Name: Irresistible Pistachio Cannoli That'll Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (creates a perfect base for your cannoli shells.); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adds a touch of sweetness.); 0.5 teaspoon salt (enhances the overall taste.); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (gives a tender and rich texture.); 1 large egg (helps bind the dough.); 0.5 teaspoon white wine vinegar (strengthens the dough.); 2 tablespoons water (used to bring the dough together.); 1 cup ricotta cheese (forms the base of your filling.); 1 cup mascarpone cheese (adds extra creaminess.); 0.5 cup powdered sugar (sweetens the filling.); 0.75 cup finely chopped pistachios (creates an exquisite nutty flavor.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances richness.); 0.25 teaspoon almond extract (adds a delightful twist.); Oil (for frying (choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point).)

The first time I tasted a cannoli, it felt like I had been transported to a quaint Italian café, where the air was filled with the aroma of fresh pastries. Today, I’m excited to share my beloved Pistachio Cannoli recipe that will make you forget about store-bought sweets! Not only are these delightful treats a fun cooking project, but they also offer a unique twist with the creamy, nutty filling that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or elevate your dessert game for a gathering, these cannoli are the perfect answer. Are you ready to embark on a delicious journey and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen?

Why are Pistachio Cannoli So Special?

Exquisite Taste: These Pistachio Cannoli offer an unparalleled flavor experience, blending the creamy richness of ricotta and mascarpone with a hint of vanilla and almond that makes each bite memorable.

Simple Yet Impressive: Creating these cannoli at home is easier than you think. With basic ingredients and a few steps, you can achieve professional results that are sure to wow your guests.

Versatile Delight: Not a pistachio fan? Feel free to experiment! You can easily swap the filling for other nuts, like hazelnuts, or even chocolate for a delightful twist.

Perfect for Entertaining: Whether it's a dinner party or simply dessert for the family, these gorgeous treats are sure to become a highlight on any table.

Quick and Fun: With a total time of just over an hour, you can whip these up fairly quickly, making it a great weekend project. Plus, kids love to help with filling the shells!

Get ready to impress your friends and family with this scrumptious recipe. If you're curious about more Italian desserts, check out my guide on classic Italian desserts.

Pistachio Cannoli Ingredients

• Get ready for a delightful experience!

For the Cannoli Shells

2 cups all-purpose flour – all-purpose flour creates a perfect base for your cannoli shells.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar – sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
½ teaspoon salt – a pinch of salt enhances the overall taste of the dough.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter – butter gives the shells a tender and rich texture.
1 large egg – the egg helps bind the dough and adds richness.
½ teaspoon white wine vinegar – vinegar strengthens the dough and contributes to its flakiness.
2 tablespoons water – use just enough to bring the dough together perfectly.

For the Filling

1 cup ricotta cheese – creamy ricotta forms the base of your dreamy filling.
1 cup mascarpone cheese – mascarpone adds extra creaminess and depth to the flavor.
½ cup powdered sugar – powdered sugar sweetens the filling while keeping it smooth.
¾ cup finely chopped pistachios – these pistachios create an exquisite nutty flavor and texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – vanilla enhances the richness of the filling beautifully.
¼ teaspoon almond extract – almond extract adds a delightful twist to the flavor profile.

For Frying

Oil for frying – choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for deep frying.

Now you have all the essential ingredients to create these fabulous Pistachio Cannoli that everyone will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pistachio Cannoli

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cut in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, add 1 large egg, ½ teaspoon of white wine vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Knead the dough until smooth, which should take about 5 minutes, then form it into a ball.

Step 2: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling process is crucial, as it allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out later. While waiting, you can prepare the filling for your delicious Pistachio Cannoli, ensuring a smooth and efficient cooking process.

Step 3: Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mascarpone cheese, and ½ cup of powdered sugar until creamy and well combined. Stir in ¾ cup of finely chopped pistachios, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon of almond extract. This rich filling will be the star of your pistachio cannoli, so taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has chilled, divide it into manageable pieces, and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about ⅛ inch thick. Cut the dough into circles or rectangles, depending on your desired cannoli shape. Aim for a size that can comfortably wrap around your cannoli tubes, ensuring easy filling later.

Step 5: Shape the Cannoli Shells
Carefully wrap each dough piece around a cannoli tube, sealing the edges with a little water to prevent them from opening during frying. This step will give you the perfect shell to hold your delicious filling. Make sure the seal is secure to achieve perfectly shaped Pistachio Cannoli.

Step 6: Fry the Cannoli Shells
Heat oil in a deep skillet to around 350°F (175°C). Gently place the wrapped cannoli into the hot oil, frying them until they turn golden brown and crisp—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them, turning as needed for even coloring. Once done, use tongs to remove them and drain on paper towels.

Step 7: Fill the Cannoli
Allow the fried shells to cool completely before filling. Once cooled, use a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner snipped off to pipe the creamy filling into each cannoli shell. Fill generously to ensure every bite of your Pistachio Cannoli is bursting with flavor!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Your delicious Pistachio Cannoli are now ready to impress! Serve immediately for that delightful crunch, or chill them in the refrigerator for a short time to enhance their flavors. These treats are sure to be a hit, inviting your loved ones to indulge in a taste of Italy!

