The sweet and crispy shell, the delicate balance of flavors… there’s nothing quite like a perfectly filled cannoli. And when it comes to the creamy filling, the possibilities are endless! In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 delicious and unique recipes for cannoli fillings that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic ricotta to decadent chocolate chip, and from nutty pistachio to fruity raspberry swirl, each of these recipes offers a special twist on the traditional filling.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to try something new, we’ve got you covered with our carefully curated list of creamy cannoli fillings. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in a world of sweet treats.
Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling
This recipe yields a creamy and sweet ricotta filling, a traditional component of Italian cannoli pastries. Perfect for topping your favorite desserts or using as a dip for fruit or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the salt and mix until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Chocolate Chip Cannoli Filling
This decadent filling is a game-changer for cannoli lovers, combining the classic Italian pastry with the richness of chocolate chips. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and softened butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, whisking continuously until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and set aside.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the cream mixture until fully incorporated.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is ready to use straight away.
Pistachio Cannoli Filling
Pistachio Cannoli Filling Recipe
Sweet and creamy, this pistachio cannoli filling is a delicious twist on the classic Italian treat. With the nutty flavor of pistachios and the richness of heavy cream, these fillings are sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and butter until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and whisk until stiff peaks form.
3. Stir in the chopped pistachios and vanilla extract.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
• For best results, chill the filling for at least 30 minutes before using.
• You can also add a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness.
• These fillings are perfect for filling cannoli shells or using as a topping for cakes and pastries.
Orange Zest Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this vibrant and citrusy filling, featuring the brightness of orange zest. Perfect for springtime or anytime you want to add a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and orange juice. Mix until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Fold in the grated orange zest.
4. Season with salt to balance flavors.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is ready to use straight away.
Vanilla Bean Cannoli Filling
Vanilla Bean Cannoli Filling Recipe
Summary: This creamy filling is infused with the sweet and comforting flavor of vanilla beans, perfect for cannoli shells or other desserts.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Sift in the confectioners’ sugar and fold gently into the whipped cream mixture.
5. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with a knife or spoon. Fold the seeds into the filling.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Note: This filling can be used immediately, or refrigerated for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before using.
Lemon Ricotta Cannoli Filling
Brighten up your Italian dessert game with this refreshing Lemon Ricotta Cannoli Filling recipe. This sweet and tangy filling is perfect for piping into crispy cannoli shells or using as a topping for fruit or cakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Before using, give the filling a good stir to redistribute the ingredients.
Cooking Time:
– None required! This recipe is ready in just 5 minutes of prep time.
Amaretto Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich and creamy Amaretto filling, perfect for any Italian-inspired dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon amaretto liqueur
– 1/2 cup sweetened whipped cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
2. Add the granulated sugar and kosher salt; continue whipping until well combined.
3. Stir in the amaretto liqueur to give the filling its distinctive flavor.
4. Fold in the sweetened whipped cream until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time:
– None required! This filling is ready to use immediately after preparation.
Cinnamon Spiced Cannoli Filling
Cinnamon Spiced Cannoli Filling Recipe
Elevate your cannoli game with this warm and comforting cinnamon-spiced filling. Perfect for the fall season, this recipe combines the classic sweetness of cannoli with the cozy warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the ground cinnamon and vanilla extract.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! This filling is ready to use immediately after preparation.
Honey Walnut Cannoli Filling
Sweeten your cannoli with this creamy and nutty filling made with honey, walnuts, and ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Fold in chopped walnuts.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is ready to use straight away.
Raspberry Swirl Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this sweet and tangy raspberry swirl filling, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup pureed raspberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. In a small saucepan, combine cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together softened butter and pureed raspberries until well combined.
5. Fold the raspberry-butter mixture into the cooled cornstarch mixture until smooth.
6. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Coconut Cream Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich and creamy filling made with coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for topping your favorite Italian pastries or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut cream
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Open the coconut cream and scoop out the thick cream that has risen to the top, leaving the liquid behind.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Espresso Chocolate Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this decadent espresso chocolate filling recipe. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, this indulgent treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1/4 cup melted semisweet chocolate
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together butter, sugar, and espresso powder until well combined.
3. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Fold whipped cream into the butter mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Add melted chocolate and vanilla extract to the mixture, folding until fully incorporated.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using.
Cooking Time: None
Maple Pecan Cannoli Filling
Maple Pecan Cannoli Filling Recipe
A sweet and nutty twist on the classic cannoli filling, this recipe combines the richness of maple syrup with the crunch of toasted pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine confectioners’ sugar, corn syrup, and maple syrup. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugars have dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the filling reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla extract, and toasted pecans until well combined.
4. Allow the filling to cool slightly before using it to fill cannoli shells.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cherry Almond Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this sweet and tangy filling featuring cherry and almond flavors. Perfect for homemade cannoli or as a topping for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cherry preserves (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, and butter until smooth.
2. Add almond extract and salt; whisk to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cherry preserves and sliced almonds.
6. Allow filling to cool and thicken before using.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli Filling
Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli Filling Recipe
Summary: Elevate your cannoli game with this unique and delicious filling, inspired by the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu. This creamy mixture combines mascarpone cheese, espresso, and chocolate for a taste sensation like no other.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder (or strong brewed coffee)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, cocoa powder, and coffee powder. Mix until smooth.
2. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and whip until combined.
3. Fold in whipped heavy cream until no white streaks remain.
4. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply fill your cannoli shells with this delicious filling and enjoy.
White Chocolate Cannoli Filling
Add a luxurious twist to traditional cannoli with this creamy white chocolate filling recipe. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique dessert treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (such as Lindt or Ghirardelli)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whipped cream, confectioners’ sugar, melted white chocolate, and softened butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing well to combine.
5. Cover the filling and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Lavender Honey Cannoli Filling
Lavender Honey Cannoli Filling Recipe
Elevate your cannoli game with this unique and delicious filling, featuring the soothing flavors of lavender and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the confectioner’s sugar, butter, and lavender buds.
2. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and the lavender is fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the honey until well combined.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then beat in the egg yolks and vanilla extract.
5. Strain the filling through a fine-mesh sieve into an airtight container.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before using.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is a no-bake recipe.
Caramelized Banana Cannoli Filling
Transform bananas into a sweet and indulgent filling perfect for cannoli shells. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with a rich caramel flavor, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the bananas into 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Sprinkle sugar evenly over the banana slices, then dot with butter.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bananas are tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. In a blender or food processor, combine cooled banana mixture, heavy cream, and salt. Blend until smooth.
7. Refrigerate until chilled before using as cannoli filling.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Cup Cannoli Filling
A creative twist on traditional cannoli filling, this recipe combines the classic flavors of peanut butter cups with sweetened whipped cream and crunchy chocolate chips. Perfect for filling pre-baked cannoli shells or using as a topping for cakes and desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup chopped peanut butter cups (crunchy and smooth)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add granulated sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in chopped peanut butter cups and softened butter until well combined.
4. Stir in salt and dark chocolate chips.
5. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Mascarpone Berry Cannoli Filling
Mascarpone Berry Cannoli Filling Recipe
Summary: This sweet and tangy filling is a perfect match for cannoli shells. A creamy mascarpone cheese mixture is infused with the sweetness of berries, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese
– 1 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 cups (250g) mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in the mixed berries and lemon juice.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: About 2 cups (400g) of filling, enough for 12-15 cannoli shells.
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors and creamy textures of these 20 cannoli filling recipes! From classic ricotta to decadent chocolate chip, each unique flavor combination will delight your taste buds. Try adding orange zest for a burst of citrus, or pistachio for a nutty twist. For a sweet treat, opt for vanilla bean or caramelized banana fillings. And for the coffee lovers out there, espresso chocolate is sure to satisfy. Whatever your craving, these creamy cannoli fillings will transport you to Italy with every bite!
