FILLING FOR CANNOLI SHELLS

3 lbs. ricotta cheese*
1 3/4 cups sifted confectioners sugar
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tbl. chopped citron
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate bits

Beat ricotta cheese in a large bowl for 3 minutes until very smooth. Add sugar and beat until very light and creamy, about 5 minutes. Add cinnamon, citron, and chocolate, and mix until throughly blended.

Keep this filling in refrigerator until ready to use. It may be prepared a day ahead of time.

Makes enough to fill 25 Cannoli

*Tips about the ricotta cheese