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### Instructions:
#### 1. **Make the Cannoli Shell**
Start by making the dough for the shell. In a large mixing bowl, combine the **flour**, **sugar**, **cinnamon**, and **salt**. Add the **egg**, **white wine vinegar**, and **butter**, then mix until the ingredients come together. Slowly add the **marsala wine**, a little at a time, until the dough forms a smooth ball. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
#### 2. **Roll Out the Dough**
Once the dough has rested, divide it into 2 equal portions. Roll one portion out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into a long rectangle (approximately 12-14 inches long and 4-5 inches wide). Repeat with the second portion of dough.
#### 3. **Shape the Shell**
Now, take the dough rectangles and gently wrap them around a **cannoli tube** or any tube-shaped object (like a metal rolling pin or a wooden dowel). Overlap the dough slightly and seal the edges with a dab of water to make sure it stays together during frying. Carefully heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the dough tubes, in batches if needed, for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and let them cool on a paper towel-lined tray.
#### 4. **Prepare the Cannoli Filling**
While the shells are cooling, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the **ricotta cheese**, **powdered sugar**, **vanilla extract**, and **cinnamon**. Mix well until the filling is smooth and creamy. If desired, fold in the **mini chocolate chips**, **pistachios**, or **orange zest** to add extra texture and flavor.
#### 5. **Assemble the Giant Cannoli**
To assemble the giant cannoli, place one of the cooled cannoli shells onto a serving platter. Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill the shell with the ricotta filling, making sure to pack it generously. If you’re making a giant version, you can carefully stack two or more shells for a more substantial presentation. After filling, top the cannoli with more mini **chocolate chips** and **chopped pistachios** for an added crunch and flavor. Finally, dust the top with a light coating of **powdered sugar** to give it that classic cannoli look.
#### 6. **Serve and Enjoy!**
Slice the giant cannoli into portions and serve immediately. The crispy shell combined with the creamy filling will delight your guests and leave everyone craving more.
### Why You’ll Love This Giant Cannoli Recipe:
– **Impressive and Eye-Catching**: A giant cannoli is not only a delicious dessert, but it also makes a stunning centerpiece for any occasion. It’s sure to wow your guests before they even take a bite!
– **Perfect Balance of Textures**: The crispy, flaky shell provides a wonderful contrast to the smooth, creamy filling. The optional chocolate chips, pistachios, and orange zest add delightful flavor and texture variations.
– **Customizable**: You can tailor the filling with your favorite additions—whether that’s a bit of chocolate, nuts, or citrus zest. The large shell gives you plenty of room for creativity.
– **Ideal for Special Occasions**: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or family gathering, the giant cannoli is the perfect dessert for creating lasting memories.
### Tips for the Perfect Giant Cannoli:
– **Drain the ricotta well**: To avoid a runny filling, be sure to drain the ricotta cheese thoroughly before mixing it with the sugar and other ingredients. You can place the ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve for about 30 minutes to get rid of excess moisture.
– **Fry the shells properly**: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If the oil is too hot, the shells will burn quickly, and if it’s too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
– **Prepare ahead**: The cannoli shells can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for a few days. The filling can also be made in advance, but it’s best to fill the shells just before serving to keep them crisp.
### Variations:
– **Chocolate Shells**: For an extra chocolatey twist, add cocoa powder to the cannoli dough, making the shells as rich and decadent as the filling.
– **Lighter Filling**: For a lighter filling, use mascarpone cheese or a combination of ricotta and whipped cream. You can also fold in a bit of whipped cream for added fluffiness.
– **Garnish Options**: Instead of pistachios, you can garnish your giant cannoli with toasted coconut flakes, crushed almonds, or even maraschino cherries for a festive look.
### Conclusion:
The **giant cannoli** recipe is an unforgettable treat that elevates the classic Italian dessert to a whole new level. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in something sweet, this giant version of the beloved cannoli will impress everyone at the table. With its crispy shell, creamy ricotta filling, and customizable toppings, it’s a dessert that will leave a lasting impression. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create this show-stopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
