Tiramisu Cannoli brings together all the creamy, coffee-kissed layers of tiramisu with the sweet, ricotta-packed goodness of cannoli. It’s smooth, airy, and totally irresistible.
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What is Tiramisu Cannoli?
Cannoli tiramisu is a fusion of two iconic Italian desserts—tiramisu and cannoli—brought together in one dreamy, layered masterpiece. Instead of the traditional mascarpone and egg-based tiramisu filling, this version uses a rich and creamy cannoli-style filling made with ricotta and mascarpone cheese, then folds in whipped cream and mini chocolate chips for a texture that’s airy and luscious with just the right amount of crunchy, chocolatey goodness. Plus, espresso-soaked ladyfingers give it that unmistakable tiramisu flair.
This dessert is completely no-bake, making it a perfect make-ahead option for gatherings, dinner parties, or when you’re simply craving something sweet and special. It’s light yet satisfying, has just the right hint of coffee flavor, and the cannoli cream is perfectly balanced—sweet but not overpowering. A sprinkle of chocolate chips on top adds that final touch that makes each slice feel like something you’d find in a little Italian bakery.
Ingredients You Need
- Ladyfingers – These sponge-like cookies soak up espresso beautifully without falling apart.
- Mascarpone Cheese – This ultra-creamy Italian cheese adds a rich, slightly tangy flavor that blends smoothly into the filling. It gives the dessert that classic tiramisu feel.
- Full-Fat Ricotta Cheese – Ricotta brings that signature cannoli flavor to the mix. We recommend draining it if it’s watery for the best texture in the filling.
- Heavy Cream – This whips up into soft peaks to help lighten the filling. It makes the texture silky and airy, like a mousse.
- Powdered Sugar – This fine sugar adds sweetness without the graininess of regular sugar. It blends smoothly into the cheeses and cream for a consistent texture.
- Strong Brewed Espresso – Coffee flavor is key in tiramisu, and we love how espresso adds depth and richness. Make sure it’s cooled before using so the ladyfingers don’t get too soggy.
- Mini Chocolate Chips – These add little bursts of chocolate in every bite and mimic that classic cannoli finish. We also like to sprinkle extra on top for a pretty presentation.
How to Make Cannoli Tiramisu
- Whip the cream. Use a hand or stand mixer to beat the heavy cream until it’s fluffy and forms soft peaks.
- Make the rest of the filling. Stir together the ricotta, mascarpone, and powdered sugar in a separate bowl.
- Combine. Once the cheese and sugar mixture is smooth and creamy, gently fold the whipped cream into it. Then, stir in the mini chocolate chips for that classic cannoli texture.
- Soak the ladyfingers. Dip each one quickly into the espresso—just a second or two is enough. You want them soaked but still holding their shape.
- Assemble the tiramisu. Place a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of your dish, then spread on half of the cream mixture. Add another layer of espresso-dipped ladyfingers and the rest of the filling.
- Chill and top. Cover and refrigerate for several hours to let the flavors come together. Before serving, add more chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Variations
- Orange Zest – A bit of fresh zest stirred into the filling adds a bright, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with the ricotta.
- Liqueur – A little bit of coffee liqueur or amaretto in the espresso adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Chocolate – Try using dark chocolate chunks or white chocolate chips instead of mini chips for a twist.
- Pistachios – A sprinkle of chopped pistachios on top adds a nutty crunch and a pop of color.
- Gluten-free – Use gluten-free ladyfingers to make this dessert suitable for anyone avoiding gluten.
- Presentation – Assemble individual portions in mason jars or dessert cups for a fun and portable version.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Just know that the longer it sits, the softer the ladyfingers will become.
Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
You can freeze it for up to 1 month, though the texture of the cream may be slightly different when thawed.
Common Questions about Tiramisu Cannoli
Cannoli tiramisu combines the creamy filling of a cannoli with the layered espresso-soaked structure of tiramisu. It’s a mashup of two favorites that results in a totally new dessert!
The amount of espresso per serving is pretty small, but you can absolutely use decaf if you’re serving it to kids.
Nope! The filling is completely no-bake and comes together with just a hand mixer or spatula.
You can, but it will change the flavor slightly. Cream cheese has a tangier taste and a firmer texture than mascarpone.
More Twists on Tiramisu
You can never have too many tiramisu-style recipes! Here are a handful of our other favorite spins on the classic dessert.
Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe
Ingredients
- 1¾ cups heavy cream
- 15 ounces full-fat ricotta cheese drain if watery
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips plus more for topping
- 7 ounces ladyfingers about 24
- 1 cup strong brewed espresso cooled
Instructions
Make the filling:
- In a large bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta, mascarpone, and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in the whipped cream and mini chocolate chips until fully combined.1¾ cups heavy cream, 15 ounces full-fat ricotta cheese, 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, ½ cup mini chocolate chips
Dip and layer:
- Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso—just enough to soak without getting soggy. Layer half of them into the bottom of an 8×8 or 9×9 dish.7 ounces ladyfingers, 1 cup strong brewed espresso
Add the filling:
- Spread half of the cannoli cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat with remaining dipped ladyfingers and top with the rest of the cream.
Chill and finish:
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Just before serving, sprinkle with extra mini chocolate chips and optional powdered sugar for that bakery-style finish.
Equipment
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
