Chocolate-Covered Cannoli Rolls with Nut Crunch are a modern twist on the traditional Sicilian dessert. Featuring a crispy cannoli shell rolled around a creamy ricotta filling, dipped in rich chocolate, and topped with a crunchy nut blend, this dessert is decadent, elegant, and perfect for special occasions or gourmet snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines all the beloved elements of classic cannoli with a creative, indulgent touch. The creamy, lightly sweet ricotta filling is encased in a crisp shell, enrobed in smooth chocolate, and finished with a nutty crunch for added texture. It’s a delicious, make-ahead dessert that will wow guests and elevate your dessert table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cannoli shells (store-bought or homemade)
- Ricotta cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Mini chocolate chips
- Dark or milk chocolate (for coating)
- Chopped pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts
- Orange zest (optional)
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips. Mix until smooth.
- If using orange zest or cinnamon, gently fold them into the mixture.
- Spoon the ricotta filling into a piping bag and fill each cannoli shell.
- In a microwave or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate until smooth.
- Dip each filled cannoli roll halfway into the melted chocolate.
- Immediately sprinkle the dipped ends with chopped nuts.
- Place the cannoli on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate until the chocolate sets.
- Serve chilled or slightly room temperature for best flavor.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 8 cannoli rolls
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Use white chocolate for dipping for a different flavor and appearance.
- Swap ricotta with mascarpone for a richer filling.
- Add a dash of espresso powder to the filling for a coffee twist.
- Substitute the nut topping with shredded coconut or crushed toffee.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Not applicable. Cannoli are best served cold or at room temperature. Do not microwave.
FAQs
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How do I keep the cannoli shells crispy?
Fill the shells just before serving or keep them refrigerated after filling to maintain crispiness.
Can I use mascarpone instead of ricotta?
Yes, mascarpone can be used for a creamier texture, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Can I freeze chocolate-covered cannoli?
It’s not recommended, as freezing can affect the texture of the shell and the filling.
What kind of chocolate works best for dipping?
Use a high-quality melting chocolate like couverture chocolate for best results.
What are good nut options for the topping?
Pistachios, almonds, and hazelnuts all work well. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, if you can find or make gluten-free cannoli shells, the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I prevent soggy cannoli?
Only fill the shells shortly before serving. You can also lightly brush the inside with melted chocolate to create a moisture barrier.
Can I flavor the filling?
Absolutely. Popular options include orange zest, cinnamon, cocoa powder, or almond extract.
Is this a good make-ahead dessert?
Yes, you can fill and dip them a few hours ahead of time. Just keep them chilled until serving.
Conclusion
Chocolate-Covered Cannoli Rolls with Nut Crunch are a luxurious take on a beloved classic. Rich, creamy, crispy, and crunchy, they’re the perfect dessert for anyone who enjoys a blend of traditional and contemporary flavors. This recipe is easy enough for a weekend treat but impressive enough for any gathering.
PrintChocolate-Covered Cannoli Rolls with Nut Crunch
Chocolate-Covered Cannoli Rolls with Nut Crunch are a modern take on the traditional Sicilian treat, filled with creamy ricotta, dipped in rich chocolate, and finished with a crunchy nut topping for a decadent dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 cannoli rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 cannoli shells (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
- 6 oz dark or milk chocolate, chopped (for coating)
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts
- 1 tsp orange zest (optional)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips. Mix until smooth.
- If using orange zest or cinnamon, gently fold them into the mixture.
- Spoon the ricotta filling into a piping bag and fill each cannoli shell.
- Melt the chocolate in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
- Dip each filled cannoli roll halfway into the melted chocolate.
- Immediately sprinkle the dipped ends with chopped nuts.
- Place the cannoli on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate until the chocolate sets.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- Use white chocolate for a different look and flavor.
- Mascarpone can replace ricotta for a richer filling.
- For added depth, mix in espresso powder or cocoa.
- Toast the nuts before using to enhance flavor.
- Fill the cannoli just before serving to keep shells crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cannoli roll
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg