Holy cannoli, do we love good Sicilian pastries. So today, we’re featuring a recipe for classic cannoli, but giving them our Lifeway twist by swapping out the traditional ricotta and replacing it with Lifeway Farmer Cheese. By whipping our soft cheese with vanilla and chocolate, we’re infusing this dessert with active probiotic cultures while creating a rich, creamy filling for those deliciously crunchy shells. È spettacolare!
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Actually Need to Know
With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome.
Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion.
Studies have shown that reduced diversity of healthy gut bacteria during early years is associated with an increase in food allergies during school-age years. In addition, kefir made from whole milk helps absorb key nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is important because it helps your bones absorb calcium. It’s important to know that kefir contains a special trio: vitamin D, K, and calcium – all three crucial elements to support bone health.
Prebiotics + Probiotics = A Healthier You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of fiber-rich plant foods. Your body actually can’t digest prebiotics, so they’re what probiotics feed off of to remain actively working in your digestive system. They help the digestive system by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics work together in balance to make sure our digestive system stays on track and regular. Research has found that consuming a variety of prebiotic and probiotic food sources may improve your body’s natural functions, including both your immune and digestive systems.
Prep Time: 15 mins Servings: 4-6Ingredients
- 8-10 Cannoli Shells
- 2 cups Chocolate Sauce
- 2 cups Farmer Cheese
- 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
- Powdered sugar, for topping
- Sliced strawberries
Directions
- In a food processor, whip together Farmer Cheese, Vanilla Extract, and Chocolate Sauce until well blended.
- Add the Farmer Cheese mixture into a piping bag and insert it into the middle of the cannoli shells.
- Top with sliced strawberries and powdered sugar.
