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Cherry-Filled Cannoli with Ricotta Cream

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Cherry-Filled Cannoli with Ricotta Cream is a classic Italian pastry featuring crisp shells and a rich, creamy ricotta filling accented with sweet cherries—perfect for festive occasions or elegant desserts.

Ingredients

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  • 12 cannoli shells (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • 3/4 cup maraschino or fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Place ricotta in a cheesecloth-lined strainer over a bowl and refrigerate overnight to drain excess moisture.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat the drained ricotta with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth.
  3. Optional: Whip the heavy cream separately and fold it into the ricotta mixture for a lighter texture.
  4. Gently stir in chopped cherries and mini chocolate chips (if using).
  5. Fill a piping bag or zip-top bag with the ricotta cream mixture and pipe it into both ends of each cannoli shell.
  6. Dust the filled cannoli with powdered sugar before serving.
  7. Serve immediately for best texture and crispness.

Notes

  • Drain ricotta overnight for a thicker, creamier filling.
  • Fill cannoli just before serving to avoid soggy shells.
  • Use high-quality ricotta and cherries for best flavor.
  • Try dipping shell edges in chocolate and adding chopped pistachios or amaretti crumbs for extra flair.
  • Store components separately if making ahead.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyera.com/cherry-filled-cannoli-with-ricotta-cream/