Are you ready to indulge in one of Italy’s most beloved desserts? Look no further than the classic cannoli! These crispy, fried shells filled with sweet and creamy goodness are a treat for the senses. Whether you’re a dessert lover or just looking to impress your guests, we’ve got 19 mouth-watering cannoli recipes to satisfy your cravings.
From traditional Sicilian fillings to creative twists like chocolate chip and nutella, our list has something for everyone. Want to make them at home? We’ll take you through the steps of making the perfect cannoli shells and fillings. Need inspiration for a party or special occasion? Our mini and bite-sized recipes are perfect for snacking and socializing. Whatever your preference, we’ve got the perfect recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth.
So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in these delicious cannoli recipes! Which one will be your new favorite?
Classic Sicilian Cannoli with Ricotta Filling
A classic Italian dessert, cannoli are fried pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and chocolate chips. This recipe yields 12-15 cannoli.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– Vinegar, for frying
– Ricotta filling (recipe below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Chocolate chips, for garnish
Ricotta Filling:
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add lard or shortening and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Fry cannoli shells in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
7. Drain on paper towels and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Fill cooled shells with ricotta filling and garnish with chocolate chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cannoli with a Creamy Twist
Elevate the classic Italian pastry by infusing it with the deep flavors of dark chocolate and the creaminess of mascarpone cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cannoli shells (12-15 count)
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and chocolate chips until smooth.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before whisking in mascarpone cheese and butter until fully incorporated.
5. Fill cooled cannoli shells with the creamy chocolate mixture. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Cannoli Bites for Party Appetizers
Mini Cannoli Bites: A Delicious Party Appetizer
These bite-sized treats are a creative twist on the classic Italian dessert. They’re perfect for parties, gatherings, and special occasions when you want to impress your guests with a sweet and savory snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 package of mini cannoli shells (about 24-30 shells)
• 8 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fill each cannoli shell with a dollop of ricotta cheese mixture (mix ricotta and confectioners’ sugar until smooth).
3. Place a few chocolate chips on top of the filling.
4. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the chocolate.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chocolate is melted and the cannoli shells are crispy.
6. Garnish with fresh fruit and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: 24-30 mini cannoli bites
Pistachio Cannoli with a Nutty Crunch
Get ready to elevate your cannoli game with the perfect combination of crunchy pistachios and creamy filling!
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cannoli shells
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted pistachios
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Fold in the chopped mint leaves and vanilla extract.
3. Fill each cannoli shell with the pistachio-infused filling, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
4. Sprinkle the toasted pistachios over the filling.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None (just assemble and serve!)
Lemon Zest Cannoli for a Citrusy Flavor
Brighten up your dessert game with these refreshing Lemon Zest Cannoli, packed with the perfect balance of citrusy flavor and sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) sweetened ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons (30g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon (15g) lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 cannoli shells, fried and cooled
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the lemon mixture into each cannoli shell.
3. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
4. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( assembly only)
Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli with a Decadent Finish
Elevate your dessert game with these rich, chocolatey treats that combine crispy cannoli shells with a creamy filling and a velvety chocolate glaze.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells
– 1 cup sweetened ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Fill each cannoli shell with the ricotta mixture, mounding slightly.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Dip the top of each filled cannoli into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
6. Place dipped cannoli on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on chocolate melting method)
Gluten-Free Cannoli for Dietary Needs
For those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity, this recipe provides a delicious and authentic Italian treat that’s just as tasty without the wheat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Fry shells in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Allow shells to cool completely before filling with ricotta cheese mixture and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Nutella Cannoli with a Hazelnut Surprise
Elevate your dessert game with these crispy, creamy cannoli filled with rich Nutella and topped with a surprising hazelnut crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cannoli shells
– 1 cup Nutella
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, mix the Nutella, granulated sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the Nutella mixture until well combined.
5. Fill each cannoli shell with the Nutella mixture, mounding it slightly.
6. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top of the filling.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on your oven)
Tips:
– Chill the filled cannoli shells in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
– Experiment with different types of nuts or chocolate chips to create unique flavor combinations.
Vanilla Bean Cannoli with a Smooth Filling
A classic Italian dessert gets a creamy twist with this recipe for vanilla bean cannoli filled with a silky smooth mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12-14 cannoli shells (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and cooled milk mixture until smooth.
6. Fold the whipped cream into the egg yolk mixture until no white streaks remain.
7. Fill cannoli shells with the smooth filling and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Cannoli for a Sweet Spice
Sweet Spice Cinnamon Sugar Cannoli Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these crispy, cinnamon-sugar-filled cannoli shells. This recipe is a perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cannoli shells (about 12-15 shells)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1/2 cup sweetened ricotta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Dip each cannoli shell into the sugar mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
6. Allow shells to cool completely.
7. Fill cooled shells with whipped cream and sweetened ricotta cheese.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Use high-quality cannoli shells for the best results.
– Adjust amount of sugar to your taste.
– These cannoli are best served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Strawberry Cannoli with Fresh Berry Compote
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy treat! Flaky cannoli shells filled with creamy strawberry ricotta, topped with a luscious fresh berry compote.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 12-15 cannoli shells
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together sliced strawberries and blueberries with honey until well combined.
4. Fill cannoli shells with the ricotta mixture, then top with fresh berry compote.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including baking time)
Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli with Coffee Flavor
Elevate your cannoli game with the rich flavors of tiramisu, featuring espresso-infused filling and a crispy shell. This unique dessert combines the best of both worlds in one delicious package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 cups (250g) mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup (60ml) strong brewed espresso
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 12-15 cannoli shells
– Chocolate chips or shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar and mascarpone cheese. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the brewed espresso and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the softened butter until well combined.
4. Fill cannoli shells with the coffee-flavored filling, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Garnish with chocolate chips or shavings.
Cooking Time: None ( Assembly only)
Amaretto Cannoli with a Hint of Almond Liqueur
Elevate your cannoli game with this creamy, sweet, and indulgent treat infused with the rich flavors of amaretto and almond liqueur.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp amaretto liqueur
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped candied orange peel
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, ricotta cheese, amaretto liqueur, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Spoon the filling into the chilled cannoli shells.
3. Sprinkle chopped candied orange peel over the filling.
4. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply assemble and chill.
Caramel Drizzle Cannoli for a Gooey Treat
Caramel Drizzle Cannoli: A Gooey Treat
Elevate your cannoli game with this sweet and indulgent recipe that combines crispy shells with a rich caramel filling. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth, these treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cannoli shells
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Add granulated sugar and kosher salt; whip until combined.
4. Fold in softened butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Fill cannoli shells with the whipped cream mixture.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the filled shells.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! These treats are ready in a jiffy.
Matcha Green Tea Cannoli for a Unique Twist
Discover the harmonious blend of matcha green tea and traditional Italian cannoli. This unique twist on a classic dessert combines the bright, grassy flavor of matcha with the crispy, creamy texture of cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– Cannoli shells (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and matcha powder; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough and pipe into cannoli shells.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before filling with whipped cream and granulated sugar mixture.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Cannoli with a Creamy Filling
Experience the perfect blend of crispy pastry and rich peanut butter filling in this unique cannoli recipe. A twist on the classic Italian dessert, these bite-sized treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cannoli shells (about 12-15 shells)
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Fill each cannoli shell with about 1-2 tablespoons of the peanut butter mixture.
5. Drizzle chilled heavy cream over the filling to create a creamy layer.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (no baking required)
Orange Blossom Cannoli with a Floral Note
These sweet treats combine the creamy richness of cannoli filling with the delicate flavor and fragrance of orange blossom water, perfect for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cannoli shells (12-16 pieces)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange blossom water
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the orange blossom water and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Fill each cannoli shell with the whipped cream mixture, mounding it slightly.
4. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None (filling can be prepared ahead of time)
Raspberry Swirl Cannoli with a Fruity Filling
Experience the sweet and tangy combination of fresh raspberries and creamy filling wrapped in crispy cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cannoli shells (12-15 count)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Fold in the raspberry puree until well incorporated.
4. Dust a work surface with confectioners’ sugar.
5. Fill each cannoli shell with about 1-2 tablespoons of the creamy filling, leaving a small border at the top.
6. Roll the filled shells into tubes and chill for at least 30 minutes to set the filling.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Coconut Cannoli with a Tropical Touch
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing take on the classic Italian pastry. Infused with the creamy richness of coconut and the sweetness of tropical fruits, these bite-sized treats are sure to transport you to a sunny island getaway.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup tropical fruit preserves (such as pineapple or mango)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and honey; mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each cannoli shell with the coconut mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Drizzle tropical fruit preserves over the filling.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and delicious world of cannoli with these 19 mouth-watering recipes. From classic Sicilian-style ricotta fillings to creative twists like chocolate chip, Nutella, and matcha green tea, there’s a flavor combination for every dessert lover. Discover mini bites perfect for parties, gluten-free options for dietary needs, and unique flavors like cinnamon sugar and orange blossom. Whether you’re looking for a decadent treat or a sweet surprise, these cannoli recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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