The aroma of fresh pizzelle wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me to sun-soaked Italian alleyways, where every bite is a celebration. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling—a delightful fusion that takes the elegance of traditional Italian desserts and elevates it with a playful twist. These delicate pizzelle cookies not only offer a light texture but also act as the perfect vessel for creamy, sweet ricotta filling. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply seek a comforting homemade treat, this recipe promises both quick prep and a crowd-pleasing finish. Curious how these airy delights come together? Let’s dive into the delicious details and create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why Are Pizzelle Cannoli So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: These Pizzelle Cannoli are not just a dessert; they’re a symphony of creamy ricotta and aromatic pizzelle that will amaze your taste buds.

Quick to Prepare: Ready in no time, they’re perfect for busy evenings or spontaneous gatherings. Get that gourmet touch without hours in the kitchen!

Unique Twist: Combining the traditional pizzelle with a ricotta filling creates a delightful contrast that sets these apart from standard cannoli.

Versatile Option: Customize your filling with flavors like almond or lemon zest, or switch the ricotta for mascarpone to suit your palate!

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with this charming treat that sparks joy and nostalgia, reminiscent of Italian pastry shops. Perfectly served with a cup of coffee alongside your favorite Decadent Carrot Frosting or at your next get-together!

Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling Ingredients

For the Pizzelle Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the pizzelle cookies; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Large Eggs – Binds the batter and adds richness; using fresh eggs yields a better texture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pizzelle batter; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and flavor; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; for a different taste, consider using almond extract.
Anise Extract or Lemon Zest – Adds aromatic flavor; anise is traditional but lemon zest offers a refreshing twist.
Baking Powder – Helps in leavening the pizzelle; ensure it is fresh for best results.

For the Ricotta Filling

Ricotta Cheese – Main filling ingredient that contributes to creaminess; whole milk ricotta is preferred for richness.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the ricotta filling; can substitute with a sugar-free alternative.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the filling.
Mini Chocolate Chips – For added sweetness and delightful texture within the ricotta filling.

With these delightful ingredients ready, you’re all set to whip up your very own Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling and impress everyone with a taste of Italy in your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling

Step 1: Prepare Pizzelle Batter
Begin by whisking together 2 large eggs and ½ cup granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture becomes fluffy and light—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, gently mix in ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of anise extract, ensuring everything is well combined. Finally, fold in 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour along with 1 teaspoon of baking powder until you achieve a smooth batter.

Step 2: Preheat Pizzelle Maker
Now, preheat your pizzelle maker according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, ensuring it reaches a temperature that allows for golden-brown pizzelle. This typically takes about 5 minutes. Once heated, lightly grease the surface with a non-stick spray or a brush of melted butter to ensure the pizzelle release easily after cooking, making for perfect Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling.

Step 3: Cook Pizzelle
Using a tablespoon, drop about 1 tablespoon of batter onto the center of each section of your preheated pizzelle maker. Close the lid and cook for 30 to 60 seconds, checking for a light golden color. Once done, carefully remove the pizzelle and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling phase will ensure they achieve that delightful crispness essential for filling.

Step 4: Make Ricotta Filling
While your pizzelle are cooling, prepare the delicious ricotta filling. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of whole milk ricotta cheese, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ cup of mini chocolate chips. Use a spatula to mix until the filling is smooth and well-combined. This rich filling will beautifully contrast with the light pizzelle.

Step 5: Assemble Cannoli
Once your pizzelle have completely cooled, it’s time to fill them with that luscious ricotta filling. Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, or a spoon, carefully fill each pizzelle with the ricotta mixture. Be cautious not to overfill to maintain their crispiness. Each Pizzelle Cannoli should be generously filled, but the ends should still remain intact for a neat presentation.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
To add a delightful finishing touch, dust the filled Pizzelle Cannoli with powdered sugar. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, consider sprinkling chopped pistachios or garnishing with maraschino cherries. These simple additions will enhance the aesthetic appeal, making them perfect for serving at gatherings or as a special treat at home.

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Expert Tips for Pizzelle Cannoli

• Whip It Good: Ensure your egg and sugar mixture is whipped until extremely fluffy—this creates that perfect light texture for the pizzelle.

• Watch the Color: Monitor your pizzelle closely while cooking; even a few seconds too long can lead to over-browning.

• Shape While Warm: Roll the pizzelle into cones immediately after cooking while they’re still warm; they’re more malleable, perfect for crafting your cannoli.

• Fill with Care: Avoid overfilling the cannoli; a little goes a long way, ensuring the pizzelle stays pleasantly crisp.

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh eggs and quality ricotta for the best flavor and texture in your Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling.

What to Serve with Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling

Indulging in Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling is not just about savoring a treat; it’s about creating a full dining experience that enchants the senses.

Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of espresso perfectly balance the sweetness of the cannoli, creating a harmonious after-dinner delight.
Fresh Berries: Light, juicy berries like strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst, contrasting beautifully with the creamy filling and delicate pizzelle.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the dessert’s indulgence, offering a velvety texture that pairs exquisitely with the crispiness.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cannoli creates an elegant touch that irresistibly draws the eye and enhances the chocolate chip notes.
Candied Citrus Peel: Adding candied orange or lemon peel provides a zesty flavor that enlivens every bite, complementing the traditional Italian elements beautifully.
Vanilla Gelato: Creamy vanilla gelato acts as a luscious accompaniment, cooling down the palate while elevating the dessert to gourmet heights.
Pistachios: Chopped pistachios sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall experience of the filling and pizzelle texture.
Coffee Affogato: Pouring a shot of hot espresso over a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful fusion of hot and cold, perfect to serve alongside the cannoli.
Limoncello: A chilled shot of limoncello adds a refreshing citrus kick that cuts through the sweetness, leaving a pleasantly tart finish on the palate.

Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling Variations

Feel free to play around and personalize your Pizzelle Cannoli for a delightful twist that tantalizes your taste buds!

Mascarpone Swap: Substitute ricotta with mascarpone for a creamier, richer filling that melts in your mouth.
Coconut Delight: Use coconut cream instead of ricotta for a tropical twist! This variation is especially perfect for dairy-free diets, offering a luscious texture and subtle sweetness.
Nut Butter Bliss: Mix in your favorite nut butter, like almond or hazelnut, into the ricotta for a flavor-packed, nutty filling. It adds depth that pairs beautifully with the crisp pizzelle.
Spiced Symphony: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the ricotta filling for a warm, fragrant undertone. Just a pinch can elevate your dessert to another level.
Fruit Infusion: Fold in finely chopped fruits like strawberries or raspberries into the filling to create a fresh burst of flavor. This makes each bite even more delightful and colorful!
Dulce de Leche Drizzle: Drizzle some dulce de leche over the filled cannoli for an indulgent touch. The sweet, caramel-like flavor adds a wonderful contrast to the ricotta.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Swap in chocolate ricotta for an ultra-decadent twist – a must-try for chocolate enthusiasts! It’s rich and pairs perfectly with the pizzelle’s delicate flavor.
Zesty Kick: Add lemon or orange zest to the ricotta to give it an exhilarating zing. This lightens the dessert and enhances the overall flavor profile.

These variations ensure your Pizzelle Cannoli remains a delightful surprise every time. Serve them at your next gathering or as a cozy family treat alongside a cup of coffee or a slice of your favorite Balsamic Glazed Chicken for an unforgettable meal!

How to Store and Freeze Pizzelle Cannoli

Fridge: Store filled Pizzelle Cannoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps the ricotta filling fresh but may soften the pizzelle over time.

Freezer: Freeze pizzelle cookies separately in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing filled cannoli, as the texture can become soggy once thawed.

Reheating: To restore crispiness, toast frozen pizzelle in a toaster or warm them briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before filling.

Make-Ahead Tip: For best results, prepare the pizzelle a day in advance and fill them with ricotta just before serving to maintain optimal texture for your Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling.

Make Ahead Options

Make your cooking experience smoother by preparing your Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling ahead of time! You can make the pizzelle cookies up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. The ricotta filling can also be prepped and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just remember to give it a good stir before filling the pizzelle. When you’re ready to serve, fill the cooled pizzelle with the ricotta mixture and dust with powdered sugar for a delightful finish. This way, you’ll enjoy a homemade dessert without added stress on busy weeknights!

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Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for pizzelle?
For the best results, all-purpose flour is recommended as it provides the necessary structure for the pizzelle cookies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it’s suitable for baking.

How do I store leftover pizzelle cannoli?
Store any filled Pizzelle Cannoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that while the ricotta filling will remain fresh, the pizzelle may lose some crispness over time. To maintain that delightful crunch, it’s best to prepare the pizzelle ahead of time and fill them just before serving.

Can I freeze the pizzelle? If so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pizzelle cookies separately from the filling. Place cooled pizzelle in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply toast the frozen pizzelle in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before adding the ricotta filling.

What should I do if my pizzelle dough is too thick or too thin?
If your pizzelle dough is too thick, you can add a little bit of milk or water—start with a tablespoon—mixing until you reach the desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, try adding a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it thickens up. Remember, the right batter shouldn’t pour like a pancake batter but should hold its shape when placed on the pizzelle maker.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ricotta filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before using it to ensure it’s creamy and smooth. This way, you can speed up your assembly process when ready to fill your pizzelle and impress your guests!

Are pizzelle cannoli suitable for people with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance?
For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or a plant-based ricotta. Make sure all the other ingredients are also dairy-free (such as using non-dairy butter) to accommodate dietary needs effectively.