Easy Ramp & Ricotta Cannoli Recipe – Unique Dessert Twist

Have you ever thought about combining the earthy, garlicky flavor of wild ramps with the creamy decadence of ricotta cheese to create a one-of-a-kind dessert? If not, let me introduce you to Ramp & Ricotta Cannoli, a unique dessert twist that’s bound to surprise and delight your taste buds. This recipe takes the classic Italian cannoli and gives it a fun, savory-sweet upgrade with ramps—a wild onion-like green that’s beloved in springtime cooking.

This dish is perfect for adventurous foodies and anyone who loves experimenting with unexpected flavors. It’s an excellent way to showcase ramps during their fleeting season. Plus, the slightly savory note balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cannoli shell and powdered sugar. Trust me, this recipe will have your guests talking for days!

Recipe Story

Growing up, cannoli were always a special treat in my family. My grandmother would whip up batches of creamy ricotta-filled shells, and we’d enjoy them after big Sunday dinners. Fast forward to today, and I’ve taken that nostalgic dessert and added a modern twist with ramps—something that feels both familiar and completely new.

Ramps, often referred to as wild leeks, have a short growing season in the spring, making them a coveted ingredient for chefs and home cooks alike. Their bold, garlicky flavor pairs surprisingly well with creamy ricotta and a hint of sweetness, which inspired me to create this recipe. The result is a dessert that feels fresh yet rooted in tradition, perfect for spring gatherings or a fun weekend baking project.

This recipe has evolved through trial and error. Initially, I wasn’t sure how ramps would work in a dessert, but after experimenting with different ratios, I found the perfect blend of ricotta, ramps, and sweetness. It’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients and classic Italian desserts rolled into one!

Ingredient Discussion

Key Ingredients

• Ramps: These wild greens have a short season but pack a punch with their garlicky flavor. Look for fresh ramps at farmers’ markets or specialty stores during spring. If ramps aren’t available, substitute with green onions or chives.
• Ricotta Cheese: For the creamiest filling, opt for high-quality full-fat ricotta. If you want a lighter option, you can use part-skim ricotta, but the texture might not be as rich.
• Cannoli Shells: You can buy premade cannoli shells from Italian bakeries or grocery stores. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade shells are always an option. Either way, they provide the perfect crispy vessel for the filling.
• Powdered Sugar: This adds sweetness to the filling and a finishing touch of elegance when dusted over the cannoli.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances the flavor of the ricotta filling and complements the ramps beautifully.
• Chocolate Chips: Optional, but they add a fun texture and sweetness to the filling.

When selecting your ingredients, freshness is key—especially for ramps. Store them loosely wrapped in a damp paper towel inside the fridge to keep them crisp. Ricotta should be stored in its original container and used within a few days of opening.

Feel free to get creative with substitutions. For example, if you’re dairy-free, you could try blending tofu or cashew cream with ramps for a similar texture. Seasonal variations are also fun—try adding a hint of lemon zest or swapping powdered sugar for honey when ramps are out of season.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of bowls to prepare the filling and hold your ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer works well to achieve a fluffy ricotta filling.
• Pastry Bag: This makes filling the cannoli shells neat and easy. If you don’t have one, a resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off works too.
• Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl.
• Microplane or Grater: If you want to add citrus zest to the filling.

No fancy equipment? No worries! I’ve used a spoon to fill cannoli shells in a pinch—it’s messier but gets the job done. As for the mixer, you can mix everything by hand with a bit of elbow grease.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Ramps: Wash and trim the ramps, removing any wilted leaves. Finely chop the bulbs and leaves.
2. Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups (475g) of ricotta cheese, 1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the chopped ramps. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
3. Add Optional Ingredients: Stir in 1/4 cup (40g) mini chocolate chips or a sprinkle of lemon zest for added flavor.
4. Fill the Cannoli Shells: Transfer the ricotta mixture to a pastry bag. Carefully pipe the filling into each cannoli shell, ensuring both ends are evenly filled.
5. Garnish: Dust the cannoli with powdered sugar and add a sprinkle of finely chopped ramps or chocolate chips for a decorative touch.
6. Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for a chilled dessert.

If your ricotta seems too watery, drain it through a cheesecloth for an hour before mixing. And remember, overfilling can lead to messy cannoli—it’s better to underfill and add more later.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to make your Ramp & Ricotta Cannoli a success:

• Draining Ricotta: If your ricotta is watery, strain it through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve to ensure a thick and creamy texture.
• Balancing Flavors: Ramps can be bold, so taste the filling as you mix and adjust sweetness or vanilla to balance the flavors.
• Prevent Soggy Shells: Fill the cannoli shells just before serving to keep them crispy.
• Chill the Filling: Refrigerate the ricotta mixture for at least 30 minutes before piping—it makes the filling easier to work with.
• Experiment with Garnishes: Try dipping the edges of the cannoli shells in melted chocolate or sprinkling crushed nuts for added texture.

I learned the hard way that overmixing ricotta can make the filling runny, so keep an eye on the consistency as you go!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ramps entirely and add lemon zest or fresh mint for a purely sweet twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cannoli shells or substitute with hollowed-out strawberries for a low-carb option.
• Seasonal Adaptation: When ramps are out of season, try using green onions, chives, or even finely chopped basil.

My favorite variation? I once added a drizzle of honey and crushed pistachios to the top of each cannoli for a nutty, sweet crunch—it was a hit!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your cannoli:

• Serving Temperature: Serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.
• Presentation: Arrange the cannoli on a platter, dust them with powdered sugar, and garnish with extra ramps or chocolate chips.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the filling and shells separate if possible to avoid sogginess.
• Reheating: No reheating needed—just fill and enjoy!

As the flavors meld in the fridge, the ramp’s savory note deepens, making the cannoli even tastier the next day.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Ramp & Ricotta Cannoli recipe offers a unique mix of flavors and nutrients:

• Calories: Approximately 200 per cannoli (depending on shell size and filling amount).
• Health Benefits: Ramps are rich in vitamins A and C, while ricotta provides protein and calcium.
• Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly and can be adapted to be gluten-free or dairy-free.

While this dessert isn’t the lightest, it’s a great way to enjoy seasonal ramps in moderation!

Conclusion

Ramp & Ricotta Cannoli is a fun, flavorful twist on a beloved classic dessert. The unique combination of savory ramps and creamy ricotta will surprise and delight your taste buds, making this recipe worth every bite. Whether you’re showcasing seasonal ingredients or just looking for a creative dessert, this recipe is a must-try.

Let me know how your cannoli turns out! Leave a comment below with your variations, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends who love experimenting in the kitchen. Happy baking!

Remember, dessert is all about creativity—so get adventurous and enjoy every moment!

FAQs: Ramp & Ricotta Cannoli

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