The moment I took my first bite of these Cannoli Cupcakes, I was transported to a quaint Italian café, where the aroma of freshly baked treats filled the air. Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy vanilla cake, only to discover a surprise filling of creamy, rich cannoli goodness. This delightful spin on the traditional Italian dessert effortlessly merges the nostalgia of classic flavors with the fun of a cupcake, making them a perfect treat for any gathering.
After stumbling upon the perfect recipe, I knew I had to share this decadent creation with you. These Cannoli Cupcakes are easy to make and infinitely versatile; they will dazzle your guests whether at a sunny brunch or an evening get-together. The best part? You won’t be spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats that are guaranteed to impress! Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the magic of combining two beloved desserts into one unforgettable bite.
Why Are Cannoli Cupcakes So Irresistible?
Decadent flavor: These Cannoli Cupcakes blend classic Italian richness with a cupcake format, offering a luscious surprise in every bite.
Effortless creation: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can impress your friends without spending all day in the kitchen.
Versatile option: Whether for a brunch or a dinner party, these cupcakes suit any occasion, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Texture delight: Experience the perfect balance of fluffy cake and creamy filling, making every mouthful a textural dream!
A twist on tradition: This innovative take retains the essence of beloved cannoli while inviting new fans with its fun presentation.
For even more delightful desserts, check out our scrumptious Italian dessert recipes.
The Ingredients for Cannoli Cupcakes
For the Cupcakes
• Vanilla cake mix – This serves as the base sweetness and structure; consider switching to homemade vanilla cake for a richer flavor.
• Butter (1/2 cup, softened) – Adds moisture and richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
For the Cannoli Filling
• Cream cheese (8-oz. block, softened) – Provides creaminess in the filling; substitute with mascarpone for an authentic cannoli taste.
• Whole milk ricotta (1/2 cup) – A key component that lends a creamy texture; make sure it’s well-drained to keep cupcakes from getting soggy.
• Powdered sugar (3 cups) – Sweetens the filling; adjust to taste for your preferred sweetness.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor complexity; opt for high-quality extract for the best taste.
• Ground cinnamon (1/4 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth; this is optional but recommended for a classic cannoli flavor.
• Kosher salt (1/4 tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; be sure not to omit this essential ingredient.
• Mini chocolate chips (1/3 cup) – Interspersed in the filling for texture; feel free to use dark chocolate chips for added richness.
For Topping (Optional)
• Chocolate chips (1 cup) – Perfect for topping or adding additional richness; can be skipped for a simpler look.
• Coconut oil (2 Tbsp) – Used for non-stick preparation; you can substitute this with vegetable oil if preferred.
Now that you have all the delicious ingredients for your Cannoli Cupcakes, let’s get baking and create something truly special!
How to Make Cannoli Cupcakes
Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions, incorporating softened butter for enhanced flavor. This step brings a moist and tender crumb to your cupcakes.
Bake the cupcakes in a preheated oven at 350°F until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, approximately 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Cool the cupcakes completely on a wire rack. Patience is key here; allowing them to cool properly ensures your filling will stay put and not melt into the cake.
Beat together the cream cheese, ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This forms your luscious cannoli filling.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently. This adds delightful pockets of chocolatey goodness to every bite!
Core the cooled cupcakes using a cupcake corer or a small knife, creating a well in the center. Fill each cupcake generously with the cannoli mixture, then top with a sprinkle of chocolate chips for that final touch.
Optional: Drizzle with some chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cannoli Cupcakes
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and a better final texture.
Don’t Overmix: To maintain fluffy cupcakes, mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough cupcakes.
Prevent Soggy Cups: Drain the ricotta well before mixing; excess moisture can make the cupcakes soggy.
Storage Solutions: Keep leftover cannoli filling in the fridge for up to one week to maintain freshness, and use in future treats or on toast!
Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with flavors by adding candied citrus peel or swapping chocolate chips for nuts in the filling for a unique twist on your cannoli cupcakes.
Cannoli Cupcakes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these Cannoli Cupcakes with delightful twists and substitutions!
Mascarpone Swap: Replace ricotta with mascarpone for a richer, creamier filling that captures authentic cannoli essence.
Citrus Zest Kick: Add grated lemon or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing zing that beautifully complements the sweetness.
Cake Mix Variations: Use chocolate or red velvet cake mixes instead of vanilla to offer exciting flavor profiles and stunning visuals.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped pistachios or walnuts into the filling for a delightful crunch that elevates texture and flavor.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a dash of nutmeg with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth and cozy flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Utilize dairy-free cream cheese and cashew ricotta for a vegan-friendly twist that still delivers indulgent deliciousness.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cupcakes prior to serving for an extra layer of richness and visual appeal.
Berry Bliss: Fold in crushed raspberries or strawberries into your filling for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with the creamy components.
