Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my cozy kitchen, the aroma of sweet vanilla and butter danced through the air, instantly taking me back to my Italian grandmother’s home. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful twist on a classic: Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling. This innovative dessert pairs the crisp, intricate pizzelle cookies with a creamy, dreamy ricotta filling that everyone will adore. Not only is this recipe quick to whip up, but it’s also visually stunning, making it perfect for any gathering or a special treat just for yourself. Trust me, once you taste that delicate crunch paired with the rich creamy goodness, you’ll be left wondering how you ever lived without it. Ready to dive into a scrumptious adventure? Let’s make these lovely Pizzelle Cannoli together! Why will you love Pizzelle Cannoli? Unique Twist: Imagine transforming a classic cannoli into a light, crispy pizzelle shell—this recipe does just that! Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying these delightful treats in no time. Rich, Creamy Filling: The heavenly ricotta mixture, infused with sweet vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, creates a filling that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a dinner party or a cozy night in, these Pizzelle Cannoli will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Versatile Flavors: Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins, like mini chocolate chips or citrus zest, for a personal touch. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea, and don’t forget to check out my other delicious desserts like Chaffle Egg Cheese or Cajun Pasta Sausage for more delightful recipes! Pizzelle Cannoli Ingredients • Delight in creating these enchanting Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling! For the Pizzelle Cookies All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the pizzelle cookies; feel free to use a gluten-free blend if preferred. Eggs – Essential for moisture and binding; choose large eggs for optimal results. Granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter beautifully; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a healthier option. Unsalted butter – Ensures richness and contributes to a crispy texture; switch to coconut oil for a dairy-free treat. Vanilla extract – Enhances the cookie flavor; almond extract can be substituted for a different twist. Anise extract (or lemon zest) – Infuses a unique flavor; lemon zest can be replaced with orange zest for a fresh varietal taste. Baking powder – Provides leavening for light, airy pizzelle; ensure it is fresh for the best texture. For the Ricotta Filling Ricotta cheese – Forms the base of the creamy filling; opt for whole milk ricotta for extra richness and drain excess moisture. Powdered sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the ricotta mix; use less for a less sweet filling. Cinnamon – Adds warmth and a bit of spice; optional for those preferring a more neutral flavor. Mini chocolate chips – Introduce delightful sweetness and texture; swap with dried fruit for a fruity variation. Settle in, and let’s embark on this delicious culinary journey together! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling Step 1: Make the Pizzelle Batter In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually mix in ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract along with ½ teaspoon of anise extract. Gently fold in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder until a smooth batter forms. Step 2: Preheat the Pizzelle Maker Plug in your pizzelle maker and adjust the temperature according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually around medium heat. Allow the maker to heat up for about 5 minutes while preparing your batter; this ensures that the pizzelle will cook evenly and achieve the perfect golden-brown color. Step 3: Cook the Pizzelle Once the pizzelle maker is ready, drop about 1 tablespoon of batter onto the center of each plate. Close the lid and cook for 30-60 seconds, or until the pizzelle are lightly golden and fragrant. Carefully remove them using a fork or tongs and place them on a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they stay crispy. Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Filling In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of drained ricotta cheese, ¼ cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ cup of mini chocolate chips. Use a hand mixer and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This luscious filling will beautifully complement your pizzelle cannoli. Step 5: Assemble the Cannoli Once your pizzelle are completely cool, it’s time to fill them! Using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully fill each pizzelle with the ricotta mixture, aiming to distribute the filling evenly without overstuffing. This step allows the pizzelle to maintain their crispy texture while being transformed into delightful Pizzelle Cannoli. Step 6: Garnish and Serve To elevate your Pizzelle Cannoli, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. You may also choose to garnish with crushed pistachios or maraschino cherries for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately alongside a cup of coffee or tea, inviting everyone to indulge in this sweet treat! What to Serve with Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling Indulging in these delightful sweets opens the door to a mouthwatering meal finale that everyone will cherish. Espresso or Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of espresso contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cannoli, providing a perfect end to your meal. Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling. Fresh Berries: Light and refreshing, a medley of strawberries and raspberries offers a tart complement to the sweetness of the cannoli. Whipped Cream: Fluffy and airy, it elevates the dessert experience, enhancing both texture and taste with its delicate sweetness. Citrus Sorbet: The zesty refreshment of sorbet cleanses the palate and balances the richness of the ricotta filling, creating a delightful contrast. Pistachio Crumble: Adding a nutty crunch, crushed pistachios provide a delightful texture that harmonizes with the smooth filling of the cannoli. Limoncello: This Italian lemon liqueur adds a refreshing citrus twist, enhancing the flavors in the cannoli while providing a vibrant finish to your meal. Toasted Almonds: These add a subtle warmth and texture, enriching the overall dessert experience while tieing into the flavors of the pizzelle. Maraschino Cherries: A classic garnish, these sweet cherries add a pop of color and a nostalgic touch that brings joy to the presentation. Make Ahead Options These Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dessert on a busy weeknight! You can prepare the pizzelle cookies up to 3 days in advance—simply cool them completely and store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. For the ricotta filling, you can make it up to 24 hours prior, but be sure to refrigerate it in a sealed container to keep it fresh and creamy. When you’re ready to serve, just fill the pizzelle shells with the ricotta mixture and dust with powdered sugar for a restaurant-quality finish—it’s that easy! This way, you’ll have a delicious treat ready in no time! Expert Tips for Pizzelle Cannoli Crispy Shells: Allow pizzelle to cool completely before filling them to prevent sogginess and maintain their delightful crunch. Filling Control: Avoid overfilling the pizzelle with the ricotta mixture; too much filling can cause them to break apart. Strain Ricotta: For a thicker ricotta filling, use a fine-mesh sieve to strain the ricotta cheese before mixing. Shaping Warm Pizzelle: If you want to shape pizzelle into cones, do it immediately after cooking when they are still pliable. Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors in the ricotta filling, like citrus zest for a refreshing twist. Storage Wisdom: Keep filled Pizzelle Cannoli in the refrigerator for best flavor, but fill them just before serving to ensure optimal texture. How to Store and Freeze Pizzelle Cannoli Room Temperature: Keep unfilled pizzelle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their crispiness. Fridge: If you have any leftover filled Pizzelle Cannoli, store them in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 days; they are best enjoyed fresh! Freezer: To freeze unfilled pizzelle, stack them with parchment paper between layers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Fill them with ricotta just before serving. Reheating: If you want to refresh your pizzelle, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crunch before serving. Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling Variations Customize your dessert experience to perfectly match your taste buds and creativity with these delightful twists! Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta with silken tofu blended with a splash of coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based filling. Fruity Delight: Mix in ½ cup of crushed berries or sliced peaches into the ricotta for a refreshing, fruity twist that brightens each bite. Nutty Flavor: Add ¼ cup of chopped nuts, like pistachios or almonds, into the filling or sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch and earthy flavor. Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Stir in ½ cup of cocoa powder into the ricotta for a rich chocolate filling that’s guaranteed to satisfy even the most intense cravings. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or a dash of chili powder into the filling for a surprising spicy note that elevates the sweetness. Citrus Zing: Substitute lemon zest with orange or lime zest in the filling for a pop of citrus brightness that adds an enchanting twist. Gourmet Toppings: Drizzle with a homemade chocolate ganache or a caramel sauce for an indulgent finish that looks as stunning as it tastes. Protein Boost: Mix in some Greek yogurt with the ricotta for added protein, creaminess, and nutritional benefits while enhancing the overall texture. Don’t forget to pair these beautiful Pizzelle Cannoli with a warm cup of tea or coffee, and if you’re looking for more enticing recipes, be sure to explore my Beet Burrata Nuts or Balsamic Steak Corn for delightful culinary adventures! Pizzelle Cannoli with Creamy Ricotta Filling Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for my Pizzelle Cannoli? Absolutely! When choosing ricotta cheese, look for one that is creamy and fresh—avoid any with excess liquid or dark spots on the packaging. For the eggs, opt for large eggs; they can significantly impact the fluffiness of your pizzelle batter. Fresh butter and quality extracts (like vanilla and anise) enhance the flavors, making your dessert unforgettable! How should I store leftover Pizzelle Cannoli? If you happen to have any filled Pizzelle Cannoli left, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that they are best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispiness of the pizzelle; if they’re left too long, they can become soggy. Can I freeze Pizzelle Cannoli? Yes! To freeze unfilled pizzelle, place parchment paper between layers in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Just remember to fill them with ricotta shortly before serving for the best texture. If you want to refresh the pizzelle after freezing, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. What should I do if my pizzelle aren’t coming out crispy? If your pizzelle are turning out soft, it could be due to two common issues—overmixing the batter or not allowing them to cool completely. Ensure you’re mixing just until combined and letting them cool on a wire rack. If the filling makes the pizzelle soggy, consider reducing the amount of filling or adding the filling right before serving. Are there any dietary considerations for Pizzelle Cannoli? Very! If you’re preparing Pizzelle Cannoli for guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily tweak the recipe. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If dairy is a concern, using coconut oil instead of butter and opting for dairy-free ricotta can create a delicious alternative. Just make sure to check for allergies related to nuts or chocolate, particularly if adding these to your ricotta filling. How can I customize the flavor of my Pizzelle Cannoli filling? The more the merrier! You can easily switch up the flavor of your ricotta filling by adding different extracts like almond or using citrus zest for brightness. Adding a touch of espresso powder instead of chocolate chips could impart a delightful coffee flavor. Simply whisk these flavorings into the filling mixture until you’ve achieved your desired taste! Delicious Pizzelle Cannoli with Creamy Ricotta Filling Enjoy Pizzelle Cannoli with Ricotta Filling, a delightful twist on a classic dessert, featuring crisp pizzelle cookies and rich creamy filling. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 12 cannoliCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pizzelle Cookies2 cups all-purpose flour Gluten-free blend can be used.3 large eggs Provides moisture and binding.¾ cup granulated sugar Coconut sugar can be a substitute.½ cup unsalted butter Melted, can replace with coconut oil.2 teaspoons vanilla extract Enhances flavor.½ teaspoon anise extract Can substitute with lemon zest.1 teaspoon baking powder Ensure freshness for best texture.For the Ricotta Filling1 cup ricotta cheese Drain excess moisture.¼ cup powdered sugar Use less for a less sweet filling.½ teaspoon cinnamon Optional.¼ cup mini chocolate chips Can swap with dried fruit. Equipment Pizzelle maker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually mix in ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of anise extract. Gently fold in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder until smooth.Plug in your pizzelle maker and adjust to medium heat. Allow it to heat up for about 5 minutes.Drop about 1 tablespoon of batter onto the center of each plate. Close the lid and cook for 30-60 seconds, until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove carefully and cool on a wire rack.In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of drained ricotta cheese, ¼ cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ cup of mini chocolate chips. Blend until smooth and creamy.Once pizzelle are cool, fill each with the ricotta mixture using a piping bag or spoon without overstuffing.Dust filled Pizzelle Cannoli with powdered sugar and garnish with crushed pistachios or maraschino cherries if desired. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1cannoliCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 4IUCalcium: 8mgIron: 2mg NotesAllow pizzelle to cool completely before filling to prevent sogginess. Store unfilled pizzelle in an airtight container for up to 5 days, filled ones in the fridge for 2 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
