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Cannoli Cupcakes

Indulge in Dreamy Cannoli Cupcakes That Wow Every Bite

These Cannoli Cupcakes combine creamy ricotta and luscious frosting for a delightful dessert experience.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • - Mixing bowl
  • Piping bag
  • cupcake liners
  • - Oven
  • - Wire rack

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcake Base

  • 1 box Vanilla Cake Mix Any brand of yellow or vanilla cake mix is suitable.
  • 1/2 cup Butter Softened; margarine can be used as a dairy-free substitute.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Softened; Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter alternative.
  • 3 cups Powdered Sugar Granulated sugar can be blended into a fine powder as a substitute.
  • 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract Using fresh vanilla beans is a gourmet twist.
  • 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt Can also use sea salt.

For the Cannoli Filling

  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk Ricotta Mascarpone can be used for a different texture.
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon Can be omitted if desired.
  • 1/3 cup Mini Chocolate Chips Dark chocolate chips can offer a deeper flavor.

For the Decoration

  • 1 cup Chocolate Chips Sprinkles can be used for a festive touch.
  • 2 Tbsp Coconut Oil Vegetable oil can work as a substitute.

Instructions
 

Cupcake Preparation

  • Prepare Cupcake Batter: Start by mixing the vanilla cake mix with the softened butter and egg as per the package instructions, ensuring a smooth and well-blended batter.
  • Bake: Fill the cupcake liners three-quarters full with the batter, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Cool Cupcakes: Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Filling and Frosting

  • Make Cannoli Filling: While the cupcakes are baking, beat together the ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until you achieve a smooth consistency; then fold in the mini chocolate chips for delightful bites of texture.
  • Fill Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag to generously fill each cupcake with the cannoli cream filling, ensuring every bite is stuffed with that sweet goodness.
  • Frost: Top each filled cupcake with a layer of cream cheese frosting and sprinkle chocolate chips over the top for an added touch of sweetness and texture before serving.

Notes

Optional: Drizzle with chocolate syrup for an extra touch of indulgence. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before filling to ensure a delightful texture.
Keyword baking, Cannoli Cupcakes, cupcake recipe, Italian dessert, party desserts, sweet treats