18 Delicious Cannolis Fillings Recipes for Sweet Lovers

Desserts and Baking

Calling all sweet lovers! If you’re obsessed with the crispy shells and creamy fillings of cannolis, you’re in for a treat. We’ve rounded up 18 Delicious Cannoli Fillings Recipes that will take your dessert game to the next level. From classic ricotta to inventive chocolate-infused variations, there’s a filling here for every palate. Ready to dive into a world of sweet, creamy goodness? Let’s get started!

Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling

Classic Ricotta Cannoli Filling

Ready to whip up something sweet and satisfying? Classic ricotta cannoli filling is your go-to for a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s easier to make than you think.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
  • Powdered sugar – ½ cup
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • 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 bowl, combine the drained ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
  3. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
  4. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently with a spatula until evenly distributed.
  5. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip for easy filling of cannoli shells.
  6. Pipe the filling into prepared cannoli shells, starting from one end and moving to the other.
  7. Dust the filled cannoli with additional powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Best enjoyed fresh, this filling is luxuriously smooth with a hint of vanilla and bursts of chocolate. Try serving them with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for added crunch.

Chocolate Chip Cannoli Filling

Chocolate Chip Cannoli Filling

Alright, you’re in for a treat with this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Filling—it’s like your favorite cannoli got a chocolatey upgrade that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
  • Powdered sugar – ½ cup
  • Mini chocolate chips – 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 vanilla extract to the mixture and stir well to incorporate.
  3. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the filling.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Once chilled, give the filling a quick stir before using it to fill your cannoli shells.

This filling is creamy with a perfect balance of sweetness and a delightful crunch from the chocolate chips. Try piping it into mini cannoli shells for a bite-sized dessert that’s sure to impress.

Pistachio Cannoli Filling

Pistachio Cannoli Filling

Wow, you’re going to love this Pistachio Cannoli Filling—it’s creamy, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet. Perfect for stuffing into cannoli shells or even spreading on toast for a quick treat.

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 finely chopped pistachios and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Tip: Chilling also thickens the filling, making it easier to pipe.
  4. Once chilled, give the filling a quick stir before using. Tip: For extra smoothness, you can blend the mixture for a few seconds with a hand mixer.
  5. Use a piping bag to fill cannoli shells or simply spoon the filling into them. Tip: For a decorative touch, dip the ends of the filled cannoli in additional chopped pistachios.

Kick back and enjoy the creamy texture and rich pistachio flavor of this filling. It’s also fantastic layered between cookies or as a dip for fresh fruit.

Lemon Zest Cannoli Filling

Lemon Zest Cannoli Filling

Alright, let’s dive into making this zesty Lemon Zest Cannoli Filling that’ll brighten up any dessert table. It’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
  • Powdered sugar – ¾ cup
  • Lemon zest – 2 tbsp
  • 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 large mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar, lemon zest, 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 lemon zest if needed. Tip: For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of zest.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes before using. Tip: Chilling the filling helps it thicken and makes it easier to pipe into cannoli shells.

Bright and lemony, this filling is perfect for stuffing cannoli shells or even spreading between layers of a cake. The texture is luxuriously smooth, with little bursts of lemon zest for a fresh twist.

Orange Blossom Cannoli Filling

Orange Blossom Cannoli Filling

Believe it or not, this Orange Blossom Cannoli Filling is as easy to make as it is delicious. You’ll love the fresh, citrusy twist it adds to the classic cannoli.

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 the flavor evenly.
  3. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to avoid crushing them.
  4. Let the filling chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before using. This helps the flavors meld together.
  5. Once chilled, fill your cannoli shells just before serving to keep them crisp.

Rich and creamy with a hint of floral orange, this filling is a game-changer. Try it with a sprinkle of orange zest on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Vanilla Bean Cannoli Filling

Vanilla Bean Cannoli Filling

Hey, you’re going to love this Vanilla Bean Cannoli Filling—it’s creamy, dreamy, and just the right amount of sweet. Perfect for stuffing into shells or even spooning over fresh fruit.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
  • Powdered sugar – ½ cup
  • Vanilla bean – 1
  • 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. 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. Mix until smooth.
  4. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to distribute evenly throughout the filling.
  5. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before using to allow the flavors to meld.

This filling is luxuriously smooth with little bursts of chocolate in every bite. Try piping it into cannoli shells just before serving to keep them crisp, or layer it with berries for a quick dessert parfait.

Amaretto Cannoli Filling

Amaretto Cannoli Filling

Did you know that amaretto cannoli filling can turn your dessert into a showstopper? It’s creamy, slightly nutty, and just the right amount of sweet. Perfect for when you’re craving something indulgent but easy to make.

