When it comes to Sicilian pastries, few treats are as beloved as the classic cannoli. These crispy shells filled with sweet and creamy goodness have been delighting palates for centuries. But why stick to just one flavor when you can try a variety? In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes for creamy cannoli fillings that will take your dessert game to the next level. From classic ricotta to chocolate chip, pistachio to lemon zest, and everything in between, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in these sweet treats. Your taste buds will thank you!
Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling
This iconic Italian dessert filling is a staple of Sicilian cuisine, consisting of sweetened and flavored ricotta cheese, perfect for stuffing into crispy cannoli shells. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying the authentic taste of Italy in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped candied citron (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. If desired, stir in the chopped candied citron for added flavor and texture.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. When ready to assemble the cannoli, simply pipe or spoon the filling into the shells.
Cooking Time:
– None! This filling is best served chilled, so keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy.
Chocolate Chip Cannoli Filling
Sweeten your cannoli with this decadent chocolate chip filling. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe is easy to make and adds a delicious twist to the classic Italian treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add softened butter to the mixture and whip until smooth.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Fold melted chocolate into the whipped cream mixture until well combined.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Pistachio Cannoli Filling
Transform your cannoli into a creamy, nutty masterpiece with this simple and delicious pistachio filling recipe. Perfect for Italian-inspired desserts or as a unique treat.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups heavy cream, whipped until stiff peaks form
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Fold in the whipped heavy cream until well combined.
3. Stir in chopped pistachios and vanilla extract.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Lemon Zest Cannoli Filling
This sweet and tangy filling is a perfect match for crispy cannoli shells. A burst of citrus flavor from the lemon zest adds a delightful twist to this classic Italian treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the mixture. 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. Once chilled, 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.
Orange Blossom Cannoli Filling
Orange Blossom Cannoli Filling Recipe: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Italian Dessert
Combine the sweet and tangy flavors of orange blossom water with the classic creaminess of cannoli filling for a unique dessert experience. This recipe yields a fragrant and creamy filling perfect for stuffing into crispy shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the orange blossom water, vanilla extract, and salt. Whip until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of orange blossom water to your taste.
– Use high-quality orange blossom water for a more intense flavor.
– This filling is best consumed within 3 days of making.
Vanilla Bean Cannoli Filling
Add a touch of elegance to your cannoli-making with this simple yet flavorful vanilla bean filling recipe. Perfect for filling shells or using as a topping, this sweet treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and salt until well combined.
2. Add softened butter to the bowl and whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add milk while whisking until the mixture reaches your desired consistency (thicker or thinner).
4. Stir in vanilla extract and bean paste (or scrape the seeds from the split vanilla bean into the mixture).
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time:
– None required! This filling is best served chilled, so refrigerate until ready to use.
Amaretto Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this decadent Amaretto filling, perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat. This creamy concoction combines the richness of sweetened condensed milk with the bold flavor of amaretto liqueur.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and softened butter until smooth.
3. Add the vanilla extract and Amaretto liqueur to the sweetened condensed milk mixture; whisk until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the sweetened condensed milk mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Espresso Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this rich and decadent espresso-infused filling. Perfect for coffee lovers, this recipe combines the bold flavors of espresso with sweetened whipped cream and chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 shots of strong espresso (cooled)
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the cooled espresso, cocoa powder, and salt to the whipped cream. Mix until well combined.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the espresso-infused whipped cream until fully incorporated.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Cinnamon Spice Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this sweet and spicy filling that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the richness of sweetened ricotta cheese. Perfect for topping cannoli shells or using as a dip for fruit or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add heavy cream and melted butter to the ricotta mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Honey Walnut Cannoli Filling
A sweet and nutty twist on traditional cannoli filling, this recipe combines the richness of honey with the crunch of walnuts for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 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 honey, walnuts, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. When ready to fill cannoli shells, give the mixture a good stir and spoon into shells.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled filling.
Raspberry Swirl Cannoli Filling
Elevate your cannoli game with this sweet and tangy raspberry swirl filling. Perfect for a dessert that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons raspberry jam
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until combined.
3. Stir in the raspberry jam, confectioners’ sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Fold in the pureed raspberries until well combined.
5. Spoon or pipe the filling into cooled cannoli shells.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is ready to use immediately.
Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli Filling
Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli Filling Recipe
This creamy filling combines the classic Italian flavors of tiramisu with the crispy, sweet shell of cannoli. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
3. Stir in cooled coffee and chopped hazelnuts (if using).
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Fill cannoli shells just before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Note: This filling can be made ahead of time, but it’s best consumed within a day or two for optimal flavor and texture.
Coconut Cream Cannoli Filling
A creamy and tropical twist on the classic cannoli filling, this recipe combines sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream and a hint of vanilla for a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add in the shredded coconut and whisk until well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Maple Pecan Cannoli Filling
This sweet and nutty filling combines the richness of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans, perfect for filling cannoli shells or using as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine maple syrup, chopped pecans, and heavy cream.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the filling has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract.
5. Let the filling cool to room temperature before using.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cherry Almond Cannoli Filling
Sweeten your cannoli game with this luscious filling, combining the tartness of cherries and the nutty goodness of almonds. Perfect for a festive dessert or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the cherries are tender (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat; stir in almond extract and confectioners’ sugar until combined.
4. Fold in sliced almonds and softened butter until well mixed.
5. Let cool to room temperature before using as cannoli filling.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Chocolate Cannoli Filling
This sweet and creamy filling is a perfect match for crispy cannoli shells. Whip up this easy recipe to create a delicious treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and continue whipping until smooth.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Fold the melted white chocolate into the whipped cream mixture until well combined.
5. Add the vanilla extract and salt; fold to combine.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: About 1 cup of filling, enough for 8-10 cannoli shells.
Peanut Butter Cannoli Filling
Get ready to elevate your cannoli game with this creamy and nutty filling. Made with peanut butter, chocolate chips, and a hint of vanilla, this recipe is a perfect combination for anyone who loves the classic flavors of peanut butter cups.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler.
4. Fold melted chocolate into peanut butter mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Season with a pinch of salt to balance flavors.
Cooking Time: None! This filling is ready to use immediately. Simply fill cannoli shells and serve.
Caramelized Banana Cannoli Filling
Transform ordinary bananas into a rich, caramel-like filling perfect for cannoli shells or other dessert applications. This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of ripe bananas paired with a deep, golden caramel flavor.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the bananas into 1-inch pieces and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the banana slices, then dot with butter.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bananas are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and stir in heavy cream to create a smooth, creamy filling.
6. Allow the filling to cool before using.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious world of cannoli fillings! This article presents 18 creamy recipes that will elevate your pastry game. From classic ricotta to chocolate chip, pistachio, lemon zest, and many more unique flavors, these mouthwatering fillings are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Italian treat or a modern twist on the classic cannoli, this collection of recipes has got you covered. So go ahead, get creative, and fill those shells with your new favorite flavor!