The world of desserts is always evolving, but some classic treats remain timeless favorites. One such indulgence is the beloved cannoli. These Sicilian pastries have been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious foodie, we’ve got 18 irresistible cannoli recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
From classic fillings to innovative twists, our collection features an array of flavors and textures to tantalize your taste buds. With everything from chocolate-dipped treats to lemon-infused delights, there’s something for everyone in this comprehensive guide. So grab a cup of espresso, get ready to indulge, and let the sweet adventure begin!
Classic Sicilian Cannoli
A traditional Italian pastry filled with sweetened ricotta cheese, these classic cannoli are a must-try dessert. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making the shell and filling from scratch.
Ingredients:
For the shells:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons lard or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vinegar, for frying
For the filling:
– 12 oz sweetened ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour, lard or shortening, and salt.
3. Slowly add vinegar while mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to a thin sheet.
5. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Fry shells for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil with paper towels.
8. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract.
9. Fill fried shells with the sweetened ricotta mixture.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent treat featuring crispy cannoli shells filled with sweetened whipped cream and dipped in rich chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Fill each cannoli shell with the whipped cream mixture.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Dip the filled cannoli shells into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
6. Place the dipped cannoli on a parchment-lined baking sheet; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble and chill.
Pistachio Cannoli with Ricotta Filling
Classic Italian treats get a nutty twist with these pistachio-filled cannoli.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped pistachios.
3. To assemble the cannoli, fill each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture.
4. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! Just assemble and serve.
Lemon Zest Cannoli
Add a burst of citrusy freshness to your dessert game with these lemon zest cannoli! Crunchy, chewy, and utterly delightful, this Italian classic gets a bright and zesty twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cannoli shells (about 12-15 shells)
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in lemon juice and melted butter until well combined.
3. Fold in grated lemon zest.
4. Fill each cannoli shell with the lemon zest mixture, mounding slightly.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Mini Cannoli Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet snack any time of the day. With their crispy shells and creamy fillings, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini cannoli shells (about 20-25 shells)
– 1 cup of sweetened whipped cream
– 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Chocolate chips or chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Fill each mini cannoli shell with about 1-2 teaspoons of whipped cream mixture.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow shells to soften.
5. Just before serving, drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with chopped pistachios (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! These mini bites are best served fresh.
Cannoli Cheesecake
Cannoli Cheesecake Recipe
A unique fusion of Italian and American desserts, this Cannoli Cheesecake combines the crispy shells of traditional cannoli with a creamy cheesecake filling. This sweet treat is perfect for anyone looking to impress at their next dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– Chocolate chips or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Prepare the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Espresso Cannoli with Mascarpone
Elevate your dessert game with these rich and creamy espresso-infused cannoli, filled with a velvety mascarpone mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 8 ounces (225g) mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons strong brewed espresso or 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
– Vanilla extract to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and mascarpone until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter, espresso, and vanilla extract; whisk until well combined.
3. Fill each cannoli shell with the mascarpone mixture, mounding slightly at the top.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None required (assembly only)
Cannoli Ice Cream
Experience the creamy delight of cannoli in a new way with this unique ice cream recipe. Sweet and crunchy, just like the classic Italian dessert, this treat is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped candied citron
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (such as Bittersweet or Semi-Sweet)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Stir in chopped candied citron and chocolate chips.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Remove from refrigerator and whisk in vanilla extract and salt.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (chill time: 2 hours or overnight)
Orange Blossom Cannoli
Orange Blossom Cannoli Recipe
Escape to the Mediterranean with these creamy cannoli filled with an orange blossom-infused ricotta mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, orange blossom water, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Spoon the filling into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
3. Pipe the filling into the cannoli shells, mounding slightly at the top.
4. Dust the tops with confectioners’ sugar and sprinkle with chopped pistachios (if using).
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Cannoli French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this creative take on French toast, infused with the sweet and crispy flavors of cannoli. This recipe combines the richness of cinnamon-spiced bread with the indulgent filling of sweetened whipped cream and crushed cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or Italian bread
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sweetened whipped cream (see note)
– Crushed cannoli shells (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and cinnamon.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Top each French toast slice with whipped cream, crushed cannoli shells, and a drizzle of melted butter.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Amaretto Cannoli with Almond Crunch
This recipe combines the traditional Sicilian pastry with the subtle flavor of amaretto and a crunchy almond topping. The perfect treat for anyone looking to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells
– 1 cup sweetened ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, amaretto liqueur, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix well.
2. Spoon the mixture into the cannoli shells, filling them about 3/4 of the way full.
3. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top of each shell.
4. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
5. Top each cannoli with a spoonful of almond crunch.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Raspberry Swirl Cannoli
Transform your dessert game with these sweet and tangy raspberry swirl cannoli! Crunchy shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture infused with the sweetness of raspberries, this treat is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cannoli shells
– 12 oz (340g) ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp (30g) granulated sugar
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, whipped
– Fresh raspberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form; fold into the ricotta mixture.
4. Fill cannoli shells with the ricotta mixture, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Arrange fresh raspberries on top of the filling to create a swirl design.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the shells are crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cannoli Dip with Cinnamon Chips
Cannoli Dip with Cinnamon Chips Recipe
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this unique and delicious dip that combines the classic flavors of cannoli with crunchy cinnamon chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 bag (6-8 oz) cinnamon flavored chips, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Add heavy cream and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
4. Fold in the crushed cinnamon chips.
5. Chill dip in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (chilling time not included)
Serve chilled with graham crackers, cookies, or fruit. Enjoy!
Tiramisu Cannoli
Elevate your dessert game with this unique fusion of Italian favorites – the creamy richness of tiramisu and the crispy, fried goodness of cannoli. This recipe combines the two to create a show-stopping treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cannoli shells
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add cocoa powder and whisk until well combined.
3. Fold in cooled coffee.
4. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the tiramisu mixture into each cannoli shell.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None ( assembly only)
Cannoli-Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and indulgent twist on classic French toast. Cannoli cream and crispy pastry add a unique texture to the fluffy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or Brioche
– 1/2 cup Cannoli cream
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
2. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Cook the French toast for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, mix together Cannoli cream and powdered sugar.
6. Once the French toast is cooked, slice it in half lengthwise.
7. Stuff each slice with the Cannoli cream mixture.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Chocolate Cannoli
Get ready to delight your senses with these crispy, creamy, and indulgently sweet white chocolate cannoli. This Italian-inspired dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cannoli shells
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 8 ounces white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and white chocolate chips until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt; whisk until combined.
4. Fill cooled cannoli shells with the white chocolate mixture.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (filling only requires chilling)
Cannoli Cupcakes with Ricotta Frosting
These decadent cupcakes combine the classic flavors of cannoli with a moist vanilla cake and a tangy ricotta frosting, making for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– Ricotta frosting (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Ricotta Frosting:
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Beat ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Spread over cooled cupcakes.
Cannoli Puff Pastry Twists
A delightful twist on the classic cannoli, these sweet and crispy pastries are filled with a creamy cannoli cream filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup cannoli cream filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into long, thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide.
4. Twist each strip into a coil shape and place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before filling with cannoli cream.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and crispy world of cannoli! From classic Sicilian treats to creative twists, these 18 irresistible recipes will satisfy your cravings. Discover how to make chocolate-dipped, pistachio-filled, lemon-zest infused, and many more unique cannoli flavors. Plus, learn how to turn cannoli into cheesecake, ice cream, and even French toast! With so many options, you’ll never run out of ideas for this Italian dessert favorite.
