Cannoli Cupcakes

If you’re a fan of cannoli, then you’re going to absolutely fall head over heels for these Cannoli Cupcakes. Imagine soft, fluffy vanilla cupcakes filled with a creamy ricotta filling, then topped with a sweet, lightly spiced frosting. Oh, and let’s not forget the mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top, just like the classic cannoli! These little cupcakes bring all the flavors of the iconic Italian pastry into a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Cannoli Cupcakes

A Slice of Italy in Every Bite

These cupcakes are like a tiny piece of Italy in every bite. The rich, creamy ricotta filling and subtle orange zest give them that cannoli flair, making them something a little special and a lot delicious.

Creamy and Light

The ricotta filling is smooth, fluffy, and perfectly sweet. Paired with the soft vanilla cupcake, it’s a combination that will leave you dreaming about your next bite.

Simple Yet Impressive

Don’t be fooled by how easy these cupcakes are to make! With just a few steps, you’ll create an impressive treat that looks and tastes like something you’d get from an Italian bakery. And everyone will think you’ve spent hours on them.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a birthday, or simply enjoying a weekend treat, these cupcakes are always a hit. They’re a great way to add a little extra flair to your dessert table.

Ingredients

Cupcake Ingredients

Flour
This provides the structure and base for the cupcakes.

Baking Powder
Helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.

Sugar
Adds sweetness to the batter and balances the other flavors.

Butter
Makes the cupcakes moist and gives them that rich flavor.

Eggs
Essential for binding the ingredients together and providing moisture.

Milk
Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.

Vanilla Extract
For that warm, comforting flavor.

Salt
Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Ricotta Filling Ingredients

Ricotta Cheese
The star of the cannoli filling! It’s creamy and slightly grainy, making it the perfect texture for filling the cupcakes.

Powdered Sugar
Adds sweetness to the ricotta filling without making it grainy.

Vanilla Extract
Gives the filling a lovely, subtle flavor.

Mini Chocolate Chips
These add a little crunch and richness, just like in traditional cannoli.

Orange Zest
A touch of orange zest brightens up the filling and adds that signature flavor found in cannoli.

Frosting Ingredients

Butter
Creates a creamy and smooth frosting that’s easy to pipe and spread.

Cream Cheese
Provides a tangy richness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the frosting.

Powdered Sugar
Sweetens the frosting and helps it maintain the right consistency.

Vanilla Extract
For a bit of flavor to enhance the frosting.

Cinnamon
A pinch of cinnamon gives the frosting a warm, cozy spice that complements the cannoli flavor.

Mini Chocolate Chips (for topping)
Optional, but definitely recommended for that classic cannoli look.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to bring these cupcakes to life? Let’s do it!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.

Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Ricotta Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. Refrigerate the filling while the cupcakes cool.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, a little at a time, and continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and well-combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon.

Step 6: Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes have cooled, use a cupcake corer or a small knife to create a hole in the center of each cupcake. Fill the center of each cupcake with the ricotta filling, making sure it’s generously filled.

Frost the tops of the cupcakes with the cream cheese frosting. For an extra touch, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top of the frosting, just like the classic cannoli.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these cupcakes at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. They’re perfect for sharing or indulging in on your own!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 310
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 125mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 23g
Protein: 5g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes (including cooling)

How to Serve Cannoli Cupcakes

These cupcakes are great on their own, but they’re even better when paired with a few extras:

Fresh Berries

A handful of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, can bring a nice tang to balance the sweetness of the cupcakes.

Espresso

A strong cup of espresso or Italian coffee makes the perfect pairing with these cannoli-inspired cupcakes. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the dessert beautifully.

Gelato

Serve these cupcakes with a scoop of pistachio or vanilla gelato for a truly indulgent treat.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead

You can bake the cupcakes and prepare the ricotta filling a day ahead of time. Just store everything separately and assemble the cupcakes the day you plan to serve them for maximum freshness.

Don’t Skip the Orange Zest

The orange zest really brings out the authentic cannoli flavor, so don’t skip it! It’s what makes these cupcakes so special.

Use Full-Fat Ricotta

For the best texture and flavor, make sure to use full-fat ricotta. Low-fat ricotta can be too watery and won’t provide the same creamy filling.

Customize the Toppings

If you want to switch things up, try using chopped pistachios or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top instead of mini chocolate chips.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

A1: Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free.

Q2: Can I use a different filling?

A2: While ricotta is traditional for cannoli, you can try mascarpone or cream cheese for a different twist. Just make sure the filling is smooth and not too runny.

Q3: How long do these cupcakes last?

A3: These cupcakes are best eaten within 2-3 days, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q4: Can I freeze these cupcakes?

A4: Yes! You can freeze the baked cupcakes without the frosting or filling for up to 3 months. Just thaw and assemble when you’re ready to enjoy them.

Q5: Can I use store-bought ricotta?

A5: Absolutely! Just be sure to drain it well if it’s too watery. Fresh ricotta is best, but store-bought works fine.

Q6: Can I make these cupcakes without eggs?

A6: Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan-friendly option.

Q7: How can I make the frosting less sweet?

A7: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, you can reduce the powdered sugar by half. You can also add a little more cream cheese to balance the flavor.

Q8: Can I add nuts to the filling?

A8: Yes, chopped pistachios or almonds would make a delicious addition to the ricotta filling, adding both flavor and crunch.

Q9: Can I make mini cannoli cupcakes?

A9: Yes, you can make mini cupcakes by using a mini cupcake tin and adjusting the baking time (bake for 10-12 minutes). Just be sure to use a small piping tip for the filling.

Q10: What’s the best way to store these cupcakes?

A10: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to allow the cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Cannoli Cupcakes are a fun, indulgent twist on the classic Italian dessert. With their soft vanilla cupcakes, creamy ricotta filling, and sweet frosting, these little treats bring all the best cannoli flavors in a convenient, bite-sized form. They’re perfect for any celebration—or just because you deserve something sweet today! Enjoy!

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