This Cannoli Cake brings the rich and delicate flavors of the classic Italian pastry into a light, fluffy, and beautifully layered dessert. With its moist vanilla cake, creamy ricotta frosting, and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips, every bite delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and indulgence. The subtle touch of orange zest adds a refreshing contrast, making it even more irresistible.
Perfect for any celebration or special gathering, this cake is both elegant and easy to make. The semi-naked frosting style gives it a rustic, homemade charm, while the chocolate chip topping adds a playful, textured finish. Serve it chilled for the best experience, and enjoy a taste of La Dolce Vita in every slice!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Cake:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅔ cup unsalted butter, room temp
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temp
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1¼ cups buttermilk, room temp
- ¾ cup mini chocolate chips
Ricotta Frosting:
- ⅓ cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temp
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips (for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and lightly grease with nonstick spray.
- Prepare the batter: In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add ⅓ of the flour mixture, then mix in ½ cup buttermilk. Repeat until all flour and buttermilk are incorporated, ending with flour.
- Gently fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 28-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Torte the cakes: Once completely cooled, use a serrated knife to slice each cake round in half horizontally, creating four thin layers.
- Prepare frosting: Place ricotta on a plate lined with paper towels, pressing lightly to remove excess moisture.
- In a bowl, beat the ricotta, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the ricotta mixture along with the orange zest (if using).
- Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread ½ cup frosting over it. Repeat with the remaining layers. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake for a semi-naked effect.
- Decorate: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 446 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Cannoli Cake: A Taste of Italy in Every Bite
Italian desserts are known for their rich flavors, creamy textures, and impeccable balance of sweetness. Among these beloved treats, Cannoli Cake stands out as a delightful fusion of the classic cannoli pastry and a traditional layer cake. This exquisite dessert captures the essence of an authentic Italian cannoli with its creamy ricotta filling, delicate vanilla sponge, and indulgent chocolate chip topping. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake offers the perfect combination of elegance and comfort.
The Inspiration Behind Cannoli Cake
The inspiration for Cannoli Cake comes from the world-famous Sicilian cannoli, a crispy pastry shell filled with a sweet ricotta-based cream. Cannoli have been a staple of Italian pastry shops for centuries, often flavored with orange zest, vanilla, chocolate, or even pistachios. Transforming this beloved dessert into a cake allows for a sliceable, shareable version of the treat while maintaining its signature flavors and textures.
Unlike the traditional fried shell of a cannoli, this cake features soft, fluffy layers of vanilla cake infused with a hint of citrus. The ricotta frosting mirrors the cannoli filling, offering a light yet creamy texture that perfectly complements the sponge. Mini chocolate chips are added for a delightful crunch, replicating the classic cannoli experience in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
Cannoli Cake is not only a visually stunning dessert but also a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your baking list:
- Authentic Italian Flavors – The combination of ricotta, vanilla, and chocolate chips creates a flavor profile reminiscent of traditional cannoli.
- Moist and Fluffy Texture – Unlike some cakes that can be overly dense, this cake remains light and airy while still being rich in flavor.
- Perfect Balance of Sweetness – The ricotta frosting is not as heavy as buttercream, making it a great alternative for those who prefer a lighter frosting.
- Versatile for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress guests and family members alike.
- Easy to Make – While it looks elegant and sophisticated, this cake is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
The Role of Ricotta in Cannoli Cake
One of the defining characteristics of Cannoli Cake is the use of ricotta cheese in the frosting. Ricotta, a staple ingredient in many Italian desserts, has a naturally creamy yet slightly grainy texture that adds a unique richness to the cake. It’s essential to drain the ricotta properly before using it in the frosting to remove excess moisture, ensuring a smooth and stable consistency.
When paired with whipped cream and powdered sugar, ricotta transforms into a luscious frosting that is both light and decadent. A touch of orange zest enhances the flavor, adding a subtle citrus note that elevates the entire dessert. Unlike butter-based frostings, which can be heavy and overly sweet, ricotta frosting provides a more delicate finish that allows the cake’s flavors to shine.
Tips for the Best Cannoli Cake
To achieve the perfect Cannoli Cake, follow these expert tips:
- Use Fresh, High-Quality Ricotta – Opt for whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Drain the Ricotta Thoroughly – Excess moisture can make the frosting too runny. Place the ricotta on paper towels and gently press to remove liquid before mixing.
- Fold, Don’t Overmix – When incorporating the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture, gently fold it in to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Chill Before Serving – Allowing the cake to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving enhances the flavors and helps set the frosting.
- Add a Crunch Factor – For an extra textural contrast, consider adding chopped pistachios or toasted almonds along with the mini chocolate chips.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
Cannoli Cake is not just about taste it’s also a stunning dessert that deserves a beautiful presentation. Here are some ideas to make it even more eye catching:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant finish and enhances the visual appeal.
- Garnish with Chocolate Shavings – Instead of only using mini chocolate chips, add dark chocolate curls or grated chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Decorate with Fresh Fruit – Thin slices of orange, lemon zest, or even fresh berries can complement the cake’s flavors and add a pop of color.
- Use a Semi-Naked Frosting Style – Leaving the cake slightly exposed gives it a rustic, homemade charm while still looking sophisticated.
- Drizzle with Honey or Chocolate Syrup – A light drizzle over the top of the cake can add an extra layer of sweetness and decoration.
Pairing Cannoli Cake with Beverages
This rich and creamy cake pairs well with a variety of beverages, enhancing the overall dining experience. Some recommended pairings include:
- Espresso or Coffee – The bold flavors of Italian espresso contrast beautifully with the cake’s sweetness.
- Dessert Wines – A sweet Moscato, Vin Santo, or Marsala wine can complement the cake’s flavors.
- Tea – A citrusy Earl Grey or chamomile tea provides a delicate balance to the richness of the cake.
- Milk or Hot Chocolate – Perfect for kids or those who love a comforting combination.
Variations of Cannoli Cake
If you’d like to put a personal twist on Cannoli Cake, here are some creative variations to try:
- Chocolate Cannoli Cake – Add cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Lemon Ricotta Cake – Enhance the citrus notes by adding fresh lemon juice and zest to the cake batter.
- Almond Cannoli Cake – Substitute almond extract for vanilla and top with toasted almonds.
- Pistachio Cannoli Cake – Mix finely chopped pistachios into the batter and garnish with crushed pistachios for an authentic Sicilian touch.
- Tiramisu Cannoli Cake – Soak the cake layers with espresso and add a dusting of cocoa powder for a tiramisu-inspired twist.
Conclusion
Cannoli Cake is a delightful celebration of Italian flavors, bringing together the best elements of a traditional cannoli and a classic layer cake. Its light vanilla sponge, creamy ricotta frosting, and indulgent chocolate chip topping make it a dessert that stands out both in flavor and presentation. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its balance of textures and rich yet refreshing taste.
By following the tips and variations outlined above, you can easily customize Cannoli Cake to suit your personal preferences and wow your family and friends with a dessert that embodies La Dolce Vita the sweet life. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the irresistible charm of homemade Cannoli Cake!