Are you ready to take your cannoli game to the next level? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 unique and delicious creamy cannoli filling recipes that add a twist to the classic Italian dessert. From sweet treats like chocolate-hazelnut and strawberry-ricotta, to savory surprises like espresso-drenched and pumpkin-spiced, there’s something for every palate.
In the following pages, we’ll explore a wide range of flavors and combinations that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new recipe to try, these creamy cannoli fillings are sure to impress your friends and family.
So grab a cup of coffee, put on your apron, and let’s get started!
Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling with Chocolate Chips
This traditional Italian dessert filling gets a decadent twist with the addition of rich chocolate chips. Perfect for filling cannoli shells or using as a dip, this creamy treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the filling chilled, either directly from the refrigerator or after letting it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Zest and Honey Cannoli Cream
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing take on traditional cannoli cream. This creamy delight combines the warmth of honey with the brightness of lemon zest, perfect for a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until it begins to thicken.
2. Add the sugar, honey, and salt; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– None! This recipe is a chilled dessert, perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a sweet treat.
Pistachio and Orange Blossom Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this unique and flavorful filling, combining the richness of pistachios with the sweetness of orange blossom water.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and orange blossom water until well combined.
2. Add the chopped pistachios, softened butter, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Chocolate Hazelnut Cannoli Cream
A rich and creamy filling that combines the flavors of chocolate and hazelnut, perfect for filling cannoli shells or using as a dip. This recipe makes about 2 cups of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and hazelnut spread until smooth.
4. Fold the chocolate-hazelnut mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
6. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Amaretto and Almond Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this unique filling, combining the flavors of Amaretto liqueur and toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and butter until smooth.
2. Add the Amaretto liqueur, chopped almonds, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required
Vanilla Bean and Cinnamon Cannoli Cream
Transform your cannoli cream game with this velvety-smooth, aromatic filling infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the brightness of vanilla bean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and vanilla bean.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a quick and easy make-ahead treat.
Strawberry Ricotta Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this refreshing strawberry ricotta filling, perfect for springtime treats or anytime you crave a sweet and creamy delight.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced strawberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Fold in sliced strawberries and lemon juice.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– None! This filling is ready to use straight from the fridge.
Espresso and Dark Chocolate Cannoli Cream
Experience the perfect blend of rich espresso and dark chocolate in a creamy cannoli filling that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. This recipe is easy to make and requires just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until combined.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined.
5. Stir in the espresso powder and vanilla extract.
6. Spoon the cannoli cream into pre-fried cannoli shells and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Espresso and Dark Chocolate Cannoli Cream!
Coconut and Lime Cannoli Filling
This refreshing cannoli filling combines the sweetness of coconut with the tanginess of lime, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the coconut, confectioners’ sugar, and softened butter. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the lime juice and vanilla extract to the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required
Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli Cream
A creative twist on the classic Italian dessert, this cannoli cream combines the rich flavors of tiramisu with the crunch of cannoli shells. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon instant coffee powder (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
4. If desired, add the instant coffee powder and fold until evenly distributed.
5. Spoon the cream into cooled cannoli shells or a serving dish. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Maple Walnut Cannoli Filling
This sweet and nutty filling combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and toasted walnuts to create a unique and delicious cannoli filling. Perfect for the holiday season or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add the maple syrup, toasted walnuts, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. When ready to fill cannoli shells, remove the filling from the refrigerator and give it a good stir.
Cooking Time: None required. This filling is best served chilled.
Raspberry Swirl Ricotta Cannoli Cream
Raspberry Swirl Ricotta Cannoli Cream: A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
This recipe combines the classic Italian dessert with a burst of fresh raspberry flavor, creating a unique and delicious treat. Perfect for serving at parties or enjoying as a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped until stiff peaks form
– 12-15 cannoli shells, crispy
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Fold in confectioners’ sugar, pureed raspberries, and salt until well combined.
3. Gently fold in whipped heavy cream until the mixture is stiff and holds its shape.
4. Spoon the cream into cooled cannoli shells, filling them to the top.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Caramelized Banana Cannoli Filling
Transform ripe bananas into a sweet and caramelized filling perfect for cannoli or other pastry desserts. This recipe yields a rich, banana-based spread with notes of vanilla and a hint of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bananas in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Dot the top of each banana half with butter, then sprinkle with sugar and sea salt.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bananas are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from the oven and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Let cool to room temperature before filling cannoli shells or using as a topping.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cannoli Cream
This creamy filling combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly with a sweet and crunchy twist, perfect for cannoli or other dessert applications.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons grape jelly
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together peanut butter and jelly until smooth.
3. Fold the peanut butter-jelly mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Add sugar and vanilla extract, folding until dissolved.
5. If using chopped peanuts, fold them in at this stage.
6. Spoon or pipe the filling into prepared cannoli shells or other dessert vessels.
Cooking Time:
– 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Pumpkin Spice Cannoli Filling
Add a delicious twist to traditional cannoli filling with the warm spices and comforting flavors of pumpkin season. This sweet and creamy filling is perfect for fall celebrations or as a unique dessert option year-round.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None (chilled filling)
Mascarpone and Cherry Cannoli Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and sweet cannoli filling, featuring mascarpone cheese and cherry goodness.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and continue whipping until combined.
3. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in the chopped cherries until well distributed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! This creamy filling is ready to use after chilling.
White Chocolate and Raspberry Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this unique and delicious White Chocolate and Raspberry Filling recipe! This sweet and tangy combination is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons raspberry jam
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler.
2. Once melted, stir in the heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the raspberry jam, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is ready to use immediately after chilling.
Boozy Irish Cream Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this decadent filling that combines the richness of Irish cream liqueur with the sweetness of whipped cream and chocolate. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion that calls for a little indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup Irish cream liqueur (such as Baileys)
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup melted semisweet chocolate
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the Irish cream liqueur, confectioners’ sugar, and melted chocolate until well combined.
4. Add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply fill your cannoli shells with this boozy goodness and enjoy.
Summary
Get creative with these 18 creamy cannoli filling recipes that add a twist to the classic Italian treat! From classic ricotta with chocolate chips to innovative flavor combinations like lemon zest and honey, pistachio and orange blossom, and boozy Irish cream, there’s something for every palate. Try adding unique ingredients like maple walnut, caramelized banana, or pumpkin spice to give your cannoli a seasonal flair. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress or just want to mix things up in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
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