There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the scent of vanilla and cinnamon mingles in the air, and it’s a smell I can’t resist—especially when it promises a delightful treat. That’s how I stumbled upon the idea for these Cannoli Cupcakes, blending the classic Italian pastry I adore with the familiar comfort of a moist cupcake. Imagine the surprise on your guests’ faces when they bite into that soft, pillowy top, revealing a luscious cream filling that rivals the beloved cannoli!
Whether you’re gearing up for a special celebration or simply craving a sweet escape from the everyday, these cupcakes are the perfect companion for your dessert table. With their rich flavors, they are bound to become a new favorite, turning any gathering into a festive occasion. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this fun twist on a traditional dessert—you’ll have them petitioning for the recipe before they’ve even finished their first!
Why love Cannoli Cupcakes so much?
Indulgent flavor: Each bite offers a delightful blend of creamy cannoli filling with hints of vanilla and cinnamon.
Showstopper appeal: Their unique appearance and decadent taste will surely steal the spotlight at any gathering.
Easy-to-make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip these up in no time!
Versatile variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors like chocolate cake mix or add-ins such as pistachios for a personal touch.
Perfect for celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, baby shower, or just because, these cupcakes bring a festive spirit to any occasion.
Embrace the celebration with a twist on a classic, and elevate your dessert game with these delightful treats!
Cannoli Cupcakes Ingredients
• Get ready to bring the joy of cannoli into your kitchen!
For the Cupcakes
- Vanilla cake mix – Provides the cupcake base; substitute with a homemade vanilla cake for a personal touch.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened – Adds richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients; can substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
- 2 Tbsp. coconut oil – Keeps the cupcake moist; vegetable oil works well if preferred.
For the Cannoli Filling
- 1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened – Contributes to the creamy texture; mascarpone can be used for a richer flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta – Essential for authentic cannoli flavor; using different types of creamy cheese may alter taste.
- 3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the filling; sift before measuring to prevent lumps.
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract – Enhances the filling’s flavor; almond extract can offer a delightful twist.
- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon – Adds warmth; increase to taste for a bolder flavor.
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt – Balances the sweetness; sea salt is a great alternative.
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips – Provides a tasty texture; feel free to swap with your favorite nuts.
For Topping/Decoration
- 1 cup chocolate chips – Perfect for decorating on top or incorporating into the batter; dark chocolate adds a luxurious touch.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting) – A light touch that enhances presentation; optional but adds charm.
Now you’re all set to craft these Cannoli Cupcakes that will surely become the star of your next gathering!
How to Make Cannoli Cupcakes
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a standard cupcake pan with cupcake liners to get ready for your delightful creations!
Mix the vanilla cake mix with softened butter, eggs, and coconut oil in a large bowl. Beat until the batter is smooth and well combined—this should take about 2 minutes.
Fill each cupcake liner with the batter, about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the cupcakes completely on a wire rack. This step is essential for achieving the perfect filling later on.
Prepare the cannoli filling by beating the softened cream cheese, ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt in a bowl until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips for added texture.
Core the cooled cupcakes using a cupcake corer or knife, creating a hole in the center of each. Fill each cupcake generously with the cannoli filling, ensuring a delightful surprise with every bite.
Decorate the tops with additional chocolate chips or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation—this little extra will wow your guests!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for a gourmet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cannoli Cupcakes
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients, like cream cheese and ricotta, are at room temperature for a smoother cannoli filling.
Careful Coring: When coring the cupcakes, use a dedicated corer or a sharp knife to avoid breaking them. This ensures you have enough space for the filling.
Let the Filling Chill: Chilling the cannoli filling for a bit before using can enhance its texture and flavor, making it even more delightful when stuffed into the cupcakes.
Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix the cupcake batter just until combined to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense cakes.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the filling or cake mix! Substitute chocolate cake for an extra treat or add a hint of orange zest to bring traditional cannoli flavors to life.
Embrace these tips, and your Cannoli Cupcakes will be a hit at every celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Cupcakes
Fridge: Place filled Cannoli Cupcakes in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps keep the filling fresh and creamy.
Freezer: If you have leftover cupcakes, freeze them unfilled in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and fill before serving for the best texture.
Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy them warm, microwave filled cupcakes for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the chocolate!
