17 Delicious Cannoli Filling Recipes Creative

Craving something sweet and irresistibly creamy? You’re in for a treat! Our roundup of 17 Delicious Cannoli Filling Recipes is here to inspire your next dessert adventure. From classic ricotta to innovative twists that’ll surprise your taste buds, these fillings are perfect for home cooks looking to add a little Italian flair to their baking. Dive in and discover your new favorite way to enjoy cannoli!

Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling

Kicking off your cannoli filling journey is easier than you think, and oh-so-rewarding. Let’s dive into making that creamy, dreamy ricotta filling that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
• Powdered sugar – ¾ cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Mini chocolate chips – ½ cup

Instructions

1. Drain the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl for 1 hour to remove excess moisture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Once chilled, your cannoli filling is ready to be piped into shells. Use a piping bag with a star tip for a professional touch.

Rich and creamy with little bursts of chocolate, this filling is the heart of the cannoli. Try serving it with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.

Chocolate Chip Cannoli Filling

Guess what? You’re about to make your desserts way more exciting with this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Filling. It’s creamy, dreamy, and packed with little chocolate surprises.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Powdered sugar – ¼ cup
• Mini chocolate chips – ½ cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Place the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl. Let it drain in the fridge for 1 hour to remove excess moisture.
2. Transfer the drained ricotta to a mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Beat the mixture on medium speed with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
4. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed.
5. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.

Zesty and sweet, this filling is perfect for stuffing cannoli shells or even as a dip for fruit. The texture is luxuriously smooth with a delightful crunch from the chocolate chips. Try spreading it between layers of cake for an unexpected twist!

Pistachio Cannoli Filling

Craving something sweet with a nutty twist? You’ve got to try this pistachio cannoli filling—it’s creamy, dreamy, and just the right amount of indulgent.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Powdered sugar – ½ cup
• Pistachios – ¼ cup, finely chopped
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring well to incorporate.
3. Fold in the finely chopped pistachios gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before using to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Once chilled, fill your cannoli shells with the pistachio mixture using a piping bag or a spoon.

Filled with rich flavors and a delightful crunch from the pistachios, this cannoli filling is a game-changer. Serve it immediately for the best texture, or get creative by drizzling with melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.

Lemon Zest Cannoli Filling

Brighten up your dessert game with this zesty twist on classic cannoli filling. It’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
• Powdered sugar – 1 cup
• Lemon zest – 2 tbsp
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the lemon zest and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. For the best flavor, let the filling chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before using.
4. Once chilled, fill your cannoli shells immediately before serving to keep them crisp.

Fresh and vibrant, this lemon zest cannoli filling brings a delightful citrus punch to the creamy richness of traditional ricotta. Try garnishing with extra lemon zest or a drizzle of dark chocolate for an extra special touch.

Orange Blossom Cannoli Filling

You’ve probably had cannoli before, but have you tried them with a twist of orange blossom? It’s a game-changer.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
• Powdered sugar – ½ cup
• Orange blossom water – 1 tbsp
• Mini chocolate chips – ¼ cup

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the orange blossom water to the mixture. Stir well to incorporate.
3. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
4. Let the filling chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. This makes it easier to pipe.
5. Once chilled, fill a piping bag with the cannoli filling. If you don’t have a piping bag, a plastic bag with the corner snipped off works just fine.
6. Pipe the filling into prepared cannoli shells, filling from both ends for even distribution.
7. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. For the best texture, enjoy within a few hours of filling.

Silky smooth with a hint of floral from the orange blossom, this filling is a delightful departure from the classic. Try dusting the finished cannoli with powdered sugar and a sprinkle of orange zest for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Amaretto Flavored Cannoli Filling

Perfect for those who love a boozy twist on classic desserts, this Amaretto Flavored Cannoli Filling is a game-changer. You’ll love how the almond-flavored liqueur elevates the creamy ricotta filling.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
• Powdered sugar – ½ cup
• Amaretto – 2 tbsp
• Mini chocolate chips – ¼ cup

Instructions

1. Drain the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl for 1 hour to remove excess moisture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the Amaretto to the ricotta mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
4. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to distribute them evenly throughout the filling.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Velvety smooth with a hint of almond warmth, this filling is a dream inside crispy cannoli shells. Try dusting the finished cannoli with powdered sugar and a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.

