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These Cannoli Bites offer all the charm of classic Italian cannoli in quick handheld form making them a brilliant treat for parties or family gatherings When you want cannoli flavor but do not want the fuss of homemade shells this recipe gets you to crisp creamy bites in under an hour
I first made these for a summer birthday and the whole tray vanished before dinner was served Ever since they have been my most requested party dessert
Ingredients
- Frozen phyllo tart shells: These are the key shortcut look for shells that feel light and flaky in the freezer section
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps the cinnamon stick to the shells
- Ground cinnamon: Brings classic cannoli warmth Try to find cinnamon with a strong aroma
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the shells brown choose high quality for best flavor
- Whole milk ricotta: Drained ricotta is a must for creamy not watery filling buy fresh from the deli case for best results
- Confectioners sugar: Sweetens the filling and gives it that classic smoothness sift first to avoid lumps
- Orange zest: Freshly grated adds a pop of brightness and brings out traditional Sicilian flavor
- Pure vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor use real extract for a natural taste
- Mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios: For topping Both add texture and color buy mini chips for a perfect bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toast the Phyllo Shells:
- Place the frozen shells on a baking sheet and brush each with melted butter This helps them crisp up and brown evenly Mix the sugar and cinnamon then sprinkle generously over each shell for flavor
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake the shells at four hundred twenty five degrees for about eight minutes Watch closely so they turn gold but do not burn Cool completely to keep the filling from melting
- Mix the Ricotta Cream:
- In a medium bowl whisk drained ricotta confectioners sugar orange zest and vanilla together Go slowly and whisk well so the filling becomes velvety and free from lumps Transfer the filling to a zip-top bag and chill until needed
- Fill the Shells:
- Arrange cooled shells on your serving platter Snip a small corner off the filled bag and pipe a generous swirl of ricotta filling into each shell Fill just before serving to keep everything crisp
- Finish with Toppings:
- Press mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios into the top of each bite For a bakery style finish add a light dusting of confectioners sugar right before serving
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You Must Know
- Naturally vegetarian and kid friendly
- No frying or rolling needed so the recipe is simple and fuss free
- Easy to double for a crowd and leftovers keep well for one or two days
For me the orange zest is the real secret It takes the filling from basic to unforgettable My grandmother always added citrus to her cannoli so this part feels like a sweet connection to her kitchen
Storage Tips
Leftover cannoli bites store well in the fridge If your party runs long or if you want to prep ahead keep shells and filling separate and combine right before serving Filled bites are best within a day or two but still taste great the next day
Ingredient Substitutions
No phyllo tart shells Swap with ready mini sugar cookie shells or even scoop into small waffle cone pieces For a nut free option skip the pistachios and stick with classic chocolate chips
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chilled as part of a dessert platter with fresh fruit or other Italian cookies For an extra touch drizzle with a little melted chocolate or add a sprinkle of crushed amaretti
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Cultural Context
Cannoli are a staple of Sicilian pastry traditions but this version offers all that creamy spiced flavor in a format suited for modern gatherings They capture everything I love about Italian baking in one neat bite
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, the ricotta filling can be made up to 2 days early. Store it refrigerated in a sealed bag until ready to use.
- → How should I serve these cannoli bites?
Pipe the creamy filling into cooled phyllo shells just before serving and top with chocolate chips or pistachios.
- → Can I use store-bought tart shells?
Frozen phyllo tart shells work perfectly and save time while delivering a crispy, flaky base.
- → What can I substitute for pistachios?
Chopped walnuts, almonds, or simply extra chocolate chips can replace pistachios for added variety.
- → How do I achieve a smooth filling?
Thoroughly drain the ricotta before mixing and whisk the filling well to ensure a silky texture.
- → Can I add other flavors?
Yes, feel free to mix in a hint of lemon zest, chopped candied fruit, or cinnamon to the ricotta mixture for extra depth.