Cannoli

Cannoli are delightful Italian pastries originating from Sicily, and they occupy a cherished position in Sicilian cuisine. These treats feature crispy, fried, tube-shaped shells filled with a luscious, sweet, and creamy ricotta cheese filling. Cannoli come in various sizes, from petite bites to larger versions, particularly popular in cities like Palermo and Piana degli Albanesi in Sicily. On the mainland, they are often referred to as "cannoli siciliani."

The name "cannolo" is derived from the Italian word "canna" meaning "cane" or "tube." In Italian, "cannoli" is the plural form of "cannolo" but in English, people typically use "cannoli" for both singular and plural, with "cannolo" being less common.

Originally, cannoli were a seasonal treat, enjoyed during Carnevale (Carnival) in the Palermo and Messina regions of Sicily. However, they have since become a year-round favorite in Sicilian cuisine. Interestingly, similar desserts exist in Middle Eastern traditions, such as "Zainab's fingers" and "qanawāt" which also involve fried dough filled with sweet ingredients. This hints at a possible cultural exchange from the time of the Muslim Emirate of Sicily.