When it comes to Italian pastries, few are as iconic and indulgent as the humble cannoli. The crispy, fried shells filled with sweetened ricotta cheese are a staple at bakeries and cafes throughout Italy and beyond. But why stick to traditional when you can take your cannoli game to the next level with creative twists on the classic filling? From boozy liqueurs to bold flavors like strawberry swirl and maple walnut, we’ve gathered 18 creamy cannoli filling recipes that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or looking to shake things up, these unique takes on the traditional cannoli are sure to delight.
Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling with Chocolate Chips
Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling with Chocolate Chips Recipe
Rich and creamy ricotta filling infused with dark chocolate chips, perfect for filling cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar and mix until combined.
3. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Fold melted chocolate into the ricotta mixture until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (assemblage only)
Lemon Zest and Honey Ricotta Cannoli Filling
Lemon Zest and Honey Ricotta Cannoli Filling Recipe
Add a bright and sunny twist to the classic cannoli filling with this Lemon Zest and Honey Ricotta recipe. The combination of tangy lemon zest, sweet honey, and creamy ricotta cheese is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon pure honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the honey and mix until well combined.
3. Season with a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required! This filling is best served chilled.
Pistachio and Orange Blossom Cannoli Filling
This sweet and savory filling combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with the fragrant essence of orange blossom water, perfect for piping into crispy cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup pistachio paste (or 1/4 cup chopped pistachios)
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and pistachio paste until smooth.
2. Add the orange blossom water and whisk until well combined.
3. Add the softened butter and whisk until a smooth filling forms.
Cooking Time: None
This filling is best used fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Chocolate Hazelnut Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this decadent filling that combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate and hazelnuts. This simple recipe yields a creamy, indulgent treat perfect for filling homemade or store-bought cannoli shells.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons melted dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
• 1 tablespoon hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and whip until combined.
3. Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Let cool slightly.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream mixture until well combined.
5. Stir in the hazelnut spread, vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Bean and Mascarpone Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this creamy, dreamy filling featuring the sweet and velvety combination of vanilla bean and mascarpone cheese.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 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. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Whip until smooth.
3. Add the vanilla extract and whipped cream to the mascarpone mixture. Fold gently until well combined.
4. Scrape in the seeds from the split vanilla bean and fold into the filling.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is best used fresh, so prepare just before assembling your cannoli shells.
Amaretto-Spiked Cannoli Filling with Almonds
Elevate your cannoli game with this creamy, sweet, and nutty filling infused with the rich flavors of amaretto and toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon amaretto liqueur
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and softened butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in amaretto liqueur and vanilla extract.
4. Allow the filling to cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, fold in toasted almonds.
Cooking Time: None (chilling time not included)
Espresso-Infused Cannoli Filling with Cocoa Dust
Espresso-Infused Cannoli Filling with Cocoa Dust Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich and decadent espresso-infused filling, topped off with a dusting of dark cocoa powder. Perfect for coffee lovers and anyone seeking a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until it begins to thicken.
2. Add the granulated sugar, espresso powder, and kosher salt. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Spoon the filling into pre-filled cannoli shells or make your own by frying wonton wrappers and letting them cool.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on whipping speed)
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of espresso powder to your taste, but keep in mind that a strong espresso flavor will overpower the sweetness.
– Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best results.
Cinnamon and Brown Sugar Cannoli Filling
Cinnamon and Brown Sugar Cannoli Filling Recipe
Transform your cannoli game with this sweet and indulgent filling! A perfect combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and creamy goodness will have you hooked.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and butter until smooth.
2. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract; 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 let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: None (this is a chilled filling)
Strawberry Swirl Ricotta Cannoli Filling
This classic Italian dessert gets a sweet and tangy twist with the addition of fresh strawberries and creamy ricotta cheese. Perfect for filling cannoli shells or using as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh strawberries
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in strawberry jam and chopped fresh strawberries.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this creamy, coffee-infused filling inspired by the classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and whole milk until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Fold the dry ingredients into the whipped cream mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! This filling is best served chilled.
Coconut and Lime Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this refreshing coconut and lime filling, perfect for a sweet and tangy twist on the classic Italian dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the coconut and confectioners’ sugar.
2. Add the softened butter to the bowl and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the lime juice and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
This creamy and citrusy filling is perfect for piping into cannoli shells or using as a topping for cakes, pastries, or ice cream. Enjoy!
Maple Walnut Cannoli Filling
Sweeten your cannoli game with this rich and indulgent Maple Walnut filling. Perfect for a special treat or holiday dessert, this recipe combines the warmth of maple syrup with the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (110g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add the maple syrup, softened butter, and vanilla extract; whisk until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. When ready to fill cannoli shells, remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: None
Dark Chocolate and Cherry Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich and fruity filling, perfect for the chocolate-lover in you.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup cherry preserves or jam
– 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 heat and stir in the heavy cream until smooth.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in the cherry preserves and vanilla extract.
5. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before filling your cannoli shells.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Cooling time: 30 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cannoli Filling
This autumn-inspired filling combines the classic cannoli flavors with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Let the mixture cool slightly before whisking in the pumpkin puree until smooth.
4. Strain the filling through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or impurities.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Raspberry Rose Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this sweet and tangy filling, combining the freshness of raspberries with the elegance of rose petals. Perfect for a romantic dessert or a unique treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons rose syrup (or substitute with rosewater and honey)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the raspberries and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the raspberries until smooth.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, rose syrup (or substitute), and heavy cream.
4. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
5. Add the raspberry puree and lemon juice to the saucepan.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the filling has thickened slightly.
7. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Caramel Cannoli Filling
Sweeten up your cannoli with this luscious banana caramel filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mashed bananas, granulated sugar, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
2. Add unsalted butter and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Mix until combined.
3. Stir in caramel sauce and a pinch of salt.
4. Chill filling in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using.
Cooking Time: None required! This filling is ready to use straight from the fridge.
White Chocolate and Pistachio Cannoli Filling
This sweet and nutty filling combines the richness of white chocolate with the crunch of pistachios, making it a perfect treat for cannoli lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (250g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (30g) chopped pistachios
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Stir the melted white chocolate into the cream mixture until well combined.
5. Fold in the chopped pistachios and vanilla extract.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Boozy Baileys Irish Cream Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this decadent filling infused with the rich flavors of Baileys Irish Cream and dark chocolate. Perfect for a sophisticated dessert or cocktail party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened whipped cream
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Baileys Irish Cream liqueur
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the sweetened whipped cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, Baileys Irish Cream liqueur, and melted dark chocolate chips until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well combined.
4. Add the vanilla extract and salt; stir to combine.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: About 1 cup of filling, enough for 8-10 cannoli shells
Summary
Cannoli lovers, rejoice! This article brings you 18 unique and delicious creamy cannoli filling recipes with a twist. From classic ricotta to innovative flavor combinations like lemon zest and honey, pistachio and orange blossom, and even boozy Baileys Irish Cream, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in the richness of chocolate hazelnut or the brightness of strawberry swirl, or try something entirely new like espresso-infused with cocoa dust or maple walnut. Whether you’re a seasoned pastry chef or a curious foodie, these creative cannoli fillings are sure to satisfy your cravings.
