When it comes to delightful desserts, nothing quite compares to Cannoli Cups. These sweet, creamy treats promise an explosion of flavor, all wrapped in a crispy shell that’s easy to make and even easier to eat! Picture this: a rich, velvety filling of ricotta and mascarpone cheese peeking out from a perfectly baked cup, sprinkled with chocolate chips and dusted with powdered sugar. What’s not to love? Since discovering this easy-going recipe, I’ve been sharing it with family and friends—and let me tell you, there are never any leftovers!
The great thing about Cannoli Cups is their simplicity; they’re perfect for any occasion and can be made in a jiffy. Not only do they taste amazing, but they’re also fun to assemble! Plus, you’ll impress everyone at your next gathering when you serve these charming dessert cups, which are just a step away from the fantastic traditional cannoli. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into a treat that delivers both taste and wow factor!
What Are Cannoli Cups?
Cannoli Cups are essentially a mini version of traditional Italian cannoli—delicious pastry shells filled with a creamy ricotta filling. But wait, why the name “Cannoli”? It’s derived from the Latin word “canna,” which means “tube,” referring to the shape of the pastry. You could say that cannoli are basically the dessert equivalent of a cozy hug—sweet, comforting, and utterly satisfying. As the saying goes, “the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach,” so why not spread the love with these scrumptious treats? I promise you’ll want to whip up a batch of Cannoli Cups soon enough!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Cannoli Cups have a charming appeal that’s hard to resist! First off, the crispy and flaky pastry shell creates the perfect contrast to the creamy filling, making each bite a delightful experience. Second, making these at home can save you some money compared to purchasing gourmet desserts from bakeries, plus you’ll know exactly what goes into them. Lastly, the versatility of these cups is incredible! You can mix in your favorite toppings—like mini chocolate chips, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to jazz up the flavor.
If you’re a fan of other creamy desserts, you might want to check out our amazing Chocolate Mousse Cups as well! Both are equally delightful, but Cannoli Cups offer a unique fusion of textures that you won’t find in any other dessert. Now, let’s get those aprons on and see how you can make these delectable treats at home!
How to Make Cannoli Cups
Quick Overview
Making Cannoli Cups is impressively simple, and you’re going to love how quickly the process comes together! With a preparation time of around 20 minutes and a baking time of about 15 minutes, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready in no time. The standout element here is the creamy filling that can be customized to your liking, allowing you to add your personal touch. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients for Cannoli Cups
To whip up these delightful Cannoli Cups, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 package of pre-made pastry dough (or you can make your own)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese (well-drained)
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional toppings (chopped nuts or fresh fruit)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your pastry cups bake to a beautiful golden brown.
- Prepare the pastry dough: Roll out your pastry dough on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cutter, cut circles that are about 4 inches in diameter.
- Form the cups: Gently press each round of dough into the cups of a mini muffin tin, making sure to press the dough into the sides and bottom.
- Baking the shells: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool completely.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add chocolate chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips into the cheese mixture.
- Fill the cups: Once the pastry cups have cooled, scoop the creamy filling into each cup, filling them generously.
- Finish with flair: Finally, dust the tops with additional powdered sugar and add any extra toppings you desire.
- Serve: Enjoy your Cannoli Cups immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve to maintain their texture.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cannoli Cups
- Drain your ricotta: Make sure you drain the ricotta cheese well before mixing it into the filling to avoid a watery texture.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts or zest—like orange or lemon—for a zesty twist on the classic filling.
- Don’t skip the shells: While you can find pre-made shells in stores, making your own adds a delightful touch to the overall experience!
- Storage: If you have leftover filling, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just remember to fill your pastry cups just before serving for that fresh crunch.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your Cannoli Cups, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for about 2-3 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh, as the pastry can become soft over time. If you plan on making them ahead, consider baking the shells separately and filling them just before serving.
With all these delightful components, Cannoli Cups are bound to become your new favorite dessert! So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the fun of creating these sweet treats begin! Your loved ones will be raving about them, and you’ll bask in the glorious successes of your home baking adventures!
Cannoli Cups
Ingredients
For the pastry shells
- 1 package pre-made pastry dough Alternatively, you can make your own pastry dough.
For the filling
- 15 oz ricotta cheese Well-drained.
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar Plus extra for dusting.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- to taste optional toppings Chopped nuts or fresh fruit.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out your pastry dough on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cutter, cut circles that are about 4 inches in diameter.
- Gently press each round of dough into the cups of a mini muffin tin, making sure to press the dough into the sides and bottom.
Baking
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and cool completely.
Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips into the cheese mixture.
- Once the pastry cups have cooled, scoop the creamy filling into each cup, filling them generously.
Finishing Touches
- Dust the tops with additional powdered sugar and add any extra toppings you desire.
- Enjoy your Cannoli Cups immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
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