Transform your Cannoli Cupcakes into a personal masterpiece with these enticing variations and substitutions! Enjoy the delicious journey of flavors.
What to Serve with Cannoli Cupcakes?
Indulging in Cannoli Cupcakes is like taking a flavorful journey through Italian heritage, making it essential to pair them with complementary sides and drinks.
Rich Espresso: A cup of bold espresso enhances the cupcake’s creaminess, creating a perfect sweet and bitter balance. It’s the ultimate Italian pairing that elevates your dessert experience.
Fresh Berries: Light and juicy berries such as strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich cannoli filling, brightening each bite.
Creamy Gelato: A scoop of classic vanilla or hazelnut gelato beside your cupcake not only matches the flavors but also provides a delightful creamy texture to savor.
Chocolate Dessert Wine: A glass of dessert wine sweetened with hints of cocoa is an excellent companion, enhancing the cupcakes’ chocolate elements while offering layer upon layer of flavor.
Lemon Sorbet: Balancing the sweetness of the cupcakes, a zesty sorbet provides a refreshing cleanse to the palate, inviting you for another heavenly bite without overwhelming the senses.
Long Island Iced Tea: For a fun gathering, pair your Cannoli Cupcakes with this refreshing cocktail. The drink’s citrus notes will harmonize beautifully with the rich flavors of your dessert.
These delightful pairings will transform your Cannoli Cupcake experience into a truly memorable occasion.
Make Ahead Options
These Cannoli Cupcakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can make the vanilla cupcakes up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake them, cool completely, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For the cannoli filling, prepare it up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. Just before serving, core the cooled cupcakes and fill them with the mixture to ensure the cupcakes stay fresh and delicious! This way, you’ll have a delightful treat ready to impress your guests with minimal effort.
How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Cupcakes
Room Temperature: Keep the Cannoli Cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. This helps maintain their fluffy texture and creaminess without refrigeration.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for longer freshness, allowing the cupcakes to stay good for up to 5 days. Make sure they are well covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, individually wrap the cupcakes in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or for a quick option, microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them slightly.
Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
What type of ricotta should I use for Cannoli Cupcakes?
I recommend using whole milk ricotta for a creamy and slightly grainy texture. Ensure it’s well-drained to avoid soggy cupcakes. You can also substitute it with mascarpone for a richer flavor!
How should I store Cannoli Cupcakes?
Store your Cannoli Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, ensuring they are covered well to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Cannoli Cupcakes?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm slightly.
What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If your cannoli filling seems too runny, check that your ricotta was well-drained. You can also add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a thicker consistency. Another option is to chill the filling for about 30 minutes before using it, allowing it to firm up.
Can I use a different cake mix for Cannoli Cupcakes?
Very much so! Feel free to experiment with flavors, like chocolate or red velvet cake mix. Just remember to adjust your filling ingredients to complement the new flavor if desired. This allows you to create themed variations that will delight any crowd!
Are Cannoli Cupcakes suitable for any dietary restrictions?
As these Cannoli Cupcakes feature traditional ingredients like cream cheese and ricotta, they may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. However, there are alternatives available, such as using dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based ricotta for a delicious, dairy-free treat!
Deliciously Indulgent Cannoli Cupcakes You'll Love
Equipment
- Cupcake Pan
- - Mixing bowls
- - Electric mixer
- Cupcake corer
- - Wire rack
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 1 box Vanilla cake mix Consider switching to homemade vanilla cake for a richer flavor.
- 1/2 cup Butter, softened Ensure it's at room temperature for easy mixing.
For the Cannoli Filling
- 8 oz Cream cheese, softened Substitute with mascarpone for an authentic cannoli taste.
- 1/2 cup Whole milk ricotta Make sure it's well-drained to keep cupcakes from getting soggy.
- 3 cups Powdered sugar Adjust to taste for your preferred sweetness.
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract Opt for high-quality extract for the best taste.
- 1/4 tsp Ground cinnamon Adds warmth and depth; optional but recommended.
- 1/4 tsp Kosher salt Be sure not to omit this essential ingredient.
- 1/3 cup Mini chocolate chips Feel free to use dark chocolate chips for added richness.
For Topping (Optional)
- 1 cup Chocolate chips Can be skipped for a simpler look.
- 2 Tbsp Coconut oil Can be substituted with vegetable oil if preferred.
Instructions
Cupcake Preparation
- Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions, incorporating softened butter for enhanced flavor.
- Bake the cupcakes in a preheated oven at 350°F until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, approximately 18-20 minutes.
- Cool the cupcakes completely on a wire rack.
Cannoli Filling
- Beat together the cream cheese, ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently.
- Core the cooled cupcakes and fill each generously with the cannoli mixture.
- Top with a sprinkle of chocolate chips.