Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, salt, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until the butter is fully melted and the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 1–2 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the dough cool for 5 minutes.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough should become smooth, shiny, and pipeable.

Step 2: Pipe and Bake the Cream Puffs

1. Transfer the choux dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round or star tip. Pipe small mounds (about 1 1/2 inches wide) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
2. Lightly wet your finger with water and smooth the tops of the mounds to eliminate any peaks.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cream puffs are puffed and golden brown. Do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause the puffs to collapse.
4. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cream puffs cool inside for 10 minutes. This helps prevent deflation.

Step 3: Prepare the Cannoli Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese, mascarpone (if using), powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Beat until smooth and creamy.
2. Fold in the mini chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, and orange zest, if desired.
3. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a small round or star tip. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Cannoli Cream Puffs

1. Once the cream puffs have cooled completely, use a sharp knife to cut a small slit in the side or bottom of each puff.
2. Pipe the cannoli filling into each puff, filling them generously but not so much that they split.
3. Dust the filled cream puffs with powdered sugar and drizzle with melted chocolate for a decorative finish. Garnish with additional chocolate chips or nuts, if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the cannoli cream puffs immediately, or refrigerate them until ready to serve. These pastries are best enjoyed within 24 hours of assembly.