Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Skip the deep fryer; these cups are baked to perfection using pre-made wonton wrappers or phyllo shells.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Their mini size makes them ideal for serving at gatherings or events.
- Classic Flavor, Modern Presentation: You get all the deliciousness of cannoli in an easy-to-hold, mess-free form.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, candied fruit, or nuts for a personalized touch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Wonton wrappers or phyllo shells
- Ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk)
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- Optional garnishes: powdered sugar, chopped pistachios, or orange zest
Directions
- Prepare the Shells: Preheat your oven and lightly grease a mini muffin tin. Press wonton wrappers or phyllo shells into the tin to form cup shapes. Bake until golden and crisp. Let cool completely.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.
- Assemble the Cups: Spoon or pipe the filling into the cooled pastry shells.
- Garnish and Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and top with optional garnishes like pistachios or orange zest. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 24 mini cups.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Fruit-Filled: Mix in chopped strawberries, cherries, or blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Nutty Delight: Add crushed pistachios or almonds to the filling or as a garnish.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use cocoa powder in the filling or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the wonton wrappers with gluten-free pastry options.
- Citrus Kick: Add orange or lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store assembled mini cannoli cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the crispiest texture, store the shells and filling separately and assemble just before serving.
- Reheating: These cups are best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.
FAQs
1. Can I use mascarpone instead of ricotta?
Yes, mascarpone can be used as a substitute for a creamier filling.
2. How do I prevent soggy shells?
Assemble the cups just before serving, or coat the inside of the shells with a thin layer of melted chocolate to create a moisture barrier.
3. Can I freeze mini cannoli cups?
You can freeze the shells separately, but the filling is best made fresh. Freezing the filling may cause it to become watery.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the filling and shells separately up to a day in advance. Assemble them just before serving for the best texture.
5. What can I use instead of wonton wrappers?
Pre-made phyllo shells or puff pastry sheets cut into small circles work well as substitutes.
6. Can I make the filling less sweet?
Adjust the powdered sugar to your taste or use a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar option.
7. Are there any dairy-free options?
Use a dairy-free ricotta alternative and dairy-free chocolate chips for a lactose-free version.
8. How do I pipe the filling neatly?
Use a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip for a clean and professional look.
9. Can I add spices to the filling?
Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
10. What other toppings work well?
Try drizzling with honey, adding a maraschino cherry, or sprinkling with coconut flakes.
Conclusion
Mini Cannoli Cups are a delightful and easy way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Italian dessert. Whether for a special occasion or a casual snack, these little treats are sure to impress your family and friends. With their crisp shells and creamy filling, they’re a winning combination that’s hard to resist. Try them today and experience the joy of homemade cannoli in miniature form!
Mini Cannoli Cups
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mini Cannoli Cups are a quick and delightful take on the traditional Italian dessert. These bite-sized treats feature crispy pastry shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, making them perfect for parties, holidays, or indulgent snacking. With all the authentic flavors and no deep-frying, they’re an easy crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Wonton wrappers or phyllo shells
- Ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk)
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- Optional garnishes: powdered sugar, chopped pistachios, or orange zest
Instructions
- Prepare the Shells: Preheat oven and grease a mini muffin tin. Shape wonton wrappers or phyllo shells into cups in the tin. Bake until golden and crisp, then let cool.
- Make the Filling: Combine ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Beat until creamy, then fold in chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.
- Assemble the Cups: Spoon or pipe the filling into cooled shells.
- Garnish: Top with powdered sugar, pistachios, or orange zest. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready.
Notes
- Assemble just before serving to avoid soggy shells.
- To prevent moisture, coat the shells’ interior with a thin layer of melted chocolate before filling.
- For variations, add fruit, nuts, or citrus zest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
