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Simple Mini Cannoli Cups
I whipped up these tiny treats when I was craving traditional cannoli flavor but wanted something easier for hosting friends. The mix of smooth ricotta filling inside flaky pie shells creates something truly special with each mouthful. They've become my favorite party dessert since they're incredibly fast to throw together yet still look stunning on any dessert spread.
Fast and Tasty
The best thing about these goodies is how they pack all that authentic cannoli goodness into cute little bites. I'm thrilled they only take minutes to put together but taste like they required serious kitchen time. For birthdays, holidays or just because - they always get people smiling and asking for more.
Ingredients List
- Pie Crust: Works as our speedy crunchy shells.
- Ricotta Cheese: Pick whole milk type for extra creaminess.
- Mascarpone Cheese: Gives that wonderful smoothness.
- Powdered Sugar: Brings just the right sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds that hint of lovely flavor.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Makes each bite extra special.
Baking Steps
- Mix the Filling
- Combine those dairy ingredients until perfectly smooth.
- Assemble
- Spoon that dreamy mixture into each cup and add your favorite toppings.
- Prepare the Pie Cups
- Push your cut circles gently into the mini muffin pan.
- Bake
- Wait for them to get nice and golden, then cool them down completely.
Handy Baking Advice
Don't skimp on cheese quality for your filling. Draining ricotta really pays off for a thicker texture. Try adding nuts or dried fruit toppings for extra style. They taste best when served right away while the shells stay nice and crisp.
Getting Ahead
You can fix the shells and whip up the filling a few days early if you keep them apart until you're ready to serve. Your filling will stay good in the fridge and once they're put together, they'll last around 3 to 4 days though the shells get a bit soft over time.
Personal Touches
I sometimes throw in some orange zest or cinnamon to change up the filling flavor. The creamy part tastes amazing on its own if you're cutting back on carbs. You can even use store-bought pastry shells when you're really rushed for time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why should I strain ricotta?
Straining keeps the filling smooth by removing extra water, so it's not too runny.
- → Can I prep these in advance?
You can prepare the filling and cups ahead, but don't fill the bites until you're ready to serve so they stay crunchy.
- → What if I don’t have a piping bag?
Grab a zip-top bag, snip a corner, and use it to pipe the filling, or just spoon it into the cups if that's easier.
- → Can these be frozen?
Freeze the empty cups, but avoid freezing filled bites since the filling might turn watery when thawed.
- → Why add mascarpone?
Mascarpone makes the filling richer and creamier, much closer to the traditional cannoli taste.