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When the sun dipped low and the kitchen filled with the intoxicating scent of sizzling bacon, I couldn’t shake the feeling that a tasty experiment awaited me. Inspired by the traditional Italian cannoli, I decided to introduce a twist to this beloved dessert: Bacon Cannoli. Imagine biting into a crisp shell, the salty crunch of bacon mingling perfectly with a rich, creamy ricotta filling. This dish will not only surprise your taste buds but also impress friends and family at any gathering.

As I crafted this sweet and savory fusion, I couldn’t help but think of the countless dinners where I craved something refreshingly different from the usual fare. This recipe does just that—it enlivens dessert and transforms the familiar into the extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or simply indulging your inner chef, these Bacon Cannoli are sure to elevate your culinary repertoire. Ready to break some traditional boundaries? Let’s get started!

Why will you crave Bacon Cannoli?

Unforgettable Flavor: The delightful contrast of savory bacon and sweet ricotta is pure magic.
Unique Twist: This recipe reimagines traditional cannoli, offering an exciting experience that will surprise your guests.
Easy to Make: With simple steps, anyone can whip up these mouth-watering treats, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the celebration.
Versatile Treat: Great for parties or a cozy night in, they add a creative touch to any gathering.
Crowd-Pleaser: Watch as your family and friends rave about this unexpected dessert, turning ordinary events into memorable occasions. Try these unique delights and see for yourself!

Bacon Cannoli Ingredients

For the Filling
• Ricotta Cheese – Provides a rich and creamy base that beautifully complements the salty bacon.
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the savory bacon; consider using honey for a natural alternative.

For the Bacon
• Thick-Cut Bacon – Ensure it’s crispy to provide a crunchy texture; this is the star that elevates the Bacon Cannoli!

For the Cannoli Shells
• Cannoli Shells – Acts as the delightful vessel for your filling; you can use store-bought or homemade shells for a personal touch.

Optional Toppings
• Extra Confectioners’ Sugar – Dust on top for an elegant finish; it adds a wonderful contrast to the savory flavors.
• Chocolate Drizzle – For a richer taste, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the finished cannoli.

Prepare to amaze your taste buds with these innovative Bacon Cannoli!

How to Make Bacon Cannoli

Cook Bacon: Fry thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside on paper towels to drain, ensuring it’s super crunchy for the best texture.
Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with confectioners’ sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adding a touch of honey if you prefer a healthier sweetener.
Assemble Cannoli: Grab a piping bag and fill the cannoli shells generously with the creamy ricotta mixture. Working quickly will help maintain their crispiness while you assemble.
Add Bacon: Crumble the crispy bacon and gently fold it into the ricotta filling. You can also sprinkle it on top for a delightful crunch in every bite.
Serve: Once filled, arrange the Bacon Cannoli on a beautiful platter. If desired, dust them with extra confectioners’ sugar to enhance their presentation before serving to your guests.

Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over the finished cannoli for an indulgent touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Bacon Cannoli are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save precious time! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance, mixing the ricotta with confectioners’ sugar and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can cook the bacon up to 24 hours ahead, keeping it crispy by storing it in a paper towel-lined container. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the cannoli shells with the prepped filling and add the crumbled bacon just before serving. This way, you’ll ensure that the shells remain delightfully crunchy, offering the best flavor experience without sacrificing quality!

How to Store and Freeze Bacon Cannoli

Room Temperature: Keep filled Bacon Cannoli at room temperature for up to 1 hour. After that, they should be consumed to maintain the ideal texture.

Fridge: Unfilled cannoli shells can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, filled cannoli are best eaten fresh, as the shells can become soggy.

Freezer: For unfilled cannoli, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap each shell individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating: If you need to reheat Bacon Cannoli after freezing, do so gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, then fill with ricotta before serving.

What to Serve with Bacon Cannoli?

To create a meal that truly tantalizes, consider what complements the harmonious sweet and savory flavors of these delightful treats.

