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Instructions:
1. Make the Cannoli Shells:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Add the cubed, chilled butter into the dry ingredients, cutting it in using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Beat the egg and add it to the mixture, followed by the white wine, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour as needed. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
- After the dough has rested, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles about 4 inches in diameter. If you prefer smaller cannoli, you can use a smaller cutter.
3. Shape the Cannoli Shells:
- Lightly oil your cannoli tubes (metal cylinders used for frying). This helps the dough not to stick during the frying process.
- Wrap each dough circle around the tube, sealing the edges with a little water to keep the dough from unrolling.
4. Fry the Cannoli Shells:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully lower the cannoli tubes into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Use tongs to turn the cannoli occasionally for even frying.
- Once golden, remove the shells from the oil and set them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Let the shells cool slightly before carefully removing them from the tubes. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
- If desired, fold in the mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
6. Assemble the Cannoli:
- Once the shells have completely cooled, use a pastry bag or a zip-top bag with the tip cut off to pipe the ricotta filling into each shell. Fill from both ends to ensure the filling reaches the center of the shell.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Optionally, dip the ends of the cannoli in mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios for added crunch and flavor.
- Dust the filled cannoli with powdered sugar just before serving for a polished, finishing touch.
8. Serve Immediately:
- Cannoli are best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the shells. Serve them as a dessert after a family meal or at a special gathering.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Cannoli:
- Drain the Ricotta: Ensure that the ricotta cheese is well-drained before making the filling. Excess moisture will make the filling runny and can affect the texture of the cannoli.
- Fry at the Right Temperature: Be sure your oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C) before frying. If it’s too hot, the shells will brown too quickly and remain raw inside. If it’s too cool, they will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
- Don’t Overfill: When filling the cannoli, be careful not to overstuff the shells, as this could cause the filling to spill out.
- Make Ahead: The shells can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. Fill them just before serving to preserve the crunch.
Why Crispy Cannoli?
Crispy cannoli offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The crisp, crunchy shell contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy filling, and the slightly sweet ricotta with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon creates a luscious taste that will keep you coming back for more. With the option to customize with chocolate chips, pistachios, or candied fruit, you can make this traditional dessert your own.
Whether you’re making these for a special occasion, a holiday, or just as a treat, crispy cannoli are sure to impress. Their unique texture, delightful filling, and rich flavors make them a showstopper dessert that’s both timeless and irresistible.
Conclusion:
Crispy cannoli are a quintessential Italian dessert that can bring a touch of sweetness and elegance to any meal. With a crispy, flaky shell and a luscious, creamy ricotta filling, they are a perfect way to end a dinner party or impress guests with your baking skills. So roll up your sleeves, get the frying oil heated, and indulge in the deliciousness of this classic treat—crispy cannoli will never go out of style!
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