How to Make Cannoli Filling
Learn how to make cannoli with this easy and delicious recipe. This classic Italian dessert features crispy cannoli shells + creamy cannoli filling + crunchy mini chocolate chips. Perfect for Christmas or special occasions.
Cannoli are a delightful Italian dessert that combines the crispiness of the shell with the creaminess of the filling, enhanced by the crunch of mini chocolate chips.

Instructions
- 1
Place the ricotta cheese into a fine mesh strainer and place it in the fridge to drain for at least 6 hours and up to 24 hours.
- 2
In a large bowl combine the ricotta cheese, confectioners' sugar, salt, 1/4 cup of the mini chocolate chips, vanilla extract, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and citrus zest (if using). Mix well until just combined. Using a spatula, carefully scrape the mixture into pastry bag fitted with a 1/2 inch open tip. Use at once, or refrigerate until needed; filling can be made up to 24 hours in advance.
- 3
When ready to serve, pipe the filling into one end of cannoli shell, filling shell halfway, then pipe into other end. If you don't have a piping bag, you may spoon the filling into the shells. Repeat with remaining shells.
- 4
Place remaining mini chocolate chips on a small plate. Dip each end of the cannoli into the chocolate chips, then lightly dust with confectioner's sugar. Serve at once.
Ago's Notes
- Adjust salt to taste based on your canned goods.
Let the flavors dance—ricotta's creaminess, sugar's warmth, and cinnamon's whisper—each element a note in the harmony of a perfect cannoli, waiting to be shared with joy. This recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor or tradition.


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