Are you ready to elevate your dessert game with some scrumptious cannoli fillings? These delightful Italian treats are not just about the crispy shell; the filling is where the magic truly happens. Let’s explore some easy and delicious recipes that will make your taste buds dance!
The Heartwarming Side of Cannoli Filling Recipes
Growing up, my grandmother would whip up her famous cannoli filling every Sunday, and the sweet aroma would fill the house, making it feel like home. I remember standing by her side, eagerly waiting for the moment I could dip in a spoon and taste that creamy goodness; it felt like a rite of passage.
This recipe has stayed in my rotation because it’s incredibly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser, whether for family gatherings or a quiet evening treat. It embodies the spirit of comfort food, bringing back cherished memories while allowing for a bit of culinary creativity.
People love this filling because it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and rich, and it opens the door to countless variations, from adding chocolate chips to infusing it with different flavors like pistachio or almond. Each bite is a reminder of the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones.

Quick Overview Before You Start
- ⏱ Cooking time: 15 minutes
- 🔥 Difficulty level: Easy
- 💰 Estimated cost:
- 🍽 Servings: 12
- 🎯 Best for: Parties and special occasions
The Core Ingredients That Matter
- Ricotta cheese This creamy cheese is the foundation of the filling, providing a rich texture and flavor.
- Powdered sugar This sweetener brings just the right amount of sweetness to balance the ricotta.
- Vanilla extract A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Popular Twists People Love
- For a chocolate lover’s dream, add mini chocolate chips to the filling.
- Incorporate citrus zest for a refreshing and bright flavor profile.
- Swap out ricotta for mascarpone cheese for an ultra-creamy texture.
- Try infusing the filling with espresso for a delightful coffee twist.
A Few Notes That Actually Help
- Always use whole milk ricotta for the best texture and flavor.
- Let the filling chill in the fridge for at least an hour to enhance the flavors.
- For a lighter filling, fold in some whipped cream before piping into the shells.
- Be sure to fill the cannoli shells just before serving to keep them crispy.
- Experiment with different flavor extracts, like almond or hazelnut, for a unique twist.
These recipes are carefully curated from across the web, offering you a chance to save time and make better choices while sparking your creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy the journey!
Classic Ricotta Cannoli
This traditional filling is a beloved favorite for a reason! Made with creamy ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and a hint of vanilla, it’s the perfect blend of sweetness and richness. To make it even more enticing, you can add chocolate chips or candied orange peel for that extra zing. What makes this recipe special is its simplicity; it captures the essence of classic Italian desserts, making it a must-try for any cannoli lover!
Chocolate Hazelnut Delight
Chocolate Hazelnut Delight from SOS Cuisine
Rating: 4. Ingredients: Chocolate, cinnamon, eggs, all purpose, vanilla extract Total Time: 20 min.
Kato's Chocolate Hazelnut Delight Torte from Food.com
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Chocolate cake mix, instant coffee, espresso, icing sugar, bittersweet chocolate Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.
Chocolate hazelnut delight from CookinBreak
Ingredients: Dark chocolate, butter, eggs, flour, sugar Total Time: 50 min.
If you’re a fan of chocolate, then this filling will blow your mind! Combining the smoothness of chocolate hazelnut spread with ricotta, you’ll get a creamy, dreamy filling that’s hard to resist. Add a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts on top for that perfect crunch. This recipe is popular among kids and adults alike, and it’s a delightful twist on the traditional cannoli that will satisfy any chocolate craving!
Lemon Zest Cream
Lemon Whipped Cream from FIVEheartHOME
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Heavy cream, powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest Total Time: 10 min.
Wonderfully Sweet & Tart Lemon Whipped Cream from Sand Dollars and Lime
Ingredients: Heavy whipping cream, juicer, powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest Total Time: 10 min.
Lemon Posset from Saving Room for Dessert
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Heavy cream, lemon juice, blueberries Total Time: 25 min.
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing lemon filling! Mixing ricotta cheese with fresh lemon juice and zest creates a zesty, tangy flavor that’s incredibly refreshing. A touch of powdered sugar sweetens it up just right. This recipe stands out because it’s light and invigorating—a perfect treat for warm days, evoking the essence of summer in every bite!
Mint Chocolate Chip Cannoli
Bring a fun twist to your cannoli with this minty fresh filling! By blending ricotta with mint extract and mini chocolate chips, you’ll create a unique flavor combination that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The coolness of the mint paired with chocolate makes this filling feel like a dessert and a breath mint all in one. It’s a popular choice for those who love to experiment with flavors and makes for a delightful surprise at any gathering!
Peanut Butter Bliss
Peanut Butter Bliss Balls (High Protein) from MJ and Hungryman
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Natural peanut butter, white beans, medjool dates, quick oats, vanilla extract Total Time: 10 min.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Bliss from Beast Health
Ingredients: Peanut butter, chocolate protein powder, banana, almond milk
Chocolate Peanut Butter Bliss from Tabs & Tidbits
Ingredients: Creamy peanut butter, peanut butter cups, cream cheese, fudge pudding mix, oreo cookies Total Time: 3 hr 15 min.
Calling all peanut butter lovers! This filling is a dream come true. The creamy richness of peanut butter blended with ricotta creates a filling that’s both sweet and slightly salty. You can add mini chocolate chips or even crushed pretzels for a bit of crunch. What makes this recipe special is its ability to satisfy those peanut butter cravings while still feeling light and airy, perfect for a fun twist on the classic cannoli!
Coconut Cream Surprise
How to Make Cannoli Filling from Baker by Nature
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, cannoli shells, fresh orange zest, sugar Total Time: ricotta cheese, mini chocolate chips, cannoli shells, fresh orange zest, sugar.
Cannoli from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, sweet marsala wine, egg white, cinnamon, lemon zest Total Time: 3 hr 45 min.
The Best Authentic Sicilian Cannoli Filling Recipe from Mortadella Head
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Fresh ricotta cheese, dark chocolate chips, powdered sugar, vanilla extract
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this delightful coconut filling! By mixing ricotta with sweetened shredded coconut and a splash of coconut extract, you’ll create a filling that’s creamy and luscious. For an even more exotic touch, try adding some crushed pineapple. This recipe is loved for its unique flavor and is a fun way to bring a little island vibe to your dessert spread!











