Mini Cannoli Bites are like a sweet embrace from your Italian grandmother—if she were a pastry chef who adored bite-sized treats. Imagine crispy, flaky shells filled with a luscious ricotta mixture, studded with chocolate chips, and dusted with powdered sugar. The aroma alone can make you weak in the knees, and trust me, you’ll want to devour these delightful morsels on any occasion. crispy veggie snacks sweet dessert treats Whether it’s a family gathering, holiday party, or just a Tuesday that needs brightening up, these mini Cannoli Bites will steal the show.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best way to fill mini cannoli bites?
- Can I make mini cannoli bites ahead of time?
- What can I substitute for ricotta cheese in the filling?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: You’re hosting friends for game night, and the atmosphere is buzzing with laughter. You bring out these mini Cannoli Bites, and suddenly you’re not just the host; you’re the culinary superhero of the evening. Everyone dives in, eyes wide with delight as they savor each delicious bite. It’s pure joy wrapped in pastry, and maybe a little bit of cannoli cream on your shirt. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These mini Cannoli Bites are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike
- Their creamy filling paired with crispy shells offers an irresistible flavor explosion in every bite
- Visually stunning and dainty, they add an elegant touch to any dessert table
- Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or simply indulging after a long day!
Baking these delicious treats brings back memories of my aunt’s kitchen filled with laughter and flour-covered countertops. no-bake dessert alternative When I first made them for my friends, their delighted reactions made it clear that I had found my dessert calling.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Mini Cannoli Shells: You can buy pre-made shells or whip up your own from scratch for added freshness.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for a rich and creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
- Powdered Sugar: This adds sweetness to the filling; sift it to avoid lumps before mixing. savory and sweet appetizers.
- Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for an aromatic depth that elevates the flavor profile.
- Chocolate Chips: Mini chocolate chips work best here, they’re cute and provide just the right amount of chocolatey goodness.
- Pistachios (optional): Chopped pistachios add a delightful crunch and vibrant color if you’re feeling fancy! For more inspiration, check out this Delightful Key Lime Pie recipe.
- Cinnamon (optional): A dash of cinnamon can enhance the flavor; use it sparingly to avoid overpowering.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Workspace: Before diving into this delicious adventure, gather all your ingredients and tools, mixing bowls, spatula, piping bag or plastic baggie will do.
Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add mini chocolate chips and mix gently until evenly distributed.
Pipe the Filling into Shells: Fill a piping bag or corner of a plastic bag with the filling mixture. Squeeze it into each mini cannoli shell until generously filled but not overflowing.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: Arrange filled cannoli bites on a platter. Before serving, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for that magical finishing touch.
Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle crushed pistachios or drizzle melted chocolate over your mini Cannoli Bites for an extra flair that impresses everyone!
Serve & Enjoy!: Serve immediately for maximum crispiness; otherwise store in an airtight container for later enjoyment while keeping them as fresh as possible.
These mini Cannoli Bites will be gone before you know it—trust me!
You Must Know
- Mini cannoli bites are a delightful treat that brings the classic Italian dessert to bite-sized perfection
- They boast a creamy filling and crispy shell, making them an irresistible addition to any gathering
- These bites are perfect for parties or just satisfying your sweet tooth!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the shells first; fry them while you whip up the filling for efficiency. This approach ensures everything is fresh and ready to serve together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize the filling by adding flavors like chocolate chips or pistachios. You might even try a hint of orange zest for a citrusy twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mini cannoli bites in an airtight container, keeping them in the fridge for up to two days. Do not fill them until ready to serve to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure perfect mini cannoli bites, use cold ingredients for the filling
- This helps maintain its structure and flavor
- When frying, keep oil temperature steady at around 350°F for even cooking
- Always let the shells cool before filling to prevent sogginess
The first time I made mini cannoli bites, my family devoured them within minutes! Their smiles made all the effort worthwhile, proving that good food truly brings people together.
FAQ
What is the best way to fill mini cannoli bites?
Use a piping bag for clean and easy filling without making a mess.
Can I make mini cannoli bites ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the shells in advance but fill them just before serving.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese in the filling?
Mascarpone cheese works well as a rich alternative for the filling.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Mini Cannoli Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Mini Cannoli Bites are the perfect sweet treat to brighten any occasion. These delectable morsels feature crispy, flaky shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture enriched with chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar. Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or simply indulging at home, these bite-sized delights combine traditional Italian flavors with the convenience of easy preparation. Everyone will be asking for your secret recipe after just one taste!
Ingredients
- 12 mini cannoli shells
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by gathering all ingredients and tools.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Fill a piping bag with the ricotta mixture and pipe into each mini cannoli shell until filled but not overflowing.
- Dust filled cannoli bites with powdered sugar and garnish with optional toppings like crushed pistachios or melted chocolate.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness or store in an airtight container until ready to enjoy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite (30g)
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
