Indulge in the sweet and delicious world of cannoli fillings with these 20 decadent recipes! From classic ricotta to innovative flavor combinations, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous foodie, there’s something for everyone in this collection of cannoli filling recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore the art of crafting the perfect cannoli filling, from simple and sweet to bold and daring. With flavors like chocolate chip, pistachio, and amaretto-infused, you’re sure to find a new favorite. And who knows? You might just discover your own signature flavor!
So grab a cannoli shell (or two, or three…), get ready to indulge, and let’s dive into the world of deliciousness!
Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling
This traditional Italian filling is a staple in Sicilian cuisine, typically served inside crispy cannoli shells. With its creamy texture and sweet-savory flavor profile, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons chopped candied citron (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the salt and mix well to combine.
3. If using candied citron, fold it into the ricotta mixture.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use within 24 hours of preparation.
Cooking Time: None required
Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy filling, perfect for cannoli shells or as a topping for cakes and pastries. This chocolate chip cannoli cream recipe combines the best of both worlds: velvety mascarpone cheese and dark chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mascarpone cheese and confectioners’ sugar. Beat until smooth.
2. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
3. Fold in dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
4. Season with a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Pistachio Cannoli Filling
This rich and creamy filling combines the sweet flavor of pistachios with a hint of citrus, perfect for filling crispy cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pistachio puree
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and butter until smooth.
2. Add pistachio puree, heavy cream, orange zest, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! Simply fill cooled cannoli shells with the prepared filling.
Lemon Zest Ricotta Filling
Elevate your pasta dishes or fillings with this vibrant lemon zest ricotta filling. The perfect combination of citrusy freshness and creamy richness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, breaking up any lumps with a fork.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is best used chilled or at room temperature.
Vanilla Bean Cannoli Cream
Elevate your cannoli game with this creamy and aromatic vanilla bean filling. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and yields a deliciously rich and smooth spread perfect for stuffing your favorite pastry shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 bean, split lengthwise (about 1 inch)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add sugar and salt; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. Soak the vanilla bean in the cream mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Remove the bean and discard.
6. Fold in softened butter until fully incorporated.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Amaretto-Infused Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich and creamy filling infused with the unmistakable flavor of amaretto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in amaretto liqueur and vanilla extract.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Before using, give the filling a good stir to ensure the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Cooling time: 2-24 hours
Orange Blossom Ricotta Filling
This Orange Blossom Ricotta Filling is a unique and flavorful combination of creamy ricotta cheese, sweet orange zest, and fragrant orange blossom water. Perfect for filling cakes, pastries, or cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, orange blossom water, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in grated orange zest and vanilla extract.
3. 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
Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli Cream
Elevate your cannoli game with this creamy, coffee-infused filling inspired by the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the espresso powder and vanilla extract.
4. Fold the espresso mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and confectioners’ sugar. Whip until smooth.
6. Fold the mascarpone mixture into the whipped cream mixture until fully incorporated.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble your cannoli shells with this creamy filling for an authentic Italian treat.
Hazelnut Chocolate Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich and decadent hazelnut chocolate filling. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of hazelnuts with the deepness of dark chocolate for a truly indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (115g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
– 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add heavy cream, hazelnut spread, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Fill cannoli shells with the chilled filling just before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using.
Raspberry Swirl Ricotta Filling
Elevate your desserts with this sweet and tangy filling, perfect for cakes, pastries, or cannoli.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and cornstarch.
3. Add the confectioners’ sugar mixture to the ricotta mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Gently fold in the raspberries.
5. Spoon or pipe the filling into prepared pastry shells or cakes.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled filling.
Maple Walnut Cannoli Cream
This rich and creamy filling is perfect for filling cannoli shells or using as a topping for your favorite desserts. The combination of maple syrup, walnuts, and cream creates a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the maple syrup, walnuts, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Mix until well combined.
3. Continue whipping the mixture until stiff peaks form.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your taste.
– Use fresh walnuts for the best flavor.
– This filling is perfect for making ahead of time, as it will only get better with time.
Espresso Chocolate Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this decadent filling made from espresso, dark chocolate, and creamy mascarpone cheese. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocoholics alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso (cooled)
– 6 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the cooled espresso to the mascarpone mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the espresso-mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated.
6. Gently fold in the whipped cream until no white streaks remain.
Cooking Time: None
Cinnamon Spiced Ricotta Filling
Elevate your desserts with this creamy and aromatic filling, perfect for cakes, pastries, and cannoli.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, breaking up any lumps with a fork if needed.
3. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Usage: This filling is perfect for cakes, pastries, cannoli, and other sweet treats. You can also use it as a dip for fruit or cookies. Simply fill your desired dessert with the cinnamon spiced ricotta mixture and enjoy!
Strawberry Cheesecake Cannoli Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Cannoli Cream recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup strawberry puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crushed ladyfingers (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and strawberry puree. Whip until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
5. Fill cannoli shells with the Strawberry Cheesecake Cannoli Cream.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with crushed ladyfingers if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( preparation time)
Yield: 8-10 cannoli
Caramel Pecan Cannoli Filling
Sweet and nutty, this caramel pecan filling is a perfect treat for your cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the caramel reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and pecans until well combined.
4. Let cool slightly before using as cannoli filling.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mascarpone and Honey Cannoli Cream
Elevate your cannoli game with this creamy and sweet filling, perfect for homemade cannoli shells or as a topping for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
2. Add the honey and whisk until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! Simply assemble and serve.
Blueberry Lemon Cannoli Filling
Sweet and tangy, this blueberry lemon filling is a perfect match for crispy cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries, lemon juice, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the blueberries have broken down (about 10 minutes).
3. Add cornstarch and whisk to combine. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream until smooth.
5. Let the filling cool to room temperature before using.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Coconut Cream Cannoli Filling
Coconut Cream Cannoli Filling Recipe
This rich and creamy filling combines sweetened coconut cream with the perfect balance of citrusy orange zest, making it a delicious addition to your cannoli or other desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Chill the coconut milk in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Open the chilled coconut milk and scoop out the solid coconut cream into a bowl, leaving behind any remaining liquid.
3. Add the sugar, orange zest, and melted butter to the coconut cream. Mix until well combined.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Dark Chocolate Ganache Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this luxurious dark chocolate ganache filling, perfect for dipping crispy shells or using as a topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the dark chocolate chips.
2. Remove from the heat and stir in the heavy cream until smooth.
3. Add the butter and vanilla extract; whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Allow the ganache to cool slightly, reaching a temperature of 82°F (28°C) to 86°F (30°C).
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required! This filling is ready when cooled to the desired temperature.
Banana Pudding Cannoli Cream
This sweet treat combines the classic Italian shell with a creamy banana pudding filling, perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this unique dessert at home.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cannoli shells
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy cream and whole milk until stiff peaks form.
2. Add softened butter, sliced bananas, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Spoon the banana pudding mixture into cannoli shells, filling to desired level.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and chill.
Summary
Indulge in the world of decadent cannoli fillings with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic ricotta to innovative flavors like amaretto-infused and tiramisu-inspired, there’s something for everyone. Try chocolate chip cannoli cream or hazelnut chocolate filling for a sweet treat. For a fruity twist, opt for raspberry swirl ricotta or blueberry lemon filling. And for a nutty surprise, try maple walnut or caramel pecan filling. With these creative recipes, you’ll never get bored with your cannoli again!
