Decadent chocolate-covered strawberry cannoli filled with creamy goodness.

Decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Filled Cannoli: A Sweet Symphony of Cream, Chocolate, and Summer Strawberries

why make this recipe

Decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Filled Cannoli combine two favorites: cannoli and strawberries. These treats are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise for your loved ones. The crispy, chocolate-dipped shells are filled with a creamy, fruity filling that will delight anyone who tries them. Plus, they are fun to make and bring a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

how to make Decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Filled Cannoli

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and diced
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) white wine or dry sherry (or milk as substitute)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 1/2 cups (375 g) whole milk ricotta cheese, drained
  • 1/3 cup (40 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped (about 6-8 medium berries)
  • 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for chocolate coating)

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add cold diced butter and work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs (about 5 minutes). Keeping the butter cold will help make the shells crispy.
  3. Stir in the egg yolk and slowly pour in the white wine or dry sherry, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky or dry, adjust with flour or wine.
  4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Roll the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thickness. Cut into 4-inch (10 cm) circles.
  6. Wrap each circle around a cannoli tube, sealing the edges with water and overlapping slightly. Make sure there are no gaps to prevent the filling from leaking.
  7. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan. Fry 2-3 shells at a time for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  8. In a bowl, beat the drained ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy.
  9. Fold in the chopped strawberries and mini chocolate chips (if using). Chill the filling for 30 minutes to firm it up.
  10. Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with vegetable oil in a double boiler or microwave until smooth and shiny, stirring often.
  11. Dip each end of the cooled cannoli shells into the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set. Work quickly before the chocolate hardens.
  12. Fill each shell with the strawberry ricotta filling using a piping bag or spoon just before serving to keep the shells crisp.

how to serve Decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Filled Cannoli

To serve these cannoli, place them on a pretty plate or platter. You can garnish them with extra strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They are best enjoyed fresh, right after filling, for the ultimate crunchy texture.

how to store Decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Filled Cannoli

If you have leftover cannoli, store the shells and filling separately. Keep the shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The filling can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Fill the shells just before serving to maintain their crispness.

tips to make Decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Filled Cannoli

  • Make sure the butter stays cold when mixing, as this helps achieve a flaky texture in the shells.
  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor in your filling.
  • Experiment with different chocolate types, like dark or white chocolate, for coating the shells.

variation

You can customize the filling by adding other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or by mixing in some nuts for extra crunch. Try different flavor extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, to give your filling a unique spin.

FAQs

  1. Can I make the cannoli shells in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the shells a day ahead. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

  2. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
    Mascarpone cheese can be used for a richer filling, or you can try cream cheese for a different taste.

  3. Can I freeze the filled cannoli?
    It is best to freeze the shells separately. After filling, cannoli are best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may affect their texture.

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