Topic summary

Cannoli

Cannoli

Cannoli are Sicilianpastries consisting of a tube-shaped shell of fried pastry dough, filled with a sweet and creamy filling containing ricotta cheese. Their size ranges from 9 to 20 centimetres (3+1⁄2 to 8 in). In mainland Italy, the food is commonly known as cannolo siciliano (lit.'Sicilian cannoli').

In culinary traditions across Sicily, regional variations in cannoli fillings reflect local preferences and ingredient availability. In Palermo, cannoli are decorated with candiedorange zest, adding a citrusy sweetness to the ricotta filling. In Catania, chopped pistachios are favored, adding a distinctive nutty flavor and texture. Ramacca is known for its purple artichokes, which also feature as filling in some cannoli recipes.