Introduction & Inspiration
This Cannoli Cupcakes recipe is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: classic vanilla cupcakes and the iconic Italian cannoli. I’ve always been a fan of cannoli – the crispy shell, the creamy ricotta filling, and the hint of chocolate and cinnamon. I wanted to create a dessert that captured.
The inspiration came from a desire to create a cupcake that was both unique and familiar, something that would be perfect for a special occasion, a dinner party, or just as a fun baking project. I wanted a cupcake that was relatively easy to make, but still delivered that authentic cannoli flavor and texture.
The combination of a simple vanilla cupcake base, a creamy ricotta and cream cheese frosting studded with mini chocolate chips, and a drizzle of melted chocolate creates a truly irresistible treat that’s sure to impress.
I’m excited to share this recipe because these cupcakes are always a hit. They’re a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of cannoli in a new and exciting format. They’re also a great conversation starter!
Nostalgic Appeal
Cannoli, a traditional Italian pastry, often evokes feelings of nostalgia, family gatherings, and special occasions. It’s a dessert that’s often associated with Italian-American culture and cherished memories.
These Cannoli Cupcakes tap into that nostalgia, offering a fun and modern twist on the classic cannoli. They’re a reminder that baking can be both creative and comforting, and that sometimes the best treats are the ones that are inspired by familiar favorites.
The cupcake format also adds to the nostalgic appeal, reminiscent of childhood birthday parties and simple, delicious desserts. It’s a recipe that’s both familiar and exciting.
And that’s the beauty of these cupcakes – they combine the familiar comfort of cannoli flavors with the convenience and fun of a cupcake, creating a treat that’s both nostalgic and delightful.
Homemade Focus
I am always focus on homemade. Easy to make cupcakes!
Flavor Goal
Cannoli in a cupcake. Ricotta, cream cheese and chocolate.
Ingredient Insights
Vanilla cake mix, butter, cream cheese, whole milk ricotta, powdered sugar, pure vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, mini chocolate chips, chocolate chips, coconut oil.
Essential Equipment
Two 12-cup cupcake pans, cupcake liners, large bowl, hand mixer, teaspoon, pastry bag (or resealable plastic bag) (optional).
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 box vanilla cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 Tbsp. coconut oil

Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350°. Line two 12-cup cupcake pans with cupcake liners.
- Make Cupcake Batter and Bake: Prepare batter according to package instructions. Divide batter between cupcake liners and bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle of a cupcake comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Make Frosting: Meanwhile, make frosting: In a large bowl, beat together butter, cream cheese, and ricotta until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt and beat until smooth and fluffy. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Core and Frost: Transfer frosting to a large pastry bag (or resealable plastic bag) cut with a large tip. Using a teaspoon, scoop out middle of each cupcake to create a small well. Pipe frosting onto each cupcake, filling the wells.
- Melt chocolate
- Drizzle and serve.

Troubleshooting
*Cupcakes sinking in the middle *Frosting too thin or thick
Tips and Variations
- Add Orange Zest:
- Use Pistachios:
- Make Mini Cupcakes:
Customize.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Italian-themed dinner.
Nutritional Information
Enjoy
PrintCannoli Cupcakes
This Cannoli Cupcakes recipe is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: classic vanilla cupcakes and the iconic Italian cannoli
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 Tbsp. coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350°. Line two 12-cup cupcake pans with cupcake liners.
- Make Cupcake Batter and Bake: Prepare batter according to package instructions. Divide batter between cupcake liners and bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle of a cupcake comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Make Frosting: Meanwhile, make frosting: In a large bowl, beat together butter, cream cheese, and ricotta until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt and beat until smooth and fluffy. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Core and Frost: Transfer frosting to a large pastry bag (or resealable plastic bag) cut with a large tip. Using a teaspoon, scoop out middle of each cupcake to create a small well. Pipe frosting onto each cupcake, filling the wells.
- Melt chocolate
- Drizzle and serve.
Recipe Summary and Q&A
A fun and delicious twist on cannoli.
Q: Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? A: Yes!
Q: Can I freeze the unfrosted cupcakes? A: Yes
Q: Can I use a different type of frosting? A: Sure.