Cheat Air Fryer Pistachio Cannoli (Tortilla Wraps)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for when you want the delicious flavor and texture of cannoli without the hassle of making dough from scratch or deep-frying. Using tortillas and an air fryer makes these cannoli lighter, quicker, and just as satisfying. The creamy ricotta filling combined with crunchy pistachios and optional chocolate chips offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ¼ cup pistachios, finely chopped
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the tortilla shells: Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Brush each tortilla lightly with melted butter on both sides. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over both sides of each tortilla.
2. Shape the cannoli shells: Cut each tortilla in half. Roll each half tightly into a cylinder shape, pressing the edges to seal so the filling won’t leak. You can use toothpicks to secure if needed.
3. Air fry: Place the rolled tortillas in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through.
4. Make the filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, finely chopped pistachios, and mini chocolate chips (if using) until well combined.
5. Fill the shells: Once the shells are cooled slightly, pipe or spoon the ricotta filling into each cannoli shell.
6. Serve immediately for best texture and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Makes 8 cannoli
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 5-7 minutes

Variations

• Substitute ricotta with mascarpone for a richer filling.
• Add orange zest or vanilla extract to the filling for extra flavor.
• Use crushed almonds or walnuts instead of pistachios.
• Drizzle finished cannoli with melted chocolate or dust with powdered sugar.

Storage/Reheating

• Best served fresh to keep shells crispy.
• Store filled cannoli in the refrigerator for up to 1 day; shells may soften.
• Unfilled shells can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheat unfilled shells briefly in the air fryer to crisp before filling.

FAQs

Can I bake these cannoli instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until crispy, turning once.

Can I use whole wheat tortillas?

Yes, whole wheat tortillas work but may be slightly less crispy.

How do I prevent the shells from becoming soggy?

Fill the cannoli just before serving and keep shells and filling separate until then.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the filling and refrigerate up to 2 days in advance.

Can I freeze the shells?

Unfilled shells can be frozen in an airtight container and reheated before filling.

Are these cannoli gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Yes, try cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of liqueur for different flavor profiles.

Can I make mini cannoli?

Cut tortillas into smaller pieces and adjust cooking time accordingly.

Can I use cream cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, but ricotta gives a lighter texture closer to traditional cannoli filling.

How do I secure the cannoli shape while cooking?

Use toothpicks to hold the ends closed, removing them before filling.

Conclusion

Cheat Air Fryer Pistachio Cannoli made with tortilla wraps offer a quick, easy way to enjoy a crunchy, creamy Italian-inspired dessert without the fuss. With minimal ingredients and speedy air fryer cooking, these cannoli are perfect for a fun treat or impressing guests with minimal effort.

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