Vanilla Bean Cannoli Filling

Ready to whip up something sweet and satisfying? This vanilla bean cannoli filling is your ticket to a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
• Powdered sugar – ½ cup
• Vanilla bean – 1

Instructions

1. Drain the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl for 1 hour to remove excess moisture.
2. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with the back of a knife.
3. In a large bowl, combine the drained ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean seeds.
4. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, until smooth and creamy. Tip: For extra fluffiness, let the mixer run an additional 30 seconds.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. Tip: This step is crucial for the perfect texture, so don’t skip it!
6. Before using, give the filling a quick stir to ensure it’s smooth. Tip: If the filling seems too thick, a teaspoon of milk can loosen it up without thinning it out too much.

Kick your dessert game up a notch with this filling. Its velvety texture and rich vanilla flavor make it perfect for stuffing cannoli shells, but don’t stop there—try it as a dip for fresh fruit or a layer in your next cake.

Cinnamon Spiced Cannoli Filling

Wow, have you ever craved something sweet but not too heavy? This cinnamon spiced cannoli filling is your answer. It’s creamy, subtly spiced, and perfect for dipping or stuffing.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Powdered sugar – ½ cup
• Cinnamon – 1 tsp
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Place the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl. Let it drain in the refrigerator for 1 hour to remove excess moisture.
2. Transfer the drained ricotta to a mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
3. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
4. Taste the filling and adjust the sweetness or spice level if needed, but remember, the flavors will meld and intensify slightly after chilling.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 2 hours before using. Tip: This step is crucial for the flavors to develop fully.
6. Once chilled, give the filling a quick stir to fluff it up before using. Tip: For an extra smooth texture, you can blend it again for 30 seconds.

Creamy with a hint of warmth from the cinnamon, this filling is versatile. Try it in cannoli shells, as a dip for fruit, or even spread on toast for a sweet breakfast treat.

Honey Walnut Cannoli Filling

Unbelievably easy to whip up, this Honey Walnut Cannoli Filling is your next go-to for a sweet, crunchy twist on the classic. You’ll love how the honey adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the earthy walnuts.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Powdered sugar – ¼ cup
• Honey – 2 tbsp
• Chopped walnuts – ½ cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the honey, chopped walnuts, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Once chilled, give the filling a quick stir before using it to fill your cannoli shells.
5. For an extra crunch, toast the walnuts at 350°F for 5 minutes before chopping and adding them to the filling.
6. If the filling is too thick, a splash of milk can help achieve your desired consistency.
7. For a smoother texture, blend the ricotta cheese before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Every bite of this filling offers a delightful contrast between the creamy ricotta and the crunchy walnuts, with the honey bringing a subtle sweetness that’s not overpowering. Try serving it in mini cannoli shells for a bite-sized treat at your next gathering.

Espresso Infused Cannoli Filling

Espresso infused cannoli filling is the perfect pick-me-up for any coffee lover. You’ll love the rich, creamy texture with that bold espresso kick.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
• Powdered sugar – 1 cup
• Espresso powder – 1 tbsp
• Mini chocolate chips – ½ cup

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the espresso powder to the mixture. Stir well to ensure it’s fully incorporated.
3. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to distribute them evenly throughout the filling.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
5. Once chilled, give the filling a quick stir before using it to fill your cannoli shells.

One bite of this espresso infused cannoli filling and you’ll be hooked. The creamy ricotta pairs perfectly with the deep espresso flavor, while the chocolate chips add a delightful crunch. Try serving these cannoli with a dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.

Raspberry Swirl Cannoli Filling

Wow, have you ever wanted to jazz up your cannoli game? This raspberry swirl cannoli filling is your ticket to a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Powdered sugar – ¼ cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Raspberry jam – 3 tbsp

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Gently fold in the raspberry jam, creating a swirl effect without fully mixing it in.
3. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before using.
4. Fill your cannoli shells just before serving to keep them crisp.

Great texture meets great taste in this filling—creamy with a sweet-tart raspberry swirl. Try piping it into mini cannoli shells for a bite-sized treat at your next gathering.

Dark Chocolate Cannoli Filling

Craving something sweet and indulgent? This dark chocolate cannoli filling is your go-to for a rich, creamy treat that’s surprisingly easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Dark chocolate chips – ½ cup
• Powdered sugar – ¼ cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Place the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl. Let it drain in the refrigerator for 1 hour to remove excess moisture.
2. Transfer the drained ricotta to a mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the ricotta mixture until fully combined and no streaks remain.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before using to allow the flavors to meld.

Zesty and rich, this filling pairs perfectly with crisp cannoli shells. For a twist, try spreading it between layers of cake or as a dip for fresh fruit.

