What is the English Version of Cannoli

There is no direct English equivalent to cannoli, but it can be described as a sweet ricotta-filled pastry roll. In the context of Cannoli Cream Pie, the dessert translates beautifully across cultures, as the concept of a creamy filling inside a crust resonates universally with pie lovers.

What’s the Cream Inside of a Cannoli

The cream inside of a cannoli is a mixture of strained ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and flavorings. The key to its success lies in using high-quality, full-fat ricotta that has been properly drained to avoid a watery texture. In many modern versions, mascarpone is added for extra creaminess. When prepared correctly, the cream is rich yet light, with a subtle sweetness that complements the delicate crunch of the pastry shell or, in this case, the buttery pie crust.

What is the Filling in a Cannoli Made Of

Traditional cannoli filling consists mainly of ricotta cheese sweetened with sugar and enhanced with flavors such as vanilla, cinnamon, and citrus zest. Some variations include mascarpone to enrich the texture, as well as add-ins like mini chocolate chips, candied fruit, or chopped nuts. For Cannoli Cream Pie, the filling stays true to these roots but is lightened with whipped cream, resulting in a smooth, mousse-like consistency that holds well in a pie crust.

What is a Cannoli Pie

A Cannoli Pie is a delightful twist on the traditional Sicilian dessert known as cannoli. Instead of the classic fried pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cream, the flavors and textures are reimagined in pie form. The result is a creamy, sliceable dessert that preserves the essence of the original while being much easier to prepare. It eliminates the need for deep frying, making it more accessible for home bakers.

Cannoli Cream Pie – The Most Irresistible Dessert of 2025

Description

This Cannoli Cream Pie is a no-fuss dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious mascarpone and ricotta filling, studded with mini chocolate chips and kissed with citrus and spice. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a creamy, decadent treat that requires minimal baking.

Ingredients

Scale

12 graham cracker sheets
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
8 ounces mascarpone
¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon orange zest
¾ cup mini chocolate chips
Optional: Additional whipped cream and chocolate chips, for topping

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
Add granulated sugar and melted butter, pulsing until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Pour mixture into an ungreased pie dish, pressing firmly into the bottom and sides.
Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
In another large bowl, beat mascarpone until smooth.
Add confectioners’ sugar and beat until combined.
Mix in ricotta, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and orange zest. Beat until well incorporated.
Gently fold in whipped cream, then stir in mini chocolate chips.
Spread filling evenly into cooled pie crust.
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Top with extra whipped cream and chocolate chips if desired before serving.
Slice and enjoy.

Notes

For a more authentic cannoli flavor, use a mix of lemon and orange zest.
Substitute crushed cannoli shells for graham crackers for a richer crust.
Chill the pie overnight for best texture and flavor.
Use high-quality mascarpone and ricotta for a smoother filling.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake with Partial Bake
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
Calories: 420
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg