chocolate chips (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pizzelle Batter: • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until light and fluffy • Gradually add melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly • Sift flour and baking powder together, then gently fold into the wet ingredients • Mix until a smooth, consistent batter forms without overmixing
- Make Pizzelle Shells: • Preheat a pizzelle iron to medium-high heat • Lightly grease the iron with non-stick cooking spray • Pour about 1-2 tablespoons of batter into the center of each pizzelle mold • Close the iron and cook for 30-45 seconds until golden brown • Carefully remove and immediately drape over a rolling pin to create a curved shape • Allow to cool and harden completely
- Prepare Ricotta Filling: • In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and cinnamon • Whisk until smooth and creamy • Transfer mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip • Refrigerate filling for 15 minutes to firm up
- Assemble Cannoli: • Once pizzelle shells are completely cooled, pipe ricotta filling into each shell • Gently fill from both ends to ensure even distribution • Sprinkle chocolate chips on the exposed filling • Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired
- Serving and Storage: • Serve immediately for best texture • Store unfilled pizzelle shells in an airtight container • Keep filled cannoli refrigerated and consume within 24 hours • Best enjoyed the same day they are prepared
Tips
- • Ensure your pizzelle iron is evenly heated to achieve consistent golden-brown shells • Don't overmix the batter - this can lead to tough, dense pizzelles • Work quickly when shaping the hot pizzelles over a rolling pin to create the classic cannoli curve • Use full-fat ricotta for the creamiest, most luxurious filling • Pipe the ricotta filling just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the shells • For extra flavor, consider adding orange zest to the ricotta mixture or a splash of amaretto liqueur • If you don't have a star tip for piping, a zip-lock bag with a corner cut works perfectly • Let the pizzelle shells cool completely before filling to prevent sogginess • For a professional touch, garnish with mini chocolate chips or a light dusting of powdered sugar
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
