Mini Cannoli Cups

Introduction

Discover a delightful twist on the traditional Italian cannoli with these Mini Cannoli Cups. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet treat, these mini versions offer all the creamy goodness of the classic dessert in a bite-sized form. Learn how to make these delectable treats with our easy-to-follow recipe that combines crispy, sweet shells with a rich, creamy filling.

Ingredients

For the Shells:

• 1 package of pre-made phyllo dough (or cannoli shells if available)
• 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• Cooking spray or melted butter for brushing

For the Filling:

• 2 cups of ricotta cheese (drained)
• 1 cup of mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup of powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped pistachios or toasted almonds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shells:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If using phyllo dough, brush each sheet lightly with melted butter or cooking spray and stack them. Cut the stacked sheets into 3-inch squares.
• Gently press each square into a mini muffin tin to form cups.
• Sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon mixture over the phyllo squares.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cups are golden brown and crisp. Allow them to cool completely before filling.

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix until smooth and creamy.
• Fold in mini chocolate chips if using.
• Transfer the filling into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner cut off for easy filling.

1. Assemble the Mini Cannoli Cups:

• Pipe the filling into the cooled phyllo cups, generously filling each one.
• Garnish with finely chopped pistachios or toasted almonds for added texture and flavor.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the Mini Cannoli Cups immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. They make an excellent addition to any dessert table and are sure to impress your guests with their elegant appearance and delicious taste.

Tips for Success

• Draining Ricotta: To avoid a watery filling, make sure to drain the ricotta cheese well before mixing.
• Pre-Made Shells: If you can find pre-made cannoli shells, feel free to use them as a shortcut. Simply fill them with the prepared mixture.
• Customization: Experiment with different garnishes such as maraschino cherries, candied orange peel, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Mini Cannoli Cups are a delightful and charming variation of the classic cannoli. With their crispy shells and creamy filling, they offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet dessert at home, these mini treats are sure to be a hit. Try making them today and experience the joy of this beloved Italian dessert in a new and exciting way!

Serving and Storage Tips for Mini Cannoli Cups

Serving Tips:

1. Timing: Serve Mini Cannoli Cups fresh for the best texture. The crispy shells are most enjoyable when they haven’t been sitting for too long.
2. Garnishes: Garnish with chopped pistachios, toasted almonds, or a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving to add a touch of elegance and flavor.
3. Presentation: Arrange the Mini Cannoli Cups on a decorative platter or dessert stand to highlight their visual appeal. For an extra special touch, add a few fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for color and freshness.
4. Serving Temperature: These treats can be served chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. If they have been refrigerated, allow them to sit out for about 15-20 minutes before serving to bring them to room temperature and enhance their flavor.
5. Accompaniments: Pair with a light coffee or espresso for a classic Italian experience. They also complement a glass of dessert wine or a sweet liqueur.

Storage Tips:

1. Short-Term Storage: If you need to store Mini Cannoli Cups for a short period, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will maintain the crispiness of the shells for up to 24 hours.
2. Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, keep the filled Mini Cannoli Cups in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. However, the shells may soften slightly over time.
3. Shells and Filling: To keep the shells crispy, store them separately from the filling. Place the cooled shells in an airtight container at room temperature and the filling in the refrigerator. Fill the shells just before serving.
4. Freezing: If you plan to make these in advance, freeze the unfilled shells. To do this, let the shells cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to use, thaw them at room temperature and fill with the fresh filling.
5. Handling: Be gentle when handling filled Mini Cannoli Cups as the filling can be delicate. Use a small spatula or tongs to transfer them to serving platters.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Mini Cannoli Cups remain delicious and presentable for any occasion.

1. Can I use pre-made cannoli shells instead of phyllo dough?

• Yes, absolutely! Pre-made cannoli shells are a great alternative to phyllo dough. Simply fill them with the ricotta and mascarpone mixture as directed in the recipe. This option can save time and still deliver delicious results.

1. How can I make Mini Cannoli Cups in advance?

• You can prepare the components ahead of time. Bake and store the empty shells at room temperature for up to 24 hours, or freeze them for longer storage. The filling can be made and refrigerated for up to 2-3 days. Assemble the Mini Cannoli Cups just before serving to ensure the shells remain crispy.

1. Can I customize the filling for Mini Cannoli Cups?

• Definitely! The filling can be customized to suit your taste. Try adding different flavorings like lemon zest, almond extract, or a splash of liqueur. You can also mix in various ingredients such as fruit preserves, candied orange peel, or even a swirl of Nutella.

1. What should I do if my ricotta filling is too runny?

• Draining the ricotta well is key. If your filling is too runny, make sure to drain the ricotta cheese thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients. You can also use a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture. If the filling is still too loose, you can add a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it up.