Cannoli

Grandma used to make cannoli for special occasions. Cannoli make an appearance in one of my favorite movie lines of all time: "Leave the gun, take the cannoli" as seen in the clip from the Godfather below.

I love cannoli, but I have never actually made them. I was always intimidated by the need to deep fry the shells. But, if you buy pre-made cannoli shells, making cannoli is easy and allows you to make them to suit your own tastes. I bought mini cannoli shells instead of the regular larger size because they are easier to eat.

In order to fill the cannoli shells, I found a new use for my cookie press. Using one of the decorator tips that came along with the cookie press kit, it was very easy to fill the shells. I used mini chocolate chips, maraschino cherries and pistachio nuts for these cannoli. You could use other fruits, like candied orange, or any other toppings. The nice thing about making your own cannoli is that there is unlimited customization options.

Cannoli 

• Cannoli shells
• 16 oz. chilled and drained ricotta cheese
• 2/3 cup confectioners sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• dash cinnamon
• optional: mini Chocolate chips, maraschino cherries, pistachio nuts

Combine the chilled, drained ricotta cheese and confectioners sugar. Mix well. Add in vanilla and cinnamon. The optional ingredients can be added into the cannoli cream or can be reserved to put on the ends of the cannoli. Refrigerate the cannoli cream for a few hours. Fill the cannoli shells with the cannoli cream. Place chocolate chips, nuts or cherries on the ends. Enjoy!