A Sweet Sicilian Classic: Lemon Cannoli for the Holidays

Looking for a festive dessert that will wow your guests this Christmas or New Year’s Eve? Look no further than lemon cannoli—a zesty, elegant twist on the traditional Sicilian treat. Crispy shells filled with creamy, citrus-kissed ricotta are the perfect ending to any holiday meal.

This recipe makes a dozen cannoli and is easier than you think—just be prepared for these to disappear quickly!

Lemon Cannoli

Makes 12 cannoli

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons dry white wine
• Canola or peanut oil, for frying
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (drained, if needed)
• ½ cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of one lemon
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions:

1. Make the dough:
   In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg and white wine. Mix and knead gently until a smooth dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Shape the shells:
   Roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch circles. Wrap each circle around a metal cannoli tube, sealing the edge with a bit of water.
3. Fry to perfection:
   Heat oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F. Fry the cannoli shells in small batches for 1–2 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels and cool before removing from the molds.
4. Make the filling:
   Whisk ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Stir in chocolate chips if using. Chill for 15–30 minutes.
5. Fill and serve:
   Pipe the filling into each shell just before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and enjoy the compliments!

Tip: For best results, fill the cannoli shortly before serving to maintain their crisp texture. You can prepare the shells and filling ahead of time and keep them separate until ready to serve.

Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner or ringing in the New Year, these lemon cannoli add a refreshing, decadent touch to your dessert table. Buon appetito!