There’s nothing quite like the delight of biting into a sweet, creamy cannoli, but what if I told you that you could experience that joy in a delightful little cup? That’s exactly what these Mini Cannoli Cups are all about! Inspired by a casual afternoon with friends, where laughter filled the kitchen alongside the tantalizing aroma of baked pastry, I knew I had stumbled on something special.
This recipe comes together in no time, perfect for those who crave homemade sweetness without the fuss. Using simple ingredients like ricotta cheese and a hint of citrus zest, these cups offer a creamy filling packed with flavor, all nestled within a golden, cinnamon-sugar crust. Whether it’s a cheerful gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a way to brighten up a weeknight, these mini treats are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delightful journey of flavor and fun!
Why choose these Mini Cannoli Cups?
Irresistible charm: These Mini Cannoli Cups add a charming twist to the traditional dessert, making them perfect for any occasion.
Quick and easy: You’ll love how effortlessly they come together, with just a bit of mixing and baking required.
Flavor explosion: The rich ricotta filling combined with citrus zest offers a refreshing burst of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Versatile treat: They can easily be customized with your favorite toppings, from chocolate chips to pistachios.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, these bite-sized desserts are sure to wow your guests and keep them talking long after the last crumb has been eaten.
For a stress-free yet impressive dessert option, these Mini Cannoli Cups are a must-try!
Mini Cannoli Cups Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up this delightful dessert!
For the Filling
• Whole-milk ricotta cheese – Use high-quality ricotta for a creamier texture in your Mini Cannoli Cups.
• Powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
• Granulated sugar – Balances out the flavors for a delightful bite.
• Finely grated orange or lemon zest – This zest brightens the filling with a refreshing citrus note.
• Vanilla extract – A must for an aromatic depth in the flavor profile.
For the Cups
• Refrigerated pie crusts – This brings simplicity; just soften as directed for easy handling.
• Turbinado sugar – Sprinkling this on the crust gives a lovely crunch and appealing caramelization.
• Ground cinnamon – Enhances the aroma and adds warm spice to each bite.
For Toppings
• Miniature semisweet chocolate chips – These add a sweet, melty surprise that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Finely chopped pistachios – They offer a nutty flavor and a pop of color to enhance your presentation.
• Additional powdered sugar – A delicate dusting elevates the looks of your Mini Cannoli Cups.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dessert that everyone will adore!
How to Make Mini Cannoli Cups
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Preheat the oven to 425°F. This temperature will help create a perfectly golden and crispy crust for your Mini Cannoli Cups.
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Flour a work surface and unroll the pie crusts. Sprinkle both with turbinado sugar and cinnamon. Use a rolling pin to gently press the sugar mixture into the dough for extra flavor.
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Cut the pastry rounds by using a 2½-inch round cookie/biscuit cutter. Press each round into ungreased mini muffin cups, re-rolling the dough as needed until you have about 48 circles.
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Bake the crusts for 10 minutes, until golden brown. Allow the cannoli cups to cool completely in the pans for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool thoroughly.
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Beat all filling ingredients in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy. This will create the fluffy filling you’ll pipe into the cups.
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Place the filling in a 1-gallon zip-top resealable bag and seal it. Refrigerate until you’re ready to fill those delightful cups.
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Pipe the filling into the cooled pastry cups just before serving. Snip one corner off the bag, and aim for about 1 tablespoon of filling per cup for a mouthwatering treat.
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Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios as toppings, and dust with powdered sugar to add a touch of sweetness and elegance.
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Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness you’ve created!
Optional: Garnish with a sprig of mint for an added touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Mini Cannoli Cups Variations
Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make these delightful treats your own!
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Chocolate Lovers: Substitute some of the ricotta with mascarpone cheese for an extra creamy, rich filling that chocolate fans will adore.
Indulge in the decadence of this twist, where heavenly chocolate flavor meets a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. -
Nut-Free: Replace pistachios with toasted sunflower seeds or omit the nuts entirely for a safe option for allergic guests.
These alternatives keep the crunch and flavor while ensuring that everyone can enjoy the sweet treat without worry. -
Lemon Zest: For a tangy twist, swap the orange zest with lemon zest for a bright, refreshing taste.
This lively change brings a burst of zest that cuts through the sweetness, adding a delightful contrast to each bite. -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts instead of traditional ones for a delicious gluten-free version without sacrificing texture.
Your gluten-sensitive friends will appreciate this thoughtful variation, ensuring these mini desserts can be enjoyed by all. -
Fruit-Filled: Fold in some finely chopped strawberries or blueberries into the filling for a fruity surprise.
This twist brightens the flavor and adds a pop of color, creating a visually stunning and deliciously fresh treat. -
Spiced Versions: Experiment with a dash of nutmeg or cardamom in the filling to add warmth and depth to the flavors.
It’s a fantastic way to infuse your Mini Cannoli Cups with aromatic spices, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions. -
Chili Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your filling for a sweet and spicy surprise that will thrill adventurous taste buds.
