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Pistachio Cannoli

Pistachio Cannoli: Delightfully Crispy Italian Treats at Home

Homemade Pistachio Cannoli are crispy Italian treats filled with a creamy pistachio and mascarpone filling, perfect for dessert lovers.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Shell
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Whole wheat can be used for a healthier option, but it will change texture.
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar Can substitute with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed Cold butter ensures a light texture; margarine can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Marsala wine Substitute with dry white wine or a mix of white grape juice and vinegar.
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder Omit if a traditional white cannoli is desired.
  • 1 large egg white Flaxseed mixed with water can be used as a vegan substitute.
For the Filling
  • 16 oz mascarpone cheese, very cold Substituting with cream cheese will alter flavor and texture.
  • 1/3 cup pistachio paste, 100% pure Look for product without added sugars or oils.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted Coconut sugar can be used for a different sweetness profile.
  • 1/2 cup roasted pistachios, finely crushed for garnish Almonds can be used instead for a different nutty flavor.

Equipment

  • Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Piping bag
  • Rolling Pin
  • 4-inch round cutter

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pistachio Cannoli
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Rub in 3 tablespoons of cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually mix in ½ cup of Marsala wine until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until the dough is stiff. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 1 hour.
  2. Once the dough has rested, divide it into quarters for easier handling. Roll each piece out on a floured surface to about 1/16th inch thickness. Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut out circles, then stretch each circle into an oval to fit around your cannoli tubes. Ensure the edges are slightly thicker for better frying. Use an egg white to seal the edges as you wrap the dough around the tubes.
  3. Heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot. Carefully slide the cannoli tubes with the wrapped dough into the hot oil, frying for about 2 minutes until golden and crispy. Use tongs to turn them occasionally for even cooking. Once done, remove the shells and drain on paper towels, allowing them to cool before removing the tubes.
  4. While the shells cool, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, beat together 16 ounces of very cold mascarpone cheese and 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in ⅓ cup of pure pistachio paste, stirring until evenly distributed. If the mixture feels too soft, chill it for a short time to help it firm up.
  5. Once the cannoli shells are completely cooled, fill a piping bag with the pistachio cream filling. Carefully pipe the filling into each shell from both ends, ensuring they're well-filled. For a final touch, dip the open ends of the filled cannoli into finely crushed roasted pistachios, adding a delightful crunch while enhancing the pistachio flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cannoliCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Always fill the cannoli just before serving to keep the shell crispy. For the best flavor, use high-quality mascarpone and pure pistachio paste.

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