Pumpkin Cannoli is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the rich, creamy filling of traditional cannoli with the warm, spicy flavors of pumpkin. Perfect for brunch, these pumpkin cannoli offer a unique seasonal touch that is sure to impress your guests. This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, making it an ideal choice for both experienced bakers and those new to dessert-making. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply craving something sweet, these pumpkin cannoli will add a festive flair to your table.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cannoli
For the Cannoli Shells:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon white wine or apple cider vinegar
- 1 egg white, beaten (for sealing)
For the Pumpkin Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Pumpkin Cannoli
Preparing the Cannoli Shells
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the beaten egg and white wine or vinegar. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead and Chill: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and Cut: After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Shape the Shells: Wrap each dough circle around a cannoli form or a sturdy metal tube, overlapping the edges slightly. Seal the edges with the beaten egg white.
- Fry the Shells: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the cannoli shells in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Cool and Remove Forms: Let the shells cool completely before carefully removing the forms.
Making the Pumpkin Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, canned pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Chill the Filling: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pumpkin filling for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Assembling the Cannoli
- Fill the Shells: Using a pastry bag or a spoon, carefully fill each cannoli shell with the pumpkin filling, making sure to fill both ends.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the ends of the filled cannoli with mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve: Arrange the finished cannoli on a serving platter and enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour serves as the base for the cannoli shells. It provides structure and texture to the dough, creating a crisp and sturdy shell that holds the creamy filling.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar is used in both the shell and filling to add sweetness. In the shell, it helps to balance the flavors and improve the browning during frying.
Canned Pumpkin Puree
Canned pumpkin puree adds a rich, earthy flavor to the filling and gives it a beautiful orange color. It’s also a key ingredient for adding moisture and a smooth texture to the pumpkin cannoli filling.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is used in the filling to create a creamy and slightly tangy base. It complements the pumpkin and spices perfectly, giving the cannoli its signature texture and flavor.
Ground Spices
Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt enhance the flavor of the pumpkin filling, giving it a warm, spiced taste that’s perfect for the fall season.
Mini Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Mini chocolate chips and chopped nuts are used for garnishing the cannoli. They add texture and extra flavor, making the cannoli not only more visually appealing but also more delicious.
Enjoy making these pumpkin cannoli and impress your guests with this delightful, seasonal treat!
