Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannolis

If you love the tangy brightness of lemon meringue pie and the delightful crunch of cannoli, get ready for a treat! These Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannolis are a refreshing twist on classic desserts, combining the best of both worlds in every bite.

Imagine crispy, sweet cannoli shells filled with a creamy, zesty lemon filling that will awaken your taste buds. Topped with a light and airy meringue, this dessert is a showstopper for any gathering or a delightful indulgence for yourself.

This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a blend of textures and flavors. The tartness of the lemon contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the meringue, making each cannoli a delightful experience.

Deliciously Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie Cannolis

The Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannolis are a stunning fusion of flavors and textures. These delightful treats feature crispy cannoli shells that encase a luscious lemon filling. This dessert is not only visually appealing but also offers a refreshing taste experience that can brighten any occasion.

With each bite, the balance between the zesty lemon cream and the fluffy meringue creates a symphony of taste. The tartness from the lemon curd is harmonized by the sweetness of the meringue, making it a satisfying conclusion to any meal.

Crafting the Perfect Cannoli Shells

To achieve the ideal cannoli shell, one can either opt for store-bought shells or prepare them homemade. If creating them from scratch, frying or baking is essential to reach that desirable golden-brown color and crispy texture. It’s important to allow the shells to cool completely before filling them, ensuring that they maintain their crunch when paired with the creamy filling.

The choice of whether to make the shells at home or purchase them can affect the overall experience. Homemade shells often have that distinct freshness and texture that enhances the entire dessert. On the other hand, store-bought options save time, especially when entertaining guests.

Creating the Creamy Lemon Filling

The lemon filling is the star of this dessert, and preparing it is straightforward. By combining lemon curd with whipped cream, one achieves a rich and creamy texture that complements the crunchy shells beautifully. The lemon curd, whether homemade or store-bought, brings that essential tangy flavor that defines this dish.

This filling can be made in advance, allowing flavors to meld together, which can enhance the overall taste. For those who enjoy a hint of extra sweetness, a touch of powdered sugar can be added during the mixing process.

Whipping Up the Fluffy Meringue

The meringue topping adds an airy quality to the cannolis. Beating egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Gradually adding sugar while continuing to beat will create a glossy meringue that holds its shape well.

Once the meringue is prepared, it can be dolloped generously on top of the filled cannoli. This layer not only provides texture contrast but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.

Finishing Touches for Presentation

To elevate the dessert even further, torching the meringue creates a beautiful caramelized top. This can be done carefully with a kitchen torch or under a broiler, ensuring it is closely monitored to avoid burning.

The garnishing process is equally important. Sprinkling fresh lemon zest over the meringue and adding mint leaves introduces a pop of color and freshness, making the dish visually inviting. This is especially ideal for serving at gatherings or special occasions, as it adds that final touch of elegance.

Serving and Enjoying the Cannolis

These Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannolis are best served immediately to maintain their delightful texture. The contrast between the crunchy shell and the creamy filling is at its peak when fresh.

Perfect for a summer gathering or as a delightful treat, these cannolis offer a refreshing twist on traditional desserts. Each bite promises a burst of flavor, making them an enjoyable experience for anyone who appreciates the combination of sweet and tart.

Ingredients

• 12 cannoli shells
• 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon for garnish
• Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cannoli Shells: If using store-bought cannoli shells, skip to the next step. If making from scratch, fry or bake the cannoli shells according to your recipe until golden and crispy. Allow to cool completely.
2. Make the Lemon Filling: In a bowl, combine the lemon curd with half of the whipped cream until well blended. Set aside.
3. Whip the Cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the lemon curd mixture.
4. Prepare the Meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
5. Fill the Cannoli: Using a piping bag, fill each cannoli shell with the lemon filling, then top with a generous dollop of meringue.
6. Torch the Meringue: Using a kitchen torch, carefully toast the meringue until it is lightly browned. If you don’t have a torch, you can also place the filled cannoli under a broiler for a few seconds, watching closely to avoid burning.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle lemon zest over the meringue and add mint leaves for a fresh touch. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 12 cannolis
• Calories: 220kcal per cannoli
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 28g