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Italian bakeries have been serving up cannoli forever. The crispy shell and creamy sweet filling are nearly irresistible. Often times, they come with mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios or dipped in chocolate. No matter what topping you pick, they’re a MAJOR treat. Why is there wine in cannoli shells? Cannoli dough is usually made with white wine, which might seem a little odd. It includes wine for the same reason some pie crusts will include vinegar or vodka.
The alcohol tenderizes the pastry and helps make it extra flaky. Cannoli filling is always made with ricotta and usually powdered sugar to sweeten it. Filling will usually include mascarpone and whipped cream for a lighter filling. You’ll sometimes find orange zest or nutmeg in there for extra flavor. Getting the consistency of the cannoli filling is important. Place ricotta in a fine mesh strainer and set strainer over a larger bowl.
Let sit in refrigerator for at least an hour, preferably 2. How much liquid drains out will depend on the quality of your ricotta. The higher the quality, the less liquid. Even if just a little strains out, it will help in the long run.