Fresh Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the cannoli.
Spicy Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of spicy honey takes the flavors up a notch, enhancing both the savory and sweet elements to create an exciting bite.
Garlic Breadsticks: These crunchy, buttery breadsticks provide a satisfying texture contrast, serving as a wonderful prelude to the decadent cannoli.
Classic Italian Bruschetta: The fresh tomatoes and basil on toasted bread offer a bright, zesty flavor that will complement the richer bacon experience.
Zesty Tomato Soup: Creamy tomato soup delivers a comforting warmth, creating a fantastic pairing for a unique dessert that’s rooted in Italian tradition.
Chocolate Espresso Martini: This indulgent drink, rich in flavor and a hint of caffeine, makes for a perfect, sophisticated beverage to enjoy alongside your Bacon Cannoli.

Whether it’s a gathering with friends or a special dinner, these pairings will elevate your culinary adventure with Bacon Cannoli, making every bite unforgettable.

Expert Tips for Bacon Cannoli

Perfectly Cooked Bacon: Ensure your bacon is crispy to provide the right crunch. Under-cooked bacon can lead to a soggy texture in your Bacon Cannoli.
Smooth Filling: Blend ricotta and confectioners’ sugar well for a creamy texture. Lumps in the filling can disrupt the delightful experience of these sweet and savory treats.
Shell Handling: Fill cannoli shells just before serving to keep them crispy. If prepared in advance, the shells might become soggy.
Piping Technique: Use a piping bag for neatness, and be quick when filling the shells to prevent excess moisture from softening them.
Personal Touch: Experiment with flavored ricotta or different toppings, like chocolate drizzle, to make your Bacon Cannoli truly unique and to elevate their presentation.

Bacon Cannoli Variations

Inviting a dash of creativity, these variations allow you to explore exciting twists on your Bacon Cannoli!

Prosciutto Swap: Replace bacon with crispy prosciutto for a luxurious Italian touch that elevates the savory profile.
Lemon Ricotta: Infuse the filling with lemon zest for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens each bite.
Chocolate Shells: Use chocolate pastry shells instead for an indulgent dessert that marries sweet and savory beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes into the filling for a delightful heat that surprises the palate.
Maple Drizzle: Drizzle some maple syrup over filled cannoli for a sweet-and-savory combo that adds depth to the flavor.
Nutty Delight: Stir in crushed almonds or walnuts into the ricotta filling for extra texture and a nutty twist.
Herbed Filling: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or chives into the ricotta mix for unexpected aromatic nuances in each bite.
Sweet Spice: Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg along with confectioners’ sugar for a bit of warmth that complements the bacon perfectly.

Bacon Cannoli Recipe FAQs

What kind of bacon should I use for Bacon Cannoli?
Using thick-cut bacon is the way to go! It provides a crunchy texture and savory flavor that perfectly complements the creamy ricotta filling. Make sure to fry it until it’s crispy—this texture plays a vital role in the success of your Bacon Cannoli.

How should I store leftover Bacon Cannoli?
Filled Bacon Cannoli are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour at room temperature. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container. Unfilled shells can last up to 3 days in the fridge, but be careful not to fill them until just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Can I freeze unfilled cannoli shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze unfilled cannoli shells for up to 2 months. Wrap each shell in plastic wrap individually, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you want to crisp them up again, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes before filling.

What if my ricotta filling is too lumpy?
If your ricotta filling isn’t as smooth as you’d like, there’s a simple fix. Place the ricotta cheese in a food processor and blend until creamy before adding the confectioners’ sugar. Mixing thoroughly will eliminate lumps and ensure that every bite of your Bacon Cannoli is delightfully creamy.

Are there any dietary considerations for Bacon Cannoli?
This recipe contains dairy and pork, so be mindful if you or your guests have allergies to these ingredients. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with a dairy-free equivalent (like cashew cream) and use turkey bacon for a lighter option. It’s always good to have options!

How can I enhance the flavor of the ricotta filling?
You can elevate the flavor of your ricotta filling by adding vanilla extract, lemon zest, or even a spoonful of mascarpone cheese for a richer taste. Feel free to experiment until you find a combination that suits your palate and transforms your Bacon Cannoli into an unforgettable treat!