Get ready to transform the classic Italian dessert into something extraordinary with these Lemon Basil Cannoli. The bright zest of lemon paired with fresh basil adds a refreshing twist that makes these cannoli perfect for any season. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.
The filling starts with ricotta cheese, giving it a creamy texture that's essential for any good cannoli. Adding mascarpone cheese enhances the richness and smoothness. A touch of powdered sugar sweetens the filling without making it too heavy. The lemon zest introduces a zesty brightness, perfectly complemented by the aromatic fresh basil. A little vanilla extract rounds out the flavors, adding depth. Finally, heavy cream is whipped and folded in for a light, airy texture. For the crunchy texture and additional flavor, crushed pistachios and chocolate chips are the perfect finishing touches.
These cannoli pair beautifully with a crisp glass of Prosecco, enhancing the citrus notes. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a refreshing glass of iced green tea. To elevate the presentation, serve on a platter garnished with fresh basil leaves and lemon slices.
Start by combining your ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese in a medium-sized bowl. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Once you’ve achieved a good consistency, add in your powdered sugar, lemon zest, chopped basil, and vanilla extract. Stir well, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
In another bowl, pour in your heavy cream and whip it until soft peaks form. You can use an electric mixer to speed up the process. Once the cream is ready, gently fold it into your ricotta mixture. The goal here is to keep the mixture light, so be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
Now, it’s time to fill those cannoli shells! Load your mixture into a piping bag, which makes the task so much easier and cleaner. Carefully fill each shell, making sure the filling reaches both ends.
To finish, dip each end of the filled cannoli into a mix of crushed pistachios and chocolate chips. This not only adds texture but also gives a delightful flavor contrast with each bite.
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