Make-Ahead: Bake the cupcakes a day in advance, keeping them unfilled at room temperature. Fill them the morning of your event for optimal freshness.
Cannoli Cupcakes Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious cupcakes to fit your taste buds!
- Chocolate Cake: Swap the vanilla cake mix for chocolate cake mix for a decadent twist.
- Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing zing that brightens each bite.
- Nut Lover’s Delight: Incorporate chopped pistachios or walnuts into the filling for a delightful crunch reminiscent of traditional cannoli.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to create a deliciously inclusive dessert without sacrificing flavor.
- Spiced Filling: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom in the filling for a unique flavor boost that will surprise your taste buds.
- Almond Extract: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract in the filling to intensify the traditional Italian flavors.
- Fruity Filling: Fold in crushed berries or your favorite fruit preserves into the filling for a fruity contrast to the rich cream.
- Heat It Up: For those who enjoy a little warmth, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or use spicy chocolate chips for an unexpected kick.
Make Ahead Options
These Cannoli Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to streamline your baking process! You can bake the cupcakes up to 24 hours in advance, and once they’re completely cooled, simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their moisture. The cannoli filling can be prepared ahead of time as well; just refrigerate it for up to 3 days in a tightly sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, core the cooled cupcakes and fill each with the chilled filling for a delightful surprise. This preparation method not only saves you time but ensures that your Cannoli Cupcakes remain just as delicious when it’s party time!
What to Serve with Cannoli Cupcakes?
These delightful treats are perfect for pairing with complementary flavors and textures that will enhance your celebration.
Fresh Berries: Berries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes, refreshing every bite with their juiciness.
Espresso: This classic Italian coffee intensifies the flavors, creating a wonderfully rich experience that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a velvety texture that complements the cupcakes and balances the sweet richness of the filling.
Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of warm ganache will elevate the cupcakes, adding a luxurious touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For those who love extra frosting, a lightly sweetened cream cheese frosting can enhance the already indulgent experience.
Pistachio Topping: A sprinkle of crushed pistachios not only adds a delightful crunch but also brings in traditional cannoli flavors, making it feel festive and special!
Sparkling Wine: Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or prosecco for a bubbly touch, perfectly celebrating the joy of lingering moments.
These combinations will turn any occasion into a memorable feast, inviting smiles and delight as you serve up your Cannoli Cupcakes!
Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
What type of vanilla cake mix should I use for the cupcakes?
You can use any standard vanilla cake mix for these Cannoli Cupcakes. If you prefer a homemade touch, try using your favorite homemade vanilla cake recipe instead. Just remember, the quality of the cake mix will affect your final product, so go for one you trust!
How should I store Cannoli Cupcakes after baking?
To keep your filled Cannoli Cupcakes fresh, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure they are in a single layer to prevent any squishing or melting of chocolate. This will help maintain the creaminess of the filling.
Can I freeze Cannoli Cupcakes?
Absolutely! To freeze Cannoli Cupcakes, it’s best to freeze them unfilled. Place them in an airtight container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cupcakes in the refrigerator for a few hours, then fill them with the cannoli filling right before serving to keep them fresh!
What if my cupcakes domed too much while baking?
If your cupcakes dome excessively, it might be due to overmixing the batter or baking at too high a temperature. Be sure to mix the batter just until combined and check your oven temperature for accuracy. If you still get over-domed cupcakes, don’t worry! They can easily be leveled with a knife before frosting or filling.
Are Cannoli Cupcakes safe for pets?
While cupcakes are a delightful treat for humans, they aren’t appropriate for our furry friends. Ingredients like chocolate and sugar can be harmful to pets. It’s best to keep these Cannoli Cupcakes just for the human festivities!
Can I use a different filling instead of the cannoli filling?
Of course! While the traditional cannoli filling is divine, feel free to experiment. You can use whipped cream, pastry cream, or even a fruity filling if you’re feeling adventurous. Just make sure it balances well with the cupcake’s flavor.
Irresistible Cannoli Cupcakes for Your Next Celebration
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a standard cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
- Mix the vanilla cake mix with softened butter, eggs, and coconut oil in a large bowl. Beat until smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Fill each cupcake liner with the batter, about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool the cupcakes completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the cannoli filling by beating cream cheese, ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt until smooth. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Core the cooled cupcakes and fill each cupcake with the cannoli filling.
- Decorate with additional chocolate chips or powdered sugar.