Need to satisfy a cannoli craving? Don’t have time to make the traditional shells? These Cannoli Bites are the sweet solution to satisfy your desire for this Sicilian treat. The filling is my maternal Sicilian grandmother’s blue-ribbon recipe. The amaretti crust, although different than the cannoli pastry, adds the crisp texture you’d get in a cannolo (singular) shell. This is a special sweet to have on hand when friends pop over for a visit (or a very nice treat just for you, you’re worth it!). Fill as needed, serve with cappuccino, espresso or your favorite coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
- 1 recipe Cannoli Cream
- 2 cups amaretti cookies
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup pistachio nuts, chopped
Crush the amaretti to make very fine crumbs, either with a rolling pin or in a food processor.
Mix in the melted butter until the crumbs stick together. (Similar to making a graham cracker crust). This fills 24 mini-muffin cups. This crust is also used for Sicilian S’mores.
Line the muffin tins with muffin (cupcake) papers.
Divide the crumb mixture evenly into each cup. Start with a spoonful in each, going back to use all of the crumbs. Pack it down on the bottom (I use one of the paper liners). This may seem like a thick crust but you want a sturdy base.
Bake in a 350* oven for 15 minutes. Let cool for 30 minutes.
When ready to serve, carefully remove the papers and fill with Cannoli Cream, top with pistachios.
Don’t be dainty, these go down in one bite. Yum!