Ingredients

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

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 large mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar and amaretto liqueur.
  3. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through to ensure everything is well combined.
  4. Fold in the mini chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed. Tip: For a smoother filling, you can pulse the chocolate chips in a food processor before adding them.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes before using. Tip: This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Just imagine the creamy texture with little bursts of chocolate and a hint of almond from the amaretto. Try piping this filling into cannoli shells right before serving for that perfect crunch and cream combo.

Mascarpone Cannoli Filling

Mascarpone Cannoli Filling

Unbelievably creamy and just the right amount of sweet, this mascarpone cannoli filling is a game-changer for your dessert table. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, turning any shell into a showstopper.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and powdered sugar. Tip: Ensure the mascarpone is at room temperature for smoother blending.
  2. Add the vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to distribute them evenly without overmixing. Tip: Reserve a few chocolate chips to sprinkle on top for garnish.
  4. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for easy filling of cannoli shells. Tip: If the filling is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before piping.
  5. Pipe the filling into prepared cannoli shells, filling from both ends to the center for even distribution.

Creamy with a slight tang from the mascarpone, this filling pairs perfectly with the crunch of cannoli shells. Try dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.

Espresso Cannoli Filling

Espresso Cannoli Filling

Think you’ve seen all cannoli fillings can offer? This espresso-infused twist will surprise your taste buds with its rich, creamy texture and a bold coffee kick.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
  • Powdered sugar – ½ cup
  • Espresso powder – 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 espresso powder to the mixture. Stir well to ensure the coffee flavor is evenly distributed.
  3. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to keep them whole for a bit of crunch in every bite.
  4. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before using. This helps it thicken and makes it easier to pipe.
  5. Once chilled, fill your cannoli shells using a piping bag for a neat, professional look.

Delightfully creamy with a punch of espresso, this filling turns traditional cannoli into a coffee lover’s dream. Try dusting the finished cannoli with cocoa powder for an extra layer of flavor.

Hazelnut Cannoli Filling

Hazelnut Cannoli Filling

Very few things beat the joy of biting into a crispy cannoli shell filled with a creamy, nutty delight. Today, let’s dive into making a hazelnut cannoli filling that’s surprisingly simple yet irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
  • Powdered sugar – ½ cup
  • Hazelnuts – ½ 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 finely chopped hazelnuts and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
  3. Let the filling chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to thicken. This step is crucial for the perfect consistency.
  4. Once chilled, fill a piping bag with the hazelnut mixture. No piping bag? A zip-top bag with a corner snipped off works just as well.
  5. Pipe the filling into prepared cannoli shells just before serving to keep them crisp.

Creamy with a delightful crunch from the hazelnuts, this filling is a game-changer for your cannoli. Try dusting the finished cannoli with powdered sugar or drizzling them with melted chocolate for an extra touch of decadence.

Cinnamon Spice Cannoli Filling

Cinnamon Spice Cannoli Filling

Think about the last time you craved something sweet but not too heavy. This cinnamon spice cannoli filling hits that perfect spot, blending warmth and sweetness in every bite.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
  2. Add the cinnamon and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
  3. Let the filling 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.

With its creamy texture and a hint of spice, this filling is a game-changer for your dessert table. Try piping it into mini cannoli shells for a bite-sized treat at your next gathering.

Raspberry Swirl Cannoli Filling

Raspberry Swirl Cannoli Filling

Back in the day, cannoli filling was all about ricotta and chocolate chips. But why not shake things up with a fruity twist? This Raspberry Swirl Cannoli Filling is your ticket to a dessert that’s both classic and refreshingly new.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
  • Powdered sugar – ½ cup
  • Raspberry jam – ¼ cup
  • 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. Stir well to incorporate.
  3. Gently fold in the raspberry jam, creating swirls rather than fully mixing it in for a marbled effect.
  4. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before using. This helps it thicken.
  5. Once chilled, fill your cannoli shells using a piping bag for a neat finish. Tip: For extra flair, dip the ends of the filled cannoli in crushed pistachios or mini chocolate chips.
  6. Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Tip: If you’re not serving right away, store the filling and shells separately to prevent sogginess.

Rich with the creamy texture of ricotta and the tangy sweetness of raspberry, this filling is a game-changer. Try it with a drizzle of dark chocolate for an extra decadent touch.

Blueberry Lemon Cannoli Filling

Blueberry Lemon Cannoli Filling

Unbelievably easy and delicious, this Blueberry Lemon Cannoli Filling is your next go-to for a sweet twist on the classic. You’ll love the fresh, tangy flavors mixed into a creamy, dreamy filling.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
  • Powdered sugar – ¼ cup
  • Lemon zest – 1 tbsp
  • Blueberries – 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 lemon zest and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir well to incorporate.
  3. Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them too much for a burst of flavor in every bite.
  4. Let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Once chilled, your Blueberry Lemon Cannoli Filling is ready to be piped into cannoli shells or used as a dip for fruit.