This unexpected kick in the classic dessert elevates your mini cups to a new level, creating a memorable experience for your guests.
Expert Tips for Mini Cannoli Cups
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Quality Ingredients: Always use high-quality whole-milk ricotta for a creamier filling in your Mini Cannoli Cups. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference!
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Check Consistency: Avoid overmixing the filling to maintain its light texture. Beat just until creamy for delightful results.
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Perfect Crusts: Make sure to press the sugar and cinnamon into the pie crust for an even flavor throughout. This step enhances the overall taste.
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Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling process for the cups; letting them cool completely ensures they’ll hold their shape when filled.
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Filling Tricks: Use a resealable bag for easy piping; snip the corner of the bag for precise filling, avoiding any messy spills.
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Topping Ideas: Get creative with toppings! Experiment with different nuts or candied citrus for a personalized twist on your Mini Cannoli Cups.
What to Serve with Mini Cannoli Cups?
Creating a memorable dessert experience is all about the perfect pairings that enhance the flavors and joy of your sweet creations.
- Espresso Martini: This coffee-infused cocktail complements the creamy richness of the cannoli cups, offering a delightful kick.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of juicy strawberries and blueberries adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, fluffy whipped cream enhances the dessert’s richness and adds a creamy texture everyone loves.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top deepens the flavor and brings an indulgent twist to your sweet treat.
- Pistachio Ice Cream: This creamy, nutty ice cream mirrors the pistachio topping, creating a harmonious flavor that delights the palate.
- Mint Tea: A refreshing mint tea brings a soothing finish to your dessert, cleansing the palate and inviting conversation.
- Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote pairs with the cannoli cups, adding a burst of tartness that elevates every bite.
- Moscato Wine: This sweet wine with its fruity notes complements the dessert’s rich flavors, making for a delightful pairing experience.
- Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies are perfect for dipping, offering a satisfying texture difference alongside the creamy cannoli cups.
- Gelato: Choose a classic flavor like vanilla or chocolate to create a comforting pairing that rounds out your dessert table beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Mini Cannoli Cups
Room Temperature: Keep baked Mini Cannoli Cups at room temperature for up to 2 days. Store them in an airtight container, ensuring they remain crisp.
Fridge: If filled with creamy filling, refrigerate the Mini Cannoli Cups for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Freezer: Unfilled pastry cups can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. Just thaw and fill when you’re ready to serve!
Reheating: For best results, reheat unfilled cups in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore crispness before adding filling.
Make Ahead Options
These Mini Cannoli Cups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time, you can prepare the pastry cups up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake and cool the crusts, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispiness. You can also make the filling ahead by mixing all the filling ingredients and transferring it to a zip-top resealable bag, refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just pipe the filling into the cooled pastry cups, sprinkle with toppings, and dust with powdered sugar for that delightful finishing touch. This approach allows you to enjoy spectacular, homemade desserts with minimal day-of effort!
Mini Cannoli Cups Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ricotta cheese for the filling?
Absolutely! Always opt for whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest texture in your Mini Cannoli Cups. Look for a brand that’s fresh and well-drained, as this will help you achieve the ideal consistency in your filling.
How should I store leftover Mini Cannoli Cups?
Very! If you’ve filled your Mini Cannoli Cups, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor. However, unfilled pastry cups can be stored at room temperature, in an airtight container, for up to 2 days to keep them nice and crisp.
Can I freeze Mini Cannoli Cups?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unfilled pastry cups for up to 1 month. Wrap each cup tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw and fill with the creamy filling.
How can I prevent the cups from becoming soggy after filling?
I often make sure they cool completely before filling! It’s essential to let your pastry cups cool thoroughly to maintain their crispiness. If you want to take extra precautions, you can bake them a few minutes longer or store the filling separately and fill them just before serving.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider with this recipe?
Very! This recipe is not gluten-free due to the pie crusts; however, if you’re accommodating gluten-free diets, try using gluten-free pastry or making your own gluten-free crust. Additionally, if anyone has a dairy allergy, you can substitute the ricotta with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream, ensuring it’s adequately drained for the best texture.
What’s the best way to prepare the filling if I’m short on time?
If time is tight, make a big batch of the filling ahead of time! Prepare it as directed and store it in a 1-gallon zip-top resealable bag in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for about 3 days and be ready to pipe into your cups just before serving, making it a quick and convenient option!
Sweet Mini Cannoli Cups That Elevate Your Dessert Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Flour a work surface and unroll the pie crusts. Sprinkle both with turbinado sugar and cinnamon, pressing the mixture into the dough.
- Cut the pastry rounds using a 2½-inch cookie cutter. Press each round into ungreased mini muffin cups.
- Bake the crusts for 10 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool for about 15 minutes.
- Beat all filling ingredients in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy.
- Place filling in a zip-top bag, seal, and refrigerate until ready to fill the cups.
- Pipe the filling into cooled pastry cups just before serving.
- Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios and dust with powdered sugar.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!