One of the most traditional Italian desserts, typical of the Sicilian region, cannolis are especially prepared during carnival season. These delightful treats are surprisingly simple to make. Originally, they were made by hand, with the dough rolled around a cane before frying—hence their name, 'cannoli,' which means 'little cane' in...

Ingredients
Dough
- flour2cups
- egg1
- egg white1
- salt1/2tsp
- sugar2tbsp
- butter2tbsp
- white wine1/4cup
Filling
- ricotta cheese500g
- sugar250g
- candied orange peel70g
- ground cinnamon1tsp
For frying
- neutral oil
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
230.8kcal (11.54%)
Protein
5.2g (10.34%)
Carbs
30.4g (11.06%)
Sugars
22.9g (45.84%)
Healthy Fat
3.4g
Unhealthy Fat
5.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Cannolis
Dough
- Step 1
In a bowl, combine all the dough ingredients and mix until you achieve a smooth, homogeneous dough.
- Step 2
Roll out the dough using a rolling pin until you have a very thin sheet.
- Step 3
Cut out circles approximately 8 cm in diameter and shape them into diamonds.
- Step 4
Take each oval-shaped piece of dough and wrap it around a metal tube, pressing gently to seal the edges so they stick together. Do not remove the dough from the metal tube.
- Step 5
Heat neutral oil in a saucepan and fry the cannolis until they are lightly golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Step 6
Carefully remove the metal tube from the fried dough.
Filling
- Step 1
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the sugar. Add the finely chopped candied orange peel and finally, the ground cinnamon. Mix well.
Presentation
- Step 1
Fill the cannolis with the ricotta cream mixture.
- Step 2
Dust the filled cannolis with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
230.8kcal (11.54%)
Protein
5.2g (10.34%)
Carbs
30.4g (11.06%)
Sugars
22.9g (45.84%)
Healthy Fat
3.4g
Unhealthy Fat
5.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Ensure the dough is rolled out very thin to achieve the perfect crispy texture.
Use a piping bag to fill the cannolis neatly and evenly.
Fry the cannolis in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.
For added flavor, you can dip the ends of the filled cannolis in melted chocolate or sprinkle with chopped pistachios.
FAQS
Can I bake the cannoli shells instead of frying them?
Traditional cannolis are fried for their signature crispy texture, but you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) until golden as a lighter alternative.
How do I store leftover cannolis?
Store the shells and filling separately in airtight containers. Assemble them just before serving to keep the shells crispy.
Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
Ricotta is traditional, but you can use mascarpone or a mix of cream cheese and ricotta for a creamier filling.
What can I use if I don’t have metal tubes for shaping the shells?
You can use wooden dowels or even aluminum foil rolled into a tube shape as a substitute.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap.
Loading reviews...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia