If you’re craving something sweet and crispy, cannoli is the way to go! This classic Italian dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Get ready to whip up some delightful variations of this beloved pastry right in your own kitchen!
The Heartfelt Charm of Homemade Cannoli Recipes
Growing up, my grandmother made the most delightful cannoli, and every holiday was a celebration of those crispy shells filled with sweet, creamy goodness. I remember standing by her side, helping to mix the ricotta, and sneaking spoonfuls of the filling when she wasn’t looking. Those moments instilled a deep love for this dessert in me, and I couldn’t wait to recreate it in my own kitchen.
This recipe has become a staple in my household because it brings a touch of joy and nostalgia with every bite. It’s perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or just a sweet treat on a Sunday afternoon. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends and family with something homemade.
People adore cannoli for their delightful contrast of textures and flavors, and they often customize their fillings with chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit. The versatility of homemade cannoli recipes means you can easily adapt them to suit your taste or dietary needs, making them a beloved choice for many.

Quick Look Before You Start
- ⏱ Cooking time: 1 hour
- 🔥 Difficulty level: Medium
- 💰 Estimated cost:
- 🍽 Servings: 12
- 🎯 Best for: Celebrations and special occasions
Core Ingredients That Make This Recipe Shine
- Ricotta cheese – This creamy cheese forms the base of the filling, providing a rich and smooth texture.
- Cannoli shells – Crispy, fried pastry shells that hold the delicious filling, giving that perfect crunch.
- Powdered sugar – Adds sweetness to the filling and a lovely dusting on top, enhancing the dessert’s appeal.
Creative Twists to Enhance Your Cannoli
- Try adding a splash of orange zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus kick.
- Incorporate mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness and texture in your filling.
- Experiment with flavored ricotta, such as vanilla or almond, to change up the classic flavor profile.
- Top with crushed pistachios for a delightful crunch and beautiful presentation.
A Few Tips That Actually Help
- Make sure your ricotta is well-drained to avoid a watery filling.
- Chill your filling before piping it into the shells for the best texture.
- Fry the cannoli shells in small batches to ensure even cooking.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to keep them looking fresh.
- If you have leftover filling, it can be used as a dip for fruit or cookies.
These recipes are curated from across the web, providing you with a delightful selection to inspire your baking adventures while saving you time and offering better choices for your table. Enjoy the journey of making these sweet treats!
Classic Ricotta Cannoli
The traditional taste of cannoli starts with creamy ricotta filling and a crunchy shell. This recipe combines fresh ricotta, powdered sugar, and a hint of vanilla to create a sweet, velvety filling that’s simply irresistible. What makes this recipe special is the blend of flavors and textures, making every bite a delightful experience!
Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, chocolate chips, cannoli shells.
Gather your ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a dessert that transports you straight to Italy with every bite!
Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli
Chocolate Cannoli from Pies and Tacos
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, marsala wine, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, powdered sugar Total Time: 7 hr 30 min.
Chocolate-Dipped Mocha Cannoli from The Pioneer Woman
Ingredients: Almond bark, unsweetened cocoa powder, mini chocolate chips, cream, orange Total Time: almond bark, unsweetened cocoa powder, mini chocolate chips, cream, orange.
Mini Chocolate Cannoli Recipe from GODIVA Chocolates
Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, godiva dark chocolate, orange, mini cannoli shells, powdered sugar Total Time: ricotta cheese, godiva dark chocolate, orange, mini cannoli shells, powdered sugar.
Who can resist chocolate? This recipe takes the classic cannoli to a whole new level by dipping the ends of the crispy shells in melted dark chocolate. The rich chocolate contrasts beautifully with the sweet ricotta filling, adding an extra indulgent touch that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, dark chocolate, cannoli shells, and optional toppings like crushed pistachios or sprinkles.
Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just looking to impress your friends, these chocolate-dipped cannoli will surely steal the show!
Lemon Zest Cannoli
Cannoli from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, sweet marsala wine, egg white, cinnamon, lemon zest Total Time: 3 hr 45 min.
Cannoli Dip {with Lemon Zest} from Family Table Treasures
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Cream cheese, ricotta cheese, lemon, heavy cream, sugar Total Time: 10 min.
Lemon Meringue Pie Cannoli from Hungry Happenings
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Lemon curd, marshmallow fluff, pillsbury pie crusts, powdered sugar, egg Total Time: 30 min.
Brighten your day with a refreshing twist on the classic cannoli! This recipe incorporates zesty lemon into the ricotta filling, offering a burst of citrus flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness. It’s a delightful option for those hot summer days or whenever you need a pick-me-up!
Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, cannoli shells, and optional toasted coconut for garnish.
With its sunny flavor and creamy texture, these lemon zest cannoli are sure to become a favorite for anyone who tries them!
Nutella Cannoli
Nutella Cannoli from My Three Seasons
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, cocoa powder, cannoli shells, powdered sugar Total Time: 30 min.
Chocolate Hazelnut Cannoli from Colavita Recipes
Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, chocolate hazelnut spread, dark chocolate, cannoli shells, milk chocolate Total Time: 1 hr.
Chocolate Cannoli from Pies and Tacos
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, marsala wine, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, powdered sugar Total Time: 7 hr 30 min.
For all the Nutella fans out there, this version is a dream come true! Imagine a creamy filling made with ricotta and luscious Nutella, stuffed inside a crispy shell. It’s a sweet treat that combines the classic Italian dessert with the beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread, making it a unique and delicious option.
Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, Nutella, powdered sugar, cannoli shells, and chopped hazelnuts for topping.
These Nutella cannoli are perfect for anyone who wants a taste of nostalgia and indulgence all in one bite!
Strawberry Cheesecake Cannoli
Cannoli Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries from Jersey Girl Cooks
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Cream cheese, graham cracker crumbs, ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, powdered sugar Total Time: cream cheese, graham cracker crumbs, ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, powdered sugar.
Cannoli Cream Strawberry Shortcake from Snappy Gourmet
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, fresh orange juice, mini chocolate chips, buttermilk, heavy cream Total Time: ricotta cheese, fresh orange juice, mini chocolate chips, buttermilk, heavy cream.
Strawberry Cannoli Cones from Persnickety Plates
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Cream cheese, ricotta cheese, waffle cones, mini chocolate chips, frozen strawberries Total Time: cream cheese, ricotta cheese, waffle cones, mini chocolate chips, frozen strawberries.
Bring a fruity twist to your dessert table with strawberry cheesecake cannoli! This recipe blends creamy mascarpone cheese with fresh strawberries, creating a filling that tastes just like cheesecake. Wrapped in crispy shells and topped with additional strawberries, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients: Mascarpone cheese, ricotta cheese, fresh strawberries, powdered sugar, cannoli shells, and graham cracker crumbs for garnish.
These strawberry cheesecake cannoli are perfect for spring or summer gatherings and will add a refreshing note to your dessert lineup!











