Mini Cannoli Cups are a delightful treat that brings the classic Italian dessert right to your home in an easy-to-eat format. These little cups are filled with a creamy ricotta mixture and offer a delicious blend of flavors. They are perfect for parties, special occasions, or a sweet snack any time!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Mini Cannoli Cups is a fun and simple way to enjoy a popular dessert without all the fuss. They are quick to prepare and require only a few basic ingredients. These little treats are sure to impress your family and friends, and your taste buds will thank you too. Whether you are a baking novice or a seasoned expert, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers great results every time.
How to Make Mini Cannoli Cups
Ingredients:
- 1 container (15 oz) whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange or lemon zest
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, granulated sugar, and orange or lemon zest.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the filling into mini pastry cups.
- Optionally, garnish with chocolate chips or crushed pistachios.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
How to Serve Mini Cannoli Cups
Mini Cannoli Cups are best served fresh. You can arrange them on a platter for a beautiful presentation. If you choose to add garnishes, sprinkle chocolate chips or crushed pistachios on top for added texture and flavor. They make an excellent dessert for parties or family gatherings, and everyone will love their bite-sized charm!
How to Store Mini Cannoli Cups
If you have any leftovers, store the filled cannoli cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, they are best enjoyed fresh. If you are making them ahead of time, consider storing the filling and pastry cups separately and filling them just before serving.
Tips to Make Mini Cannoli Cups
- Use whole-milk ricotta cheese for a rich and creamy filling.
- Be sure to mix the filling well until it’s smooth. This helps create a light texture.
- Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding a splash of vanilla extract or using different citrus zest.
- Chill the filling for about 30 minutes before filling the pastry cups for an even better flavor.
Variation
For a different twist, try adding mini chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey touch. You can also substitute almond extract for the citrus zest for a nutty flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?
Yes, but using whole-milk ricotta offers a creamier texture and richer taste.
2. How do I make the pastry cups?
You can buy pre-made mini pastry cups at the store for convenience. If you prefer to make your own, use phyllo dough or pie crust rolled into small rounds and baked in a mini muffin tin.
3. Can I freeze Mini Cannoli Cups?
It’s best not to freeze them once filled, as the pastry can become soggy. However, you can freeze the filling and the pastry cups separately for future use. Just thaw and assemble before serving.
Mini Cannoli Cups
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 1 container (15 oz) whole-milk ricotta cheese Use whole-milk for a richer filling.
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange or lemon zest Can use different citrus zest for variation.
Optional Garnishes
- to taste chocolate chips For garnishing.
- to taste crushed pistachios For garnishing.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, granulated sugar, and orange or lemon zest.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the filling into mini pastry cups.
- Optionally, garnish with chocolate chips or crushed pistachios.
Serving
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
