Are you dreaming of a taste of Sicily? Look no further! This creamy, dreamy cannoli filling recipe, inspired by the culinary queen Giada De Laurentiis herself, is the perfect way to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched Italian island. Forget those overly sweet, artificial-tasting fillings; this recipe delivers a luxuriously rich and authentic flavor that will leave you wanting more. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and will elevate your dessert game in minutes. This healthy-ish treat is a delightful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas or simply a wonderful way to indulge in a delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese, whole milk (the best quality you can find!)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon orange zest (for a zesty twist)
- Optional: chopped pistachios (for added crunch and visual appeal)
Instructions:
- Prep your Ricotta: Before you begin, take your ricotta cheese out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes prior to using. This allows it to come to room temperature, making it much easier to whip and resulting in a smoother, creamier texture. This simple step dramatically improves the overall quality of your cannoli filling.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, mini chocolate chips, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. If using, add the orange zest here as well.
- Mix it Up: Using a hand mixer or a whisk (for a bit more of a workout!), beat the mixture until it's completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated. Don't overmix, though; you just want a smooth and airy consistency.
- Add Crunch (Optional): Gently fold in the chopped pistachios (if using) at the end. This prevents them from getting pulverized during mixing.
- Chill and Enjoy: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up slightly. This chilling step also helps the filling hold its shape better once it’s in your cannoli shells.
Tips for Cannoli Success:
- Ricotta Matters: Using high-quality ricotta cheese is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Look for whole milk ricotta, and avoid those with added stabilizers or thickeners.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet filling, start with 1/4 cup and add more to taste.
- Shell Selection: Use store-bought cannoli shells or, if you're feeling ambitious, make your own! Just ensure your shells are crispy and ready to be filled.
Variations:
- Citrus Burst: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest instead of orange zest for a bright and tangy twist.
- Chocolate Decadence: Increase the chocolate chips to 1/2 cup for an even richer chocolate flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts along with, or instead of, the pistachios.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming about 2 tablespoons of filling) is:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
This recipe provides a delightful and easy way to enjoy the authentic taste of Italian cannoli. Perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight treat, this Giada-inspired cannoli filling will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy!