Cannoli Shell RecipeAuthentic Italian Cannoli Shell Recipe: The Perfect Base for Delicious Cannoli Filling
Guide or Summary:IngredientsInstructionsCannoli, those crispy, golden shells filled to the brim with creamy, decadent fillings, are a quintessential Italian……
Guide or Summary:
Cannoli, those crispy, golden shells filled to the brim with creamy, decadent fillings, are a quintessential Italian treat. Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack, a celebratory dessert, or even a festive delicacy, cannoli are a beloved Italian classic that can be enjoyed all year round. But what makes a great cannoli? It all starts with the perfect cannoli shell. This detailed guide will walk you through the authentic Italian cannoli shell recipe, ensuring that your cannoli shells turn out perfectly crisp, golden, and delectable.
Ingredients
To make authentic Italian cannoli shells, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar (or lemon juice)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Dough**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the softened butter, egg yolk, and vinegar. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
2. **Rest the Dough**: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the dough to relax and become easier to work with.
3. **Roll Out the Dough**: Once the dough has rested, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece out on a lightly floured surface until it's about 1/4 inch thick and 6 inches in diameter. Make sure the edges are even and the center is slightly thicker.
4. **Shape the Cannoli Shells**: Place the rolled-out dough onto a lightly oiled baking sheet. Using a cannoli mold (or a wine bottle cap), press down into the center of each dough circle to create a hollow center. If you don't have a cannoli mold, you can use a round cookie cutter and a small glass to create the hollow center.
5. **Fry the Cannoli Shells**: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the cannoli shells into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried shells to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. **Cool and Dust**: Once the cannoli shells have cooled slightly, dust them lightly with powdered sugar. You can store the shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
With this authentic Italian cannoli shell recipe, you're well on your way to making delicious cannoli that will impress your family and friends. The key to perfect cannoli shells lies in the dough's consistency and the frying technique. Take your time with each step, and you'll be rewarded with beautifully crisp, golden cannoli shells that are the perfect foundation for any cannoli filling. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a cannoli enthusiast, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Buon appetito!