### Almond Cake Cannoli Trifle: A Festive Dessert Recipe
Looking to impress your guests with a stunning dessert that combines the rich flavors of almond cake and cannolis? Look no further! Our Almond Cake Cannoli Trifle is perfect for special occasions or just a delightful treat any day. Follow these detailed steps to create this impressive layered dessert.
#### Ingredients
- 12 whole phyllo pastry sheets (about 10 oz)
- 1 cup melted butter, plus extra for brushing
- 3 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- Zest and juice of one lemon
- 8-10 almond cookies (like Amaretti)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting
- 3 large egg whites, stiffly beaten to soft peaks
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- Fresh berries or chopped fruit for garnish
#### Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Mixing spatula
- Pastry brush
- 9-inch round baking dish
- Mixing spoon
- Fine sieve
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Almond Cake Layer:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
- Gradually fold in the powdered sugar. Set aside.
2. **Assemble the Almond Cake:**
- Place one sheet of phyllo pastry on your work surface. Brush with melted butter.
- Repeat this process until you have 10 layers, brushing each layer with butter before adding the next.
- Carefully roll up the phyllo and place it in a greased cake pan.
- Fill the rolled-up phyllo with half of the beaten egg whites. Top with another 10 phyllo layers brushed with butter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
3. **Prepare the Cannoli Filling:**
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and juice.
- Stir until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
4. **Assemble the Trifle:**
- Cut the almond cake into thin slices.
- Layer the cake slices in your serving dish.
- Spoon a generous amount of cannoli filling over each layer.
- Repeat this process to create 3-4 layers, ending with a layer of cake on top.
5. **Add the Cannoli Shells:**
- Break open the almond cookies and place them around the edges or on top of the cake for added texture.
- Drizzle any leftover filling over the top.
6. **Final Touches:**
- Garnish with fresh berries or chopped fruit.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
7. **Refrigerate:**
- Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
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Enjoy crafting this delightful Almond Cake Cannoli Trifle. Impress your friends and family with its elegant layers and exquisite flavors!