Cannoli III

Recipe View 15 mins Crafting the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Incorporate the shortening using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Blend in the egg white. Gradually add the red wine, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together into a ball. Knead lightly for a minute or two until smooth. Cover and let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. (Prep time: 15 minutes, Rest time: 30 minutes)

Recipe View 20 mins Preparing the Shells: Heat the oil in a deep-fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). While the oil heats, divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch long ovals. Lightly brush a cannoli form/tube with oil. Wrap each oval around a cannoli tube lengthwise, overlapping the edges and sealing with a dab of egg white. (Prep time: 20 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Frying to Golden Perfection: Carefully fry the cannoli shells, 2 or 3 at a time, in the hot oil until golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Allow to cool slightly before carefully removing the tubes. (Cook time: 10-15 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins The Ricotta Dream: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese and confectioners' sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the vanilla extract, chocolate chips, and candied orange peel. Cover and chill the filling for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Drain off any excess liquid before filling. (Prep time: 10 minutes, Chill time: 30 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Assembly and Delight: Once the shells are completely cooled, fill each shell with the prepared ricotta filling, smoothing off the filling at the edges. Garnish with extra chocolate chips, candied orange peel, or a dusting of confectioners' sugar, if desired. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Best enjoyed within a few hours of filling to maintain the shell's crispness. (Assembly time: 10 minutes)