I don’t know anyone that doesn’t love a good cannoli. When I was pregnant I had very few cravings, but cannoli was a big one for me with both my girls. I love the flavors of the creamy filling with the crunch of the shell. It is a perfect combination. The problem with cannoli is that I don’t want to make them. They take quite a bit of time, and as anyone with kids knows, it’s not easy to find the time. Deconstructed cannoli is the next best thing…it might even be better. As a lover of cannoli, I say this only because it is very quick and easy to make while also being quite versatile.

You can serve this with any type of cookie or cracker that you like, as well as with any fruit or chocolate. My favorite way to serve this is in a martini glass with shaved dark chocolate and berries. It’s so good that I have also eaten it with a spoon right out of the bowl.

This is the perfect dessert for entertaining that you can make ahead of time and have ready in the refrigerator. I have never had any leftovers and my guests are always impressed with the presentation.

I highly recommend straining the ricotta the night before making this dessert. This is an important step, because if the ricotta is too wet, the dish will be thin and runny. It is incredibly easy to do and is totally worth the extra step.

To strain the ricotta, you will need a fine mesh strainer, a cheesecloth and a bowl. Place the strainer over a bowl and line with cheesecloth. Add the ricotta, spreading it into an even layer. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator. Let the ricotta strain for about 6-8 hours. I like to do this overnight. Discard the liquid and you are ready to go!

Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, strained
• 1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese
• 1/4 cup condensed milk
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 3/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 bar dark chocolate
• cookies for dipping

Directions:

• Combine mascarpone, strained ricotta cheese, condensed milk and vanilla extract in a mixer bowl and mix until smooth
• Add powdered sugar and cinnamon and mix until smooth and well combined
• Refrigerate until ready to serve
• Fill desired glass or dish with the cannoli filling and top with shaved chocolate,raspberries and desired cookies
• Enjoy!