Make Ahead Options

These Pistachio Cannoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow Steps 1 and 2 (mixing and chilling the dough), then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just give it a gentle stir before using. When you’re ready to serve, roll out and fry the cannoli shells as instructed, then fill them with your prepped filling for a delightful treat that's just as delicious as freshly made. Enjoy the convenience of these make-ahead options on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pistachio Cannoli

Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is smooth and pliable. If it's too sticky, add a bit more flour; if too dry, a teaspoon of water can help.
Chilling is Key: Don't skip the chilling step! This relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out and shape for your Pistachio Cannoli.
Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C); frying at too low a temperature can make the shells greasy, while too high can burn them.
Sealing the Shells: Make sure to seal the edges of the dough with water; this prevents leaks during frying and ensures a perfect cannoli shape.
Cooling Before Filling: Allow the fried shells to cool completely before you fill them—this keeps the filling from melting and ensures every bite has that delightful crunchy shell.
Fill Just Before Serving: For the best texture, fill your Pistachio Cannoli just before serving. This keeps the shells crisp and makes for a perfect dessert experience!

What to Serve with Pistachio Cannoli

Imagine the joy of a heartfelt gathering, where bursting flavors and lush textures dance together on your plate, creating an unforgettable experience.

Rich Espresso: A shot of bold espresso beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cannoli, providing a perfect finishing touch to this delightful dessert.
Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing and tart element that cuts through the creaminess of the filling.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cannoli creates an indulgent treat, adding another layer of richness to the delicious pistachio flavors.
Pistachio Ice Cream: This creamy companion enhances the nutty notes in the cannoli while providing a luscious coolness against the warm pastry.
Moscato Wine: Effervescent and sweet, Moscato pairs perfectly with these decadent cannoli, making each bite a little celebration.
Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses balances the sweetness, inviting flavors that enhance the taste of the pistachio cannoli.

As you delight in these pairing ideas, let your imagination run wild, allowing you to create a beautiful table that’s perfect for sharing love and laughter!

Pistachio Cannoli Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make these delightful cannoli your own with these simple twists and substitutions!

Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter and sunflower seeds in the filling for a nut-free option that still brings the creaminess.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the ricotta and mascarpone with coconut cream and silken tofu for a dairy-free creamy filling that's equally delightful.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the filling for a sweet, chocolatey surprise that pairs beautifully with pistachios.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne to the filling for a surprising kick that elevates the taste experience.
Extra Crunch: Mix in crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs with the pistachios for added texture and flavor in your filling.
Fruity Delight: Swap pistachios for finely chopped strawberries or raspberries in the filling, offering a fresh, fruity twist to your cannoli.
Lemon Zest: A teaspoon of lemon zest in the ricotta mixture adds a refreshing zest that beautifully balances the sweetness.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to cater to those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy these treats.

Elevate your Pistachio Cannoli with these variations and find your favorite way to enjoy this classic dessert!

How to Store and Freeze Pistachio Cannoli

Room Temperature: Store filled cannoli at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, the shells may become soggy due to the filling.

Fridge: If you need to keep filled pistachio cannoli, refrigerate them for up to 1 day in an airtight container. This will help maintain freshness for a short period.

Freezer: For uncooked dough, store in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before use.

Reheating: If you have leftover fried shells, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness before filling.

Pistachio Cannoli Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pistachios?
Absolutely! When selecting pistachios for your cannoli, look for nuts that are bright green with a firm texture, and avoid those with dark spots or an overly soft feel. Fresh pistachios will have a vibrant color and should smell nutty, not rancid. You can choose shelled pistachios for convenience or buy them in their shells and shell them yourself for a fresher taste!

What’s the best way to store leftover cannoli?
Very! If you have any filled cannoli left, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 day. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to fill the cannoli just before serving. If you've got fried shells without filling, you can keep them at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, they should be stored in a cool place to prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze the cannoli shells?
Definitely! To freeze uncooked cannoli shells, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen shells to an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag, and they can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to use them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then fry as usual for a freshly fried taste!

What should I do if my cannoli dough is too sticky?
No problem! If your cannoli dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as you knead it until you achieve a smooth, pliable consistency. Make sure not to add too much flour at once; a tablespoon at a time is a good practice. Allowing the dough to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes will also help it firm up for easier rolling.

Are these pistachio cannoli gluten-free?
The more the merrier! If you're looking for a gluten-free version of these pistachio cannoli, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the flour you use is specifically formulated for baking as it will provide the right structure for the shells without compromising texture.

Can pets eat pistachios?
Please be careful! While pistachios themselves aren’t toxic to dogs, it's important to note that the shells can pose a choking hazard or cause gastrointestinal blockages. It's best to keep your pistachio cannoli out of reach of pets and only share small quantities of unsalted, shelled nuts with them occasionally, if at all.