Why You’ll LOVE this Vegan Cannoli Recipe

To name a few…

• • Delightful flavor and texture – Vegan cannolis offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that can rival their traditional counterparts. The crispy, flaky shell perfectly complements the creamy, decadent filling, resulting in a truly satisfying culinary experience.
  • Customization options – Making vegan cannolis at home allows you to tailor them to your taste preferences. You can experiment with different fillings, such as fruit-infused creams or nut-based blends, and add personal touches like sprinkles, grated chocolate, or chopped nuts for an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal.
  • Freshness and quality control – When you make vegan cannolis at home, you have complete control over the freshness and quality of the ingredients used. You can select high-quality, organic ingredients and ensure that your cannolis are made with love and attention to detail.
  • Sharing and celebration – Vegan cannolis are perfect for sharing and celebrating special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or simply a cozy get-together with loved ones, these delectable treats can be a centerpiece of joy, bringing people together and creating memorable moments..

Vegan Cannoli Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients:

• • Cannoli shells (store-bought or homemade) – Cannoli shells are the crispy, tubular pastries that form the base of the dessert. You can find pre-made cannoli shells at many grocery stores, or you can make them from scratch using flour, sugar, salt, vegan butter or oil, and a bit of white wine or vinegar.
  • Sweetened soy ricotta (homemade or store-bought) – Sweetened soy ricotta is the creamy filling for the cannolis. You can make it at home by combining soy milk, lemon juice or vinegar to curdle it, sweetener of choice (such as powdered sugar or maple syrup), and optionally cornstarch or agar-agar to help thicken the ricotta. Alternatively, you can purchase pre-made vegan ricotta from stores that offer dairy-free alternatives.
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting – Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners’ sugar, is used to dust the cannoli shells before serving. It adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finishing touch.
  • Optional: Flavorings such as vanilla extract or citrus zest – To enhance the flavor of the sweetened soy ricotta, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or some freshly grated citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
•  Equipment:
  • Cannoli tube molds – Cannoli tube molds are cylindrical metal or stainless steel tubes that are used to shape the cannoli shells. They come in various sizes and can be reusable or disposable.
  • Mixing bowls – Mixing bowls are essential for combining the ingredients for both the cannoli shells and the sweetened soy ricotta filling.
  • Whisk or electric mixer – A whisk or electric mixer is used to mix and incorporate the ingredients for the sweetened soy ricotta, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner cut off – A piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off is necessary for filling the cannoli shells with the sweetened soy ricotta. It allows for precise and easy filling.
  • Cooling rack – A cooling rack is used to allow the cannoli shells to cool and crisp up after baking. It helps to prevent them from becoming soggy.
  • Optional: Pastry brush (for brushing oil or aquafaba on the shells) – If making homemade cannoli shells, a pastry brush can be used to lightly brush the shells with oil or aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) before baking. This helps them achieve a golden and crispy texture.
  • Optional: Sprinkles, grated chocolate, or chopped nuts for garnishing – These optional toppings can be used to add visual appeal and extra flavor to the cannolis. Sprinkle them on the ends of the filled cannoli shells to create a delightful finishing touch.

How to Make These Delicious Cannolis

You’ll have the most wonderful cannolis in no time!

• • Prepare the cannoli dough – If making homemade cannoli shells, combine flour, sugar, salt, vegan butter or oil, and a bit of white wine or vinegar in a mixing bowl. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Let it rest for about 30 minutes.
  • Roll out and shape the cannoli shells – On a floured surface, roll out the dough until it is thin. Cut out circles using a round cutter. Wrap each circle around a cannoli tube mold, sealing the edges with a bit of water or aquafaba. Repeat with the remaining dough and molds.
  • Fry the cannoli shells – Heat oil in a deep saucepan or fryer. Carefully place the wrapped cannoli tube molds into the hot oil and fry until the shells turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the shells from the oil and let them cool on a cooling rack.
  • Prepare the sweetened soy ricotta – In a mixing bowl, combine soy milk and lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle. Add sweetener of choice, such as powdered sugar or maple syrup, and any desired flavorings like vanilla extract or citrus zest. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Optionally, add cornstarch or agar-agar to help thicken the ricotta.
  • Fill the cannoli shells – Transfer the sweetened soy ricotta filling into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. Gently pipe the filling into one end of each cooled cannoli shell, filling them completely. You can start from both ends to ensure even filling.
  • Dust with powdered sugar and garnish – Dust the filled cannoli shells with powdered sugar. Optionally, garnish with sprinkles, grated chocolate, or chopped nuts for added flavor and visual appeal.
  • Serve and enjoy – Arrange the filled cannolis on a serving platter and serve them fresh. They are best enjoyed immediately to preserve the crispness of the shells and the creaminess of the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Cannolis!

Questions we’ve all asked ourselves!

• • Are cannoli shells typically vegan? Traditional cannoli shells usually contain eggs and sometimes butter. However, you can easily find or make vegan cannoli shells using plant-based ingredients such as vegan butter or oil. There are also many store-bought options available that are specifically labeled as vegan.

  • Can I use store-bought vegan ricotta for the filling? Yes, you can use store-bought vegan ricotta as a convenient option for the filling. Just make sure to check the ingredients to ensure it is dairy-free and suitable for your dietary needs. Alternatively, you can make your own sweetened soy ricotta at home using soy milk and other ingredients for a homemade touch.

  • How long do vegan cannoli shells stay crispy? Vegan cannoli shells are at their crispiest when freshly made. However, they can start to soften over time due to the moisture from the filling. It is recommended to fill the shells just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. If you need to prepare them in advance, you can store the filled cannolis in the refrigerator, but note that the shells may soften slightly.

