The sweet and crispy shell of a cannoli is nothing without its creamy, dreamy filling. For centuries, this Sicilian pastry has been a staple at Italian bakeries and festivals, with its delicate fried dough enveloping a rich, velvety interior. But why stick to just one classic flavor when you can have 18? From decadent chocolate chip to bright citrus notes, we’ve gathered the most mouthwatering cannoli filling recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous foodie, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy delights.
Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling
A traditional Italian dessert, cannoli filling is a creamy and sweet delight that pairs perfectly with crispy shells. This classic recipe uses high-quality ricotta cheese as its base.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup 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.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! Simply chill the filling before serving.
Chocolate Chip Cannoli Filling
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this rich and creamy chocolate chip filling perfect for cannoli shells or using as a topping for cakes, ice cream, or yogurt. This recipe yields about 2 cups of deliciousness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) sweetened whipped cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine whipped cream, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Beat until stiff peaks form.
2. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Fold in chocolate chips.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– None required! This filling is ready straight from the fridge.
Orange Zest Cannoli Filling
Brighten up your cannoli game with this vibrant orange zest filling! This sweet and tangy treat is perfect for springtime gatherings or as a unique dessert offering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons orange zest (about 1 navel orange)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioner’s sugar and heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the orange zest and vanilla extract.
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! This filling is a no-bake recipe, perfect for hot summer days or last-minute gatherings.
Pistachio Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this creamy pistachio filling, perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to impress. This rich and nutty spread is surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and salt.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped pistachios and ricotta cheese.
4. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is best served chilled, so keep it in the fridge until ready to use.
Lemon Ricotta Cannoli Filling
Brighten up your cannoli game with this refreshing and creamy lemon ricotta filling! Perfect for springtime or anytime you need a burst of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of grated lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
3. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before using, give the mixture a good stir.
Cooking Time:
– None! This filling is ready straight from the fridge.
Vanilla Bean Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this simple and creamy vanilla bean filling recipe. Perfect for homemade or store-bought shells, this sweet treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 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 it begins to thicken.
2. Add the granulated sugar and kosher salt; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean into the mixture.
4. Fold the whipped cream gently to combine with the vanilla bean seeds.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! Simply assemble and serve.
Amaretto Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich and creamy Amaretto filling, perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year. With its subtle almond flavor and deep brown color, this filling is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon amaretto liqueur
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, butter, vanilla extract, and amaretto liqueur until well combined.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the milk mixture until smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Cinnamon Spice Cannoli Filling
Add a warm and inviting twist to your cannoli filling with this cinnamon-spiced recipe. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to add some extra flavor to your desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and granulated sugar until well combined.
2. Add the heavy cream, softened butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the bowl.
3. Whisk the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Honey Walnut Cannoli Filling
Sweeten your cannoli game with this delectable honey walnut filling. This simple recipe combines the richness of honey and walnuts for a unique flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and honey until well combined.
2. Add the chopped walnuts and mix until they’re evenly coated with the sugar-honey mixture.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Fold in the ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a filling recipe!
Tips:
– Use high-quality honey and walnuts for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of confectioners’ sugar to your taste.
– This filling is perfect for cannoli, but you can also use it as a topping for fruit or yogurt.
Raspberry Swirl Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this sweet and tangy raspberry swirl filling that’s perfect for homemade treats or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine raspberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the berries have broken down, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Stir in cornstarch and lemon juice until well combined. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until the filling has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain the seeds out of the mixture using a fine-mesh sieve.
4. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold whipped cream into cooled raspberry mixture until well combined.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Coconut Cream Cannoli Filling
Add a tropical twist to your cannoli with this creamy coconut filling. Perfect for dessert or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the coconut mixture until fully incorporated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a chilled filling.
Espresso Chocolate Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich and decadent espresso chocolate filling that combines the bold flavors of Italy’s favorite coffee drink with velvety dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir the espresso powder into the melted chocolate until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required, as this filling is a chilled dessert.
Maple Pecan Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich Maple Pecan filling, perfectly balancing the sweetness of maple syrup with the earthy flavor of pecans. This creamy treat is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 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 whisk until smooth.
3. Add the maple syrup, pecans, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply chill before filling your cannoli shells.
Cherry Almond Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this unique filling that combines the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together cherry preserves and confectioners’ sugar until well combined.
2. Stir in sliced almonds, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and almond extract.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Fill pre-baked cannoli shells with the filling and serve.
Cooking Time: None required (assembly only).
Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this creamy, coffee-infused filling inspired by the classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu. This recipe combines the rich flavors of espresso, mascarpone cheese, and sugar to create a decadent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and instant coffee powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
4. Add the softened butter and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None needed! This filling is ready to use straight away.
White Chocolate Cannoli Filling
This creamy filling combines sweet white chocolate with a hint of vanilla and lemon zest to create a unique and delicious treat. Perfect for cannoli shells or as a topping for cakes and cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and white chocolate chips. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the softened butter until fully incorporated.
3. Add the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Allow the filling to cool to room temperature before using or storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caramelized Banana Cannoli Filling
Transform ripe bananas into a sweet and indulgent filling perfect for cannoli shells or other desserts. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of caramel, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the bananas into 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Sprinkle the sugar over the bananas, then dot with butter.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bananas are caramelized and tender.
5. Remove from oven and stir in heavy cream and salt.
6. Let cool to room temperature before using as cannoli filling.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Cannoli Filling
A creamy and nutty twist on traditional cannoli filling, this peanut butter version is a perfect treat for those who love the combination of peanut butter and pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped until stiff peaks form
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the salt and mix well.
3. Fold in the whipped heavy cream until fully incorporated.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake filling!
Summary
Indulge in the creamy goodness of cannoli fillings with these 18 delicious recipes! From classic ricotta to innovative flavor combinations, each recipe offers a unique twist on the traditional Italian dessert. Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet treat or orange zest for a burst of citrus flavor. Other options include pistachio, lemon, vanilla bean, amaretto, cinnamon spice, honey walnut, raspberry swirl, coconut cream, espresso chocolate, maple pecan, cherry almond, tiramisu-inspired, white chocolate, caramelized banana, and peanut butter. Treat yourself to a world of creamy cannoli delights!
Leave a Reply