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Mini Cannoli Cups Recipe

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4.1 from 82 reviews

These Mini Cannoli Cups put a delightful twist on traditional cannoli, using refrigerated pie crusts as a simple and quick shell alternative. Filled with a sweet, creamy ricotta mixture blended with powdered sugar, vanilla, and mini chocolate chips, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or an elegant dessert. Optional garnishes like orange zest, cinnamon, and chopped nuts add extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Shells

  • 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or phyllo dough or wonton wrappers)

Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, drained
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

Optional Garnishes

  • Orange zest
  • Cinnamon
  • Chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a muffin tin, press each pie crust circle or wonton wrapper gently into the individual cups to form little shells.
  2. Bake the shells: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the shells are golden brown and crisp. Remove and let them cool completely before filling.
  3. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, keeping them evenly distributed.
  4. Fill the cups: Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cooled shell with the ricotta mixture. Avoid overfilling to prevent spilling.
  5. Add garnishes: Sprinkle the filled cups with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Optionally, add a pinch of orange zest, cinnamon, or chopped nuts on top for added flavor and presentation.
  6. Serve: Arrange the mini cannoli cups on a serving platter and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.

Notes

  • Ensure the ricotta cheese is well-drained to prevent a runny filling.
  • You can substitute pie crusts with phyllo dough or wonton wrappers for varying textures.
  • For extra crispiness, bake the shells a little longer but watch carefully to avoid burning.
  • These mini cannoli cups are best enjoyed within 24 hours for freshness.
  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container.