White Chocolate and Cherry Cannoli Filling

Craving something sweet and indulgent? You’re in for a treat with this white chocolate and cherry cannoli filling—it’s creamy, dreamy, and packed with bursts of cherry goodness.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• White chocolate chips – ½ cup
• Maraschino cherries – ¼ cup, chopped
• Powdered sugar – ¼ cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted.
3. Fold the melted white chocolate into the ricotta mixture until well combined.
4. Add the chopped maraschino cherries and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring gently to distribute evenly.
5. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to thicken before using.

Zero effort for maximum flavor—this filling is luxuriously smooth with a delightful crunch from the cherries. Try piping it into cannoli shells for a classic treat or spread it between layers of cake for an unexpected twist.

Maple Pecan Cannoli Filling

You’re going to love this Maple Pecan Cannoli Filling—it’s sweet, nutty, and ridiculously easy to whip up. Perfect for when you’re craving something decadent but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Maple syrup – ¼ cup
• Powdered sugar – ½ cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Chopped pecans – ½ cup

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, maple syrup, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Tip: For a smoother filling, sieve the ricotta before mixing.
2. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, until creamy and well combined. Tip: Don’t overmix, or the filling can become too runny.
3. Fold in the chopped pecans gently with a spatula. Tip: Toast the pecans beforehand for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Keep this filling chilled until you’re ready to fill your cannoli shells. The texture is luxuriously creamy with a delightful crunch from the pecans, and the maple syrup adds a warm, autumnal sweetness. Try serving it with a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

Coconut Lime Cannoli Filling

Oh, you’re going to love this twist on a classic! Coconut lime cannoli filling is creamy, zesty, and just the right amount of sweet. Perfect for when you want something a little different but still totally comforting.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Powdered sugar – ½ cup
• Coconut flakes – ¼ cup
• Lime zest – 1 tbsp
• Lime juice – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the coconut flakes, lime zest, and lime juice to the bowl. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
3. Let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Once chilled, give the filling a quick stir before using it to fill your cannoli shells.
5. For an extra touch, toast the coconut flakes before adding them to the mixture for a deeper flavor.
6. If the filling is too thick, a splash of heavy cream can loosen it up to your desired consistency.
7. Always taste as you go, adjusting the lime or sugar to suit your preference.

Great for a summer dessert, this filling is light yet rich with a tropical flair. The coconut adds a lovely texture, while the lime brings a refreshing zing. Try serving it in mini cannoli shells for a bite-sized treat at your next gathering.

Tiramisu Inspired Cannoli Filling

Perfect for when you’re craving something sweet but can’t decide between tiramisu and cannoli, this filling blends the best of both worlds. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, and it’s sure to impress at your next gathering.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Mascarpone cheese – ½ cup
• Powdered sugar – ¼ cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Espresso – 2 tbsp
• Cocoa powder – for dusting

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta and mascarpone cheeses. Use a hand mixer to blend until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Gently fold in the espresso with a spatula, ensuring it’s evenly distributed without overmixing.
4. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a decorative touch.
5. Pipe the filling into cannoli shells or use it as a dip for ladyfingers. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Unbelievably creamy with a hint of coffee, this filling is a game-changer for dessert lovers. Try layering it with ladyfingers for a quick tiramisu twist or enjoy it straight from the spoon—no judgment here.

Caramel Apple Cannoli Filling

Got a sweet tooth and love experimenting with desserts? You’re going to adore this Caramel Apple Cannoli Filling—it’s like fall in a bite, but honestly, it’s delicious any time of year.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
• Powdered sugar – ¼ cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Caramel sauce – ½ cup
• Apple – 1, finely diced
• Cinnamon – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Tip: For extra creaminess, let the ricotta sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before mixing.
2. Fold in the caramel sauce gently to create a swirl effect. Tip: Don’t overmix to keep those beautiful caramel streaks.
3. Add the finely diced apple and cinnamon to the mixture, stirring just until combined. Tip: For the best texture, use a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp.
4. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before using. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Perfect for filling cannoli shells or even as a dip for apple slices, this filling is creamy with a delightful crunch from the apples. The caramel adds a rich sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the subtle spice of cinnamon.

Conclusion

Here’s a treasure trove of inspiration for your next dessert adventure! These 17 delicious cannoli filling recipes offer a world of flavors to explore, from classic to creative twists. We hope you’ll try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and spread the sweetness by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy baking!