Classic Cannoli

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Cannoli.

1. Step 1

   To create delicious cannoli shells, start by mixing flour, sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl.

2. Step 2

   Next, cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, creating a delightful base for your shells.

3. Step 3

   Make a well in the center of this mixture and pour in the Marsala wine, water, vinegar, egg, and egg yolk.

4. Step 4

   Using a fork, mix everything together until the dough becomes stiff.

5. Step 5

   Then, transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead it by hand for about 10 minutes, adding a little more water if needed to achieve the right consistency.

6. Step 6

   Once your dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours—this step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

7. Step 7

   After the dough has chilled, divide it into three equal portions.

8. Step 8

   Gently flatten each portion to make it easier to roll through a pasta machine.

9. Step 9

   Gradually roll each piece through the machine, adjusting to thinner settings until the dough reaches its thinnest form.

10. Step 10

    Don’t forget to dust the dough lightly with flour as you go to prevent sticking.

11. Step 11

    Now, on a lightly floured surface, use a cutter or a large glass to cut the rolled dough into circles about 4 to 5 inches in diameter.

12. Step 12

    Dust these circles with a bit of flour to make them easier to handle later.

13. Step 13

    Take each circle and wrap it around a cannoli tube, sealing the edge with a touch of egg white.

14. Step 14

    Repeat this delightful process with the remaining dough until you have a batch of ready-to-fry shells.

15. Step 15

    Heat oil in a deep fryer or a deep skillet to 375°F (190°C).

16. Step 16

    Carefully fry the dough-wrapped tubes in batches until they turn a beautiful golden brown, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

17. Step 17

    Remember to turn them as needed for even cooking.

18. Step 18

    Once they’re perfectly fried, use tongs to remove the shells and place them on a cooling rack set over paper towels to drain any excess oil.

19. Step 19

    Let the shells cool just enough to handle, then gently twist the tubes to release the shells.

20. Step 20

    Clean the tubes and set them aside for the remaining dough.

21. Step 21

    Store your cooled shells in an airtight container, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months.

22. Step 22

    Just remember to fill them right before serving, or up to an hour in advance for the best taste.

23. Step 23

    For the luscious filling, combine ricotta cheese and confectioners' sugar in a large bowl, mixing until well blended.

24. Step 24

    Fold in some chocolate and a hint of lemon zest for that extra zing.

25. Step 25

    Transfer this creamy mixture into a pastry bag and pipe it into the cooled shells, filling them from one end to the other.

26. Step 26

    For a final touch, dust the filled cannoli with a sprinkle of confectioners' sugar before serving.

27. Step 27

    Enjoy the delightful crunch and creamy filling of your homemade cannoli—perfect for sharing with friends and family or savoring all on your own!.