Authentic Cannoli Filling Recipe With Chocolate Chips and Pistachios

For this recipe, I decided to buy the shells to save some time and sanity while making the filling from scratch, but you can totally make the shells yourself if you’re feeling adventurous. I hope you enjoy the rich and creamy combination of mascarpone and ricotta filling as much as I do. Let’s get started!

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• 24 cannoli shells: These crispy shells are the perfect vessel for our delicious filling.
• 400 grams/2 cups of ricotta (drained overnight): Ricotta is the star of the filling, providing a creamy, smooth texture.
• 200 grams/1 cup mascarpone: Adds a rich, velvety texture and depth of flavor.
• ¾ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without making it too heavy.
• 2 tsp vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Lemon zest from 1 large lemon, optional: Adds a fresh, zesty brightness to the filling. You could also use orange zest.
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips: For those who love a bit of chocolatey goodness in their cannoli.
• ¼ cup crushed pistachios: Adds a delightful crunch and a hint of nutty flavor.
• 5 oz melted chocolate, optional: For dipping the shells, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

Mascarpone Cream Filling Recipe

Easy Tiramisu Without Eggs

• Mixing bowls
• Stand Mixer, Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Piping bag or zip-top bag
• Small bowls for dipping
• Baking sheet (for cooling dipped shells)

1. Drain the Ricotta: Place the ricotta in a cheesecloth-lined strainer and let it drain overnight in the refrigerator to remove excess moisture.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Divide the Filling: If desired, divide the filling into two separate bowls. Add mini chocolate chips to one bowl, leaving the other one plain.
4. Melt Chocolate and Dip the Cannoli Shells:
   • Microwave Method: Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it at 50% power in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each burst, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
   • Double Boiler Method: Fill a pot with a couple of inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl on top of the pot, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add the chocolate to the bowl and stir continuously until it is fully melted and smooth.
   • Dip the ends of the cannoli shells into the melted chocolate. For variety, dip some into crushed pistachios immediately after dipping in chocolate. Place on a baking sheet to set.
5. Let the Chocolate Set:
   • Place the dipped cannoli shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature, or place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
6. Fill the Cannoli: Once the chocolate is set, use a piping bag or zip-top bag to fill the cannoli shells with the prepared fillings. You can mix and match, making some with just the chocolate chip filling, some with pistachio-dipped ends and chocolate chip filling, and some plain. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the filled cannoli on a serving platter and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The best results come from using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• Drain Ricotta Properly: Make sure to drain the ricotta overnight to avoid a runny filling.
• Variety is Key: Feel free to experiment with different combinations of fillings and toppings.
• Serve Fresh: Cannoli are best enjoyed fresh, so fill them just before serving to keep the shells crisp.

1. Chocolate Hazelnut Cannoli:
   • Ingredients: Mix 2 tablespoons of Nutella into the filling for a rich chocolate hazelnut flavor.
   • Toppings: Garnish with chopped hazelnuts and drizzle with melted chocolate.
2. Citrus Burst Cannoli:
   • Ingredients: Add the zest of one orange or lime along with the lemon zest and a teaspoon of lemon juice for a bright, zesty filling.
   • Toppings: Dip the ends in white chocolate and sprinkle with candied citrus peel.
3. Almond Cannoli:
   • Ingredients: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the filling and substitute crushed almonds for the pistachios for dipping.
   • Toppings: Garnish with slivered almonds
4. Peanut Butter Chocolate Cannoli:
   • Ingredients: Swirl 2 tablespoons of peanut butter into the filling for a nutty twist.
   • Toppings: Dip the ends in milk chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peanuts.
5. Coconut Cannoli:
   • Ingredients: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical touch.
   • Toppings: Dip the ends in dark chocolate and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes or pieces.

1. Walnuts: Substitute walnuts for a rich, earthy flavor.
2. Pecans: Use chopped pecans for a slightly sweet and buttery crunch.
3. Macadamia Nuts: Add chopped macadamia nuts for a creamy, tropical flavor.
4. Hazelnuts: Perfect for a chocolate hazelnut variation or simply for a different texture.

You can also dip the shells into the filling instead of filling them for a fun and easy alternative.

These variations will help you create a range of delicious cannoli that cater to different tastes. Feel free to mix and match the ingredients and toppings to come up with your own unique creations!

Draining the ricotta overnight helps remove excess moisture and results in a thicker, creamier filling. However, if you’re short on time, you can still make the filling without draining the ricotta. Just be aware that the filling might be slightly softer but still delicious.

Yes, you can, but the mascarpone adds extra creaminess and richness to the filling.

Filled cannoli are best enjoyed immediately. If you need to store them, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a day, but note that the shells may soften over time.

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Fill the cannoli shells just before serving.

Absolutely! Dark, milk, or white chocolate can be used for dipping the shells or adding to the filling.

I hope you enjoy these cannolis as much as my family and I did! Whether you prefer chocolate-dipped, pistachio-crusted, or plain, there’s a version for everyone to enjoy. Let me know what you think of the recipe in the comments and share your creations with me on Instagram @thesprinkledcakery!

If you love this authentic cannoli recipe, be sure to check out my delicious Easy Tiramisu Without Eggs recipe for another delicious mascarpone Italian dessert!

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