So creamy with a perfect balance of sweet and tart, this filling is versatile. Try it sandwiched between cookies or as a topping for pancakes for a delightful breakfast treat.

Strawberry Cheesecake Cannoli Filling

Strawberry Cheesecake Cannoli Filling

Strawberry cheesecake cannoli filling is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this decadent treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • Cream cheese – 8 oz
  • Powdered sugar – 1 cup
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Strawberry jam – ½ cup
  • Heavy cream – ½ cup

Instructions

  1. Beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix until fully combined.
  3. Fold in the strawberry jam gently to create a swirl effect, not fully mixing it in.
  4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes.
  5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep it light and fluffy.
  6. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before using to allow it to set.

Absolutely creamy with a hint of strawberry, this filling is a dream inside cannoli shells. Try it as a dip for fresh fruit or spread between layers of a cake for an extra special dessert.

Peanut Butter Cannoli Filling

Peanut Butter Cannoli Filling

You’ve probably had cannoli a hundred times, but peanut butter cannoli filling? That’s a game-changer. It’s creamy, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
  • Powdered sugar – ½ cup
  • Peanut butter – ¼ cup
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Mini chocolate chips – ¼ 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 cheese, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract.
  3. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  4. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently with a spatula until evenly distributed.
  5. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for easy filling of cannoli shells.
  6. Pipe the filling into prepared cannoli shells, filling from both ends to the middle.
  7. Dust the filled cannoli with additional powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

So rich and fluffy, this peanut butter cannoli filling is a dream. Try it with a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for an extra decadent touch.

Coconut Cream Cannoli Filling

Coconut Cream Cannoli Filling

Just when you thought cannoli couldn’t get any better, here comes a twist that’ll make your taste buds dance. Coconut cream cannoli filling is your ticket to a tropical dessert paradise, blending the classic Italian treat with a hint of island flair.

Ingredients

  • Heavy cream – 1 cup
  • Powdered sugar – ½ cup
  • Coconut extract – 1 tsp
  • Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
  • Shredded coconut – ¼ cup

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes.
  2. Gently fold in the powdered sugar and coconut extract until fully combined.
  3. Add the ricotta cheese to the mixture, folding gently to maintain the airy texture.
  4. Sprinkle in the shredded coconut, folding just enough to distribute it evenly throughout the filling.
  5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the filling set.
  6. Once chilled, pipe the filling into prepared cannoli shells using a pastry bag for a professional touch.

Kind of magical how this filling turns out, isn’t it? The texture is luxuriously creamy with a subtle crunch from the coconut, offering a perfect contrast to the crispy shell. Try serving these cannoli with a drizzle of dark chocolate and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra decadent touch.

Tiramisu Cannoli Filling

Tiramisu Cannoli Filling

Who knew combining two Italian classics could be this easy and delicious? You’re about to make a Tiramisu Cannoli Filling that’ll steal the show at any gathering.

Ingredients

  • Mascarpone cheese – 1 cup
  • Heavy cream – ½ cup
  • Sugar – ¼ cup
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Espresso – 2 tbsp
  • Cocoa powder – for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
  2. Add the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat until the mixture is fluffy and holds stiff peaks.
  3. Gently fold in the espresso until just combined. Tip: Don’t overmix to keep the filling light.
  4. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Tip: Chill the filling for 30 minutes before piping for easier handling.
  5. Pipe the filling into cannoli shells or use as a dip for ladyfingers. Tip: For an extra coffee kick, dip the ladyfingers in espresso before serving.
  6. Dust the top with cocoa powder right before serving.

Out of this world creamy with a perfect coffee balance, this filling is a game-changer. Try layering it with fresh berries for a colorful twist.

Maple Walnut Cannoli Filling

Maple Walnut Cannoli Filling

Perfect for when you’re craving something sweet but not overly complicated, this Maple Walnut Cannoli Filling is a game-changer. You’ll love how the rich maple and crunchy walnuts come together in this creamy delight.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and maple syrup. Mix until smooth.
  2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  3. Fold in the chopped walnuts gently to maintain their crunch.
  4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
  5. Once chilled, fill your cannoli shells with the mixture using a piping bag for a neat finish.

Velvety smooth with a delightful crunch, this filling is a dream inside crispy cannoli shells. Try drizzling extra maple syrup on top for an added touch of sweetness.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 delicious cannoli fillings has inspired your next sweet adventure! Whether you’re a traditionalist or love to experiment, there’s a recipe here for every palate. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin your must-makes on Pinterest. Happy baking, sweet lovers!

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