Cannoli are a traditional Italian dessert originating from Sicily, known for their crispy, fried pastry shells filled with a sweet, creamy filling. These Mini Cannoli Cups capture all the deliciousness of classic cannoli but in a more manageable, bite-sized form.
The origin of cannoli dates back to the 9th century when Sicily was under Arab rule. Cannoli were originally made to celebrate the Carnevale season, a time of indulgence before Lent. Over the centuries, this dessert has evolved, and today, variations of cannoli can be found all over the world.
The beauty of Mini Cannoli Cups is that they offer a modern twist on this age-old treat, making them perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a delightful ending to a meal.
They are made with a simplified approach, using wonton wrappers or phyllo dough to create the cups, which are then filled with a creamy ricotta filling.
This recipe is not only easy to make but also customizable, allowing for variations such as adding chocolate chips, pistachios, or zesting with citrus for an extra burst of flavor. For more about the history of cannoli, visit Italy Magazine.
Ingredients for Mini Cannoli Cups
- 12 wonton wrappers or phyllo dough squares
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, drained
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions for Making Mini Cannoli Cups
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
- Press wonton wrappers or phyllo dough squares gently into each muffin cup to form small cups.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove the cups from the oven and let them cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips and orange zest into the ricotta mixture.
- Once the cups are cool, fill each cup with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Garnish the filled cups with chopped pistachios.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Mini Cannoli Cups contains approximately 150 calories, 8 grams of fat, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of protein. Ricotta cheese, the primary ingredient, is a good source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.
The use of wonton wrappers reduces the fat content compared to traditional fried shells, making this dessert a slightly healthier option. The incorporation of mini chocolate chips adds a touch of sweetness and antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health.
Pistachios, used for garnish, provide healthy fats and additional fiber, supporting digestive health. For more detailed nutritional information, you can visit Nutrition Data.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Mini Cannoli Cups
Mini Cannoli Cups pair delightfully with a variety of beverages. A sweet dessert wine like Moscato d'Asti complements the creamy filling and highlights the sweet notes of the chocolate and orange zest.
Alternatively, for those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a robust espresso or cappuccino can enhance the rich flavors of the ricotta filling and provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.
If serving at a party or gathering, consider offering a selection of coffees and teas alongside these delightful treats, catering to a range of preferences among your guests.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To ensure your Mini Cannoli Cups retain their crispness, make sure the wonton wrappers or phyllo dough squares are pressed firmly into the mini muffin tin to avoid air bubbles. If you prefer a smoother texture in the filling, consider passing the ricotta cheese through a sieve before mixing.
This extra step will give your filling a creamier consistency. For variations, you can add a splash of almond extract for a nutty flavor or incorporate finely chopped dried fruits such as cherries or cranberries for added texture and sweetness.
If you want to experiment further, consider drizzling a light layer of melted chocolate inside the cups before adding the filling. This not only adds flavor but also creates a moisture barrier to help maintain the crispness of the cups.
Adjust the sweetness of the filling to your preference by adding more or less powdered sugar. Always taste test before filling the cups to ensure the flavor balance is to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
These Mini Cannoli Cups are best served as soon as they are prepared to enjoy the crispness of the shell and the creaminess of the filling. They are perfect as a finger food dessert at parties, allowing guests to enjoy them without the need for utensils.
Arrange them on a decorative platter or tiered dessert stand to create an appealing display. For a more formal setting, consider serving them on individual dessert plates with a dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
To enhance the visual appeal, you can add a slice of orange or a sprig of mint alongside each cup. This not only adds color but also hints at the flavors within the dessert.
If you are planning to make them ahead of time, store the filling separately and fill the cups just before serving to ensure they remain crisp. The combination of textures and flavors makes these mini desserts an exciting and memorable offering at any event.
Mini Cannoli Cups Health Benefits
While Mini Cannoli Cups are a dessert treat, they can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. The use of ricotta cheese provides a good source of protein and calcium, contributing to bone and muscle health.
The chocolate chips and orange zest not only add flavor but also provide antioxidants, which are known to help fight free radicals in the body. Pistachios, used for garnish, are a source of healthy fats and can help in reducing cholesterol levels and promoting heart health.
By choosing to bake the wonton wrappers instead of frying, the overall fat content of the dessert is reduced, making it a more heart-friendly option compared to traditional cannoli.
However, due to the sugar content, it is best to enjoy these treats in moderation, especially for those monitoring their sugar intake.
FAQs About Mini Cannoli Cups
Can I make Mini Cannoli Cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Bake the wonton cups and store them in an airtight container. Prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator. Fill the cups just before serving to ensure they remain crisp.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese for a richer flavor or cottage cheese for a lighter option. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid for the best consistency.
How do I keep the cups from getting soggy?
To prevent the cups from getting soggy, fill them just before serving. You can also create a moisture barrier by adding a thin layer of melted chocolate inside the cup before adding the filling.
Mini Cannoli Cups are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, offering the perfect balance of creamy filling and crispy shell. They are easy to make, customizable, and suitable for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party or simply want to enjoy a special treat, these mini desserts are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With options to adapt the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, Mini Cannoli Cups are a versatile addition to any dessert repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures, and feel free to experiment with variations to make this recipe your own.