The History of the Cannoli

Written by: Anna Pafenberg

Sicily is known for its crispy and ricotta filled confection, but where did they come from? They are alike in Italian desserts in the sense they have ricotta, but their crispy shell is very unique. In truth, the cannoli originated in Sicily when it was under Arab rule in the 10th and 11th century. 

They adapted their technique of harvesting sugar from sugar cane. It was invented by a group of women living together in a castle, and while waiting for their husbands they would craft up many delicious foods and treats! Finally, when all of Italy started to embrace Catholicism in the 11th century, nuns and other church members would make them for festivals and religious events. The cannoli was a symbol for fertility and to establish a true connection with God. By the 14th century, the close guarded recipe for the cannoli passed down through nuns was served to royalty in Palermo. 

They made them in Dolcerias (sweet shops) in order for the Catholic church to make money. Maria Oliveri, a historian, decided to publish the recipe in 2014 from the fear of the sacred recipe being lost by the nuns throughout the years as they never wrote it down. The recipe was simply passed from word of mouth. In the 1880’s, there was a large migration of Sicilian’s due to the Industrial Revolution and the recipe was brought to America!

It is an Italian tradition to have at least 12 cannolis on a plate when serving to guests. It is also a tradition to have them piled in certain shapes. Cannolis are fried dough circles wrapped around a metal tube while frying to get a cylindrical shape. The ‘metal tube’ of the 10th century was reeds from a river.They are filled with sweetened and flavored ricotta cheese, usually from a sheep or a goat. A good cannoli sounds hollow when tapped. That means that it will hopefully have the perfect crunch! 

From a tradition dating back to Carnivale in Sicily, to a world-wide famous treat, the cannoli has it all. The perfect and unique crunch amongst many soft Italian foods and desserts. The perfect way to end a dinner, and as a way to honor Italian history. The cannoli has seen everything from the 10th century to now! Whether you want chocolate, citrus, or just plain traditional, a cannoli has everything you need and more from Sicily.