Mini Cannoli Cups

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress, you’ve come to the right place! These Mini Cannoli Cups are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. I love whipping these up for family gatherings or whenever I have friends over. They’re sweet, creamy, and the perfect bite-sized treat that everyone can enjoy.

What makes these Mini Cannoli Cups truly special is their versatility. You can make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your company instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Plus, they bring a touch of Italian charm to any occasion, from birthdays to casual get-togethers. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes! Perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cannoli! These mini versions are fun for kids and adults alike, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the cups and filling ahead of time. Just pipe them right before serving for fresh treats without the stress.
• Customizable: With different toppings and flavors, you can easily switch things up to suit your taste or occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these delightful Mini Cannoli Cups. You’ll find everything you need right here!

• 1 container whole-milk ricotta cheese (15 oz., drained)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon finely grated orange or lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 box refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on box (2 count)
• 3 tablespoons turbinado sugar (raw sugar)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips or finely chopped pistachios
• additional powdered sugar

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and toppings.

• Try Different Zests: Swap out orange or lemon zest for lime or even grapefruit zest for a unique flavor twist.
• Change Up the Filling: Add a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla for an entirely new taste experience.
• Top It Differently: Instead of chocolate chips or pistachios, try crushed berries or toasted coconut flakes for a fruity finish.
• Make It Chocolatey: Incorporate cocoa powder into the ricotta mixture for a rich chocolate version of these cannoli cups!

How to Make Mini Cannoli Cups

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This ensures that your pastry cups bake evenly and become nice and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry Cups

Lightly flour your work surface and unroll the pie crusts. Sprinkle each crust with turbinado sugar and cinnamon—this adds sweetness and warmth! Use a rolling pin to press those flavors into the dough gently. Cut out 2½-inch rounds with a cookie cutter, then press each round into ungreased mini muffin cups. You might need to re-roll some dough to make enough rounds—don’t worry; it’s all part of the fun!

Step 3: Bake Until Golden

Bake your pastry cups for about 10 minutes until they turn golden brown. Allow them to cool completely in the pans for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is key—you want those cups crisp enough to hold the filling without getting soggy!

Step 4: Make the Filling

While your pastry cups cool, it’s time for the filling! In a large mixing bowl, beat together all filling ingredients until creamy using an electric mixer on medium speed. Once it’s nice and smooth, transfer it into a resealable bag—this makes piping so much easier!

Step 5: Fill the Cups

Just before serving, remove your filling from the fridge. Snip off one corner of your bag and pipe about 1 tablespoon of filling into each cooled pastry cup. Top with mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios as desired; this adds that beautiful finishing touch!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Dust with powdered sugar right before serving for that extra charm! Your Mini Cannoli Cups are now ready to steal the show—enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Mini Cannoli Cups

These Mini Cannoli Cups are not only delicious but also fun to make! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Use chilled ingredients: Starting with cold ricotta helps achieve a creamy filling that holds its shape. The cooler temperature prevents the mixture from becoming too runny.
• Don’t skip the cooling: Allowing the pastry cups to cool completely in the pans before removing them ensures they retain their shape and crispness. This step is crucial for a delightful texture.
• Experiment with fillings: While the classic ricotta filling is delicious, feel free to get creative! Try adding different flavors like almond extract or incorporating fruit purees for a unique twist.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the pastry cups a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Fill them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crispy.
• Keep it tidy: Use a zip-top bag for piping the filling; it’s easier than using a spoon and gives you more control over portioning into each cup!

How to Serve Mini Cannoli Cups

Presenting your Mini Cannoli Cups can elevate your dessert experience even further! Here are some delightful serving suggestions to impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds on top of your filled cannoli cups for an added crunch and elegant look.
• Fresh berries: Add a couple of fresh raspberries or blueberries on the plate alongside your cannoli for a pop of color and freshness.
• Mint leaves: A small sprig of fresh mint not only enhances presentation but also adds a refreshing aroma.

Side Dishes

• Italian Panna Cotta: This creamy dessert is smooth and light, making it a perfect complement to the rich flavors of cannoli cups.
• Tiramisu: Another classic Italian dessert that balances coffee flavors with sweetness, offering a wonderful contrast to your cannoli.
• Fruit Salad: A chilled fruit salad with seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing side option.
• Espresso or Coffee: Pair these sweet treats with a strong cup of espresso or coffee. The bitterness beautifully offsets the sweetness of the cannoli!

Your guests will surely be delighted by how charmingly these Mini Cannoli Cups come together on any dessert table! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mini Cannoli Cups are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed later. Preparing them in advance not only saves time but also makes for a thoughtful treat for guests or family.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover cannoli cups in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Avoid filling the pastry cups until you’re ready to serve to maintain their crispness.

Freezing

• Prepare the pastry cups ahead of time and let them cool completely.
• Place cooled cups in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Freeze for up to 1 month. Fill them with the ricotta mixture after thawing.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm pastry cups, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the unfilled pastry cups on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Allow to cool slightly before filling with the ricotta mixture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delicious Mini Cannoli Cups:

Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese for Mini Cannoli Cups?

Yes, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s well-drained for the best texture.

How do I make Mini Cannoli Cups gluten-free?

To make these Mini Cannoli Cups gluten-free, substitute traditional pie crusts with gluten-free pie crusts available in stores or made from scratch using gluten-free flour blends.

Can I prepare the filling for Mini Cannoli Cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can whip up the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your cannoli cups.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Cannoli Cups are not just easy to make; they’re a delightful treat that will impress anyone who tries them! With their crispy shells and creamy filling, they embody all the joy of traditional cannoli in a fun, bite-sized format. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your creations and thoughts; happy baking!