Italian Cannoli Cream Pie: A Classic Pastry Reimagined as an Elegant Dessert

Introduction

Italian Cannoli Cream Pie transforms the beloved flavors of a traditional cannoli into a smooth, creamy, sliceable dessert that feels both familiar and refined. I first made this pie when I wanted the essence of a classic Italian bakery treat without the fuss of frying shells. The result was even better than expected. The filling is rich yet light, with the delicate sweetness of ricotta balanced by vanilla and citrus notes, all nestled into a crisp crust. What makes this pie special is its texture. It is silky and luscious but not heavy, making it perfect after a hearty meal. This dessert works beautifully for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you want something impressive yet approachable. If you love cannoli filling, this pie delivers that experience in every bite, with less effort and equally satisfying results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe captures authentic cannoli flavor in an easy-to-serve pie. It is no-bake, make-ahead friendly, and elegant enough for special occasions while remaining simple to prepare.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ingredients Breakdown

Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta is the heart of this pie. It provides the signature cannoli flavor and a creamy yet slightly airy texture. Draining it well ensures a thick, smooth filling.

Cream Cheese
Cream cheese adds structure and richness, helping the filling hold its shape while remaining silky.

Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the filling without adding graininess, keeping the texture smooth.

Vanilla Extract
Vanilla enhances the sweetness and rounds out the dairy flavors.

Orange Zest
Orange zest adds a subtle citrus aroma that is classic in cannoli filling and brightens the overall flavor.

Mini Chocolate Chips
Mini chocolate chips provide texture and a touch of indulgence in every bite.

Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is whipped and folded in to lighten the filling and give it a mousse-like consistency.

Graham Cracker or Cannoli-Style Crust
The crust provides contrast and stability. A lightly sweet crust complements the creamy filling perfectly.

Ground Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and reinforces the traditional cannoli flavor profile.

Directions

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Begin by draining the ricotta thoroughly using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth. This step is essential for a thick and stable filling.

In a large bowl, beat the ricotta and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and cinnamon, mixing until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture, taking care to keep the filling light and airy.

Fold in the mini chocolate chips evenly. Spoon the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up for clean slices.

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 slices. Preparation takes approximately 25 minutes, with a minimum chilling time of 4 hours. Total time is about 4 hours and 25 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store Italian Cannoli Cream Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dessert is served cold and does not require reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Italian Cannoli Cream Pie is easy to customize while keeping its classic character. For added texture, sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds over the top just before serving. This adds crunch and visual appeal.

If you prefer a chocolate-forward version, drizzle melted chocolate over the crust before adding the filling. This creates a subtle chocolate layer that pairs beautifully with the ricotta cream.

For a lighter citrus note, add a small amount of lemon zest alongside the orange zest. If you enjoy spice, a pinch of nutmeg can be added with the cinnamon.

You can also prepare this pie in individual dessert cups for elegant, single-serving presentations that are perfect for entertaining.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dessert contains dairy and chocolate and provides a rich source of fats and carbohydrates. Portions should be enjoyed in moderation due to its creamy nature.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Drain ricotta thoroughly
Removing excess moisture ensures a firm, sliceable pie.

Fold gently
Careful folding keeps the filling light and airy.

Chill completely
Proper chilling is key for structure and flavor development.

FAQs

Does this pie taste like traditional cannoli?

Yes, it closely mirrors classic cannoli filling flavor.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, it is ideal for preparing a day in advance.

Can I use part-skim ricotta?

Yes, but full-fat ricotta provides the best texture.

Is this a baked pie?

No, it is a no-bake dessert.

Can I freeze cannoli cream pie?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

What crust works best?

Graham cracker or cannoli-style crusts both work well.

Can I omit the chocolate chips?

Yes, they are optional.

How do I prevent a watery filling?

Drain the ricotta very well before mixing.

Can I pipe the filling?

Yes, for decorative or individual servings.

Is this dessert overly sweet?

No, it is balanced and lightly sweet.

Conclusion

Italian Cannoli Cream Pie is a refined yet approachable dessert that captures the essence of a classic Italian pastry in an easy-to-make format. With its creamy texture, delicate citrus notes, and chocolate-studded filling, it is a crowd-pleasing option for any occasion. This recipe delivers elegance, comfort, and tradition in every slice.

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