  • Can I prepare the cannoli filling in advance? Yes, you can prepare the sweetened soy ricotta filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Keep it covered to prevent any absorption of odors from the fridge. However, it is best to fill the cannoli shells just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming soggy.

  • Can I freeze vegan cannolis? It is not recommended to freeze fully assembled cannolis, as the texture of both the shells and the filling may be affected. However, you can freeze the unfilled cannoli shells for up to a month. Once thawed, you can fill them with the sweetened soy ricotta just before serving to maintain their texture and taste.

  • Can I customize the flavor of the sweetened soy ricotta filling? Absolutely! You can personalize the flavor of the sweetened soy ricotta by adding different extracts such as vanilla, almond, or even a touch of citrus zest. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to suit your preferences.

  • Can I make mini cannolis instead of traditional-sized ones? Yes, you can make mini cannolis by using smaller tube molds or by cutting the dough into smaller circles. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through and golden brown.

  • Can I make gluten-free vegan cannoli shells? Yes, you can make gluten-free cannoli shells by using a gluten-free flour blend or specific gluten-free flours suitable for baking. Make sure to follow a gluten-free recipe or adapt a traditional recipe with appropriate substitutions.

Riann’s Cannoli Tips

Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

• • • Chill the cannoli dough. Before rolling out the cannoli dough, make sure it is well chilled. This helps the dough firm up and prevents it from becoming too sticky when working with it.

    • Roll the dough thinly. Roll out the cannoli dough as thin as possible while still being manageable. Thin dough results in crispy and delicate cannoli shells.

    • Seal the edges properly. When wrapping the cannoli dough around the molds, ensure that the edges are tightly sealed. Use a bit of water or aquafaba to moisten the edges and press them together firmly. This prevents the shells from opening during frying.

    • Monitor the frying temperature. Maintain a consistent frying temperature to achieve evenly golden-brown cannoli shells. Too hot of oil can result in quickly burned shells, while oil that’s not hot enough can make the shells greasy. Aim for a temperature around 350°F (175°C) and adjust accordingly as you fry.

    • Let the shells cool completely. Once the cannoli shells are fried, transfer them to a cooling rack and let them cool completely before filling. This ensures that they crisp up nicely and are ready to be filled without becoming soggy.

    • Pipe the filling just before serving. To keep the cannolis at their best, fill them with the sweetened soy ricotta just before serving. This helps maintain the texture and prevents the shells from absorbing moisture from the filling and becoming soft.

    • Dust with powdered sugar just before serving. Dust the filled cannolis with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a beautiful finishing touch and enhances the visual appeal of the dessert.

    • Experiment with flavors. Feel free to get creative with the sweetened soy ricotta filling. Add different extracts, such as vanilla, almond, or even a hint of cinnamon, to customize the flavor and make it your own.

    • Store leftovers properly. If you have leftover filled cannolis, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, note that the shells may lose some of their crispness over time. It’s best to consume them within a day or two for the best taste and texture.

    Enjoy the process of making these delicious vegan cannolis with homemade soy ricotta, and don’t be afraid to add your own personal touch and flavors along the way!

Serving Suggestions for Vegan Cannolis

Cannolis go well with anything but here are a few of our favorites.

• Fruit and Berry Medley – Serve the vegan cannolis alongside a vibrant fruit and berry medley. Arrange a variety of fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and sliced kiwi or mango on a platter. The natural sweetness and refreshing flavors of the fruits complement the richness of the cannoli filling.

• Chocolate Drizzle and Crushed Nuts – Create an indulgent dessert by drizzling the filled cannolis with melted vegan chocolate. Sprinkle some crushed nuts like pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts over the chocolate coating for added crunch and nuttiness. This combination adds a delightful contrast to the creamy ricotta filling.

• Coffee or Espresso Affogato – Serve vegan cannolis with a classic Italian twist by pairing them with a coffee or espresso affogato. Place a scoop of vegan vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream in a small cup or glass, then pour a shot of hot espresso or strong brewed coffee over it. Enjoy the cannoli with the affogato, allowing the flavors to mingle for a delightful coffee-infused treat.

• Lemon Zest and Fresh Mint – Add a zesty and refreshing touch to the vegan cannolis by garnishing them with freshly grated lemon zest and a sprig of fresh mint. The citrusy aroma and bright flavors of the lemon zest complement the sweet ricotta filling, while the mint adds a refreshing herbal note.

• Dessert Platter with Assorted Vegan Treats – Create a stunning dessert platter featuring an assortment of vegan treats alongside the cannolis. Include options like vegan chocolate truffles, coconut macaroons, almond biscotti, or mini fruit tarts. This variety of sweet treats provides a beautiful display and offers guests a range of delicious options to enjoy.

More Dairy-Free & Egg-Free Desserts

Can you say yum! 

• • Dairy-Free Peppermint Chocolate Mousse – Peppermint mousse parfaits are a delightful and indulgent dessert, combining the rich and creamy texture of chocolate mousse with the refreshing burst of peppermint, creating a truly wonderful and irresistible treat.
  • Ultimate Dairy-Free Cannolis – Vegan cannolis are a delightfully exquisite dessert, boasting a harmonious blend of crispy, flaky shells and lusciously creamy fillings that captivate the senses and offer a truly blissful indulgence.
  • Rustic Hand-Cut Sugar Cookies – These themed vegan sugar cookies are versatile and easy to make. They will please even the harshest baked goods critics!
  • Dairy-Free Greek Yogurt Dessert– This Vegan Greek Yogurt Dessert is fresh, healthy, and not too sweet. It’s a visually interesting and beautiful dessert and is one of my personal favorites!

If you decide to try any of these recipes, please let us know by leaving a comment below