There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly crisp cannoli filled with creamy goodness. These delightful Italian pastries are not just desserts; they’re a celebration of flavor and texture. Get ready to explore some mouthwatering recipes that will have you craving more!
The Irresistible Charm of Cannoli Recipes
I still remember the first time I tasted cannoli at my grandmother’s kitchen table, where the air was filled with the scent of sweet ricotta and citrus zest. As a child, the crispy shell and creamy filling felt like a special treat that I could never forget. It was a small moment that turned into a lifelong love for these delightful pastries.
<pThis recipe has remained a staple in my kitchen because it combines tradition with ease, allowing me to whip up a batch for family gatherings or simply to satisfy a sweet craving. The process is surprisingly straightforward, making it a go-to whenever I want to impress my friends or indulge in a little nostalgia.
People adore cannoli recipes for their delightful contrast of textures and flavors, and the possibilities for customization are endless. From classic chocolate chip fillings to adventurous flavors like pistachio or espresso, there’s a variation to suit every palate and occasion.

Quick Essentials
- ⏱ Cooking time: 45 minutes
- 🔥 Difficulty level: Medium
- 💰 Estimated cost:
- 🍽 Servings: 12 cannoli
- 🎯 Best for: Celebrations and special occasions
Key Ingredients You’ll Want to Get Right
- Ricotta cheese. This creamy cheese is the star of the filling, providing a rich and smooth texture.
- Cannoli shells. Crispy and flaky, these shells are essential for holding the delicious filling.
- Powdered sugar. This sweetener adds the perfect touch of sweetness to the filling without being overly grainy.
Easy Ways to Change It Up
- Try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Incorporate fruit, like crushed pineapple or berries, into the filling for a refreshing twist.
- Experiment with flavored chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, to complement the ricotta.
- Top your cannoli with a dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Things Worth Knowing Before You Cook
- Always chill your filling before piping it into the shells to ensure it holds its shape better.
- Fry the shells just until golden to achieve the perfect crunch without overcooking.
- For the best taste, fill the cannoli just before serving to keep the shells crisp.
- Consider using a mix of different flavored fillings to create an assortment for guests.
- Make sure to drain your ricotta well to avoid a watery filling that could soak the shells.
These delicious cannoli recipes offer a curated selection from around the world, ensuring you’ll save time and find the best inspiration for your next baking adventure.
Classic Ricotta Cannoli
Imagine a crunchy shell filled with a smooth, rich ricotta mixture that melts in your mouth. This classic recipe uses fresh ricotta cheese blended with powdered sugar and a hint of vanilla, creating a sweet filling that’s simply irresistible. What makes this version a favorite is the surprise of mini chocolate chips sprinkled throughout, adding a delightful crunch to every bite!
Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli
Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli with Orange Ricotta Filling from Food Network
Rating: 3.4. Ingredients: 1 h 25 min Total Time: 1 h 25 min.
Chocolate-dipped Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe by Tasty from Tasty
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 1 h 25 min Total Time: 1 h 25 min.
Who can resist chocolate? This variation takes the classic cannoli to the next level by dipping the ends of the shells in luscious melted chocolate. The filling remains a creamy ricotta blend, but the added chocolate brings a decadent twist that elevates the entire experience. It’s like having two desserts in one, and perfect for any chocoholic!
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.
Cannoli Pizzelle with Nutella & Pistachios from The Tiny Fairy
Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, pizzelle cookies, powdered sugar
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.
If you’re a fan of the beloved chocolate hazelnut spread, this recipe is a must-try. The filling combines ricotta with Nutella, resulting in a dreamy, sweet filling that’s both creamy and indulgent. What makes this recipe special is the surprise of chopped hazelnuts mixed in, giving you a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the smoothness of the Nutella.
Fruit-Infused Cannoli
Sicilian Cannoli Recipe from Mangia Bedda
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Red wine, dark chocolate chips, egg white, powdered sugar, cinnamon Total Time: 2 hr 20 min.
Homemade Cannoli from Food Network
Rating: 4. Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, white wine, chocolate chips, lemon, heavy cream Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.
How to Make Cannoli Filling from Baker by Nature
Rating: 5. 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.
For a refreshing twist, this cannoli recipe incorporates fruity flavors that are perfect for warmer months. By adding pureed strawberries or raspberries into the ricotta filling, you get a light and fruity taste that dances on your palate. Topped with fresh fruit pieces, this version is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes!
Cinnamon-Spiced Cannoli
Chocolate Quesadillas with Cinnamon Sugar & Cannoli Cream from Blue Apron
Rating: 4. Ingredients: 15 min
Imagine the warm, cozy taste of cinnamon swirling through a creamy filling. This recipe adds a touch of ground cinnamon to the ricotta mixture, giving each bite a delightful warmth that reminds you of your favorite fall desserts. It’s the perfect option for those looking to spice things up and enjoy a unique take on the traditional cannoli!
Caramel Pecan Cannoli
Caramel Pecan Cannoli from Punchfork
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: Ice cream sauce, ricotta cheese, cannoli shells, powdered sugar, soft caramels
Maple Pecan Pie Cannoli from In The Kitchen With April – Delicious food enjoyed with family and friends!
Ingredients: Pecan pie filling, maple pecan filling, marsala, maple syrup, brown sugar Total Time: 2 hr 15 min.
Valentine Tuile Cannoli from The Frayed Apron
Rating: 4.4. Ingredients: Whole wheat pastry, coconut oil, maple syrup, ricotta, honey Total Time: 15 min.
Indulgence takes on a new meaning with this caramel and pecan-filled cannoli. The creamy ricotta is mixed with sweet caramel sauce and crunchy pecans, creating a filling that’s both rich and satisfying. What truly makes this recipe shine is the drizzle of caramel on top, making it not just a treat but a show-stopping dessert!
Matcha Green Tea Cannoli
For those who love a hint of the exotic, this matcha cannoli is a delightful surprise. The filling combines ricotta with matcha powder, giving it a vibrant green color and a unique earthy flavor. This recipe stands out not only for its health benefits but also for its stunning appearance and the unexpected flavor that will keep your guests guessing!











