Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe

If you adore the creamy richness of tiramisu and the crispy delight of cannoli, this Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe is your dream dessert come true. It magically combines the best of both worlds into one luscious, layered treat that requires just seven simple ingredients and an easy overnight chill. Imagine biting into delicate ladyfingers soaked in espresso, blanketed with a dreamy blend of ricotta, mascarpone, and chocolate chips—this recipe brings an irresistible Italian-American flair right to your kitchen with minimal fuss but maximum flavor impact.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and richness. From the silky cheeses to the crisp ladyfingers soaking up espresso, you’ll see how these essentials come together beautifully without any complicated extras.

• 1¾ cups heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks, this adds airy lightness to the creamy filling.
• 15 ounces full-fat ricotta cheese: Drained if watery, it brings a rich, slightly grainy texture typical of cannoli filling.
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese: Smooth and buttery, mascarpone helps mimic the classic tiramisu creaminess.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the mixture just right without grittiness.
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips: Tiny bursts of chocolate throughout the filling add delightful texture and flavor.
• 7 ounces ladyfingers (about 24): These light, crisp biscuits soak up espresso perfectly without turning to mush.
• 1 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled: Adds authentic coffee flavor that defines tiramisu.

How to Make Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe

Step 1: Make the Filling

Start by whipping the heavy cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form—this is your base for a fluffy, luxe texture. In a separate bowl, beat together the ricotta, mascarpone, and powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Then gently fold the whipped cream and mini chocolate chips into this mixture, creating the signature rich yet airy filling that perfectly nods to both tiramisu and cannoli traditions.

Step 2: Dip and Layer Ladyfingers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso—just a brief dunk so they absorb coffee flavor but stay firm enough to hold their shape. Layer half of these dipped ladyfingers evenly on the bottom of your baking dish. This step forms the flavorful, coffee-soaked foundation that makes this Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe truly special.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Spread half of your luscious cannoli cream across the ladyfingers, smoothing it gently to cover every bite. Then repeat the dipping and layering process with the remaining ladyfingers, topping everything off with the remaining filling. This double layer approach maximizes the cream-to-cookie ratio, promising every forkful is a luscious blend of textures and flavors.

Step 4: Chill and Finish

Cover your dish and refrigerate for at least four hours or preferably overnight. This chilling step is crucial—it lets the flavors meld and the texture set to a perfect softness, reminiscent of a traditional tiramisu but with a delightful cannoli twist. Right before serving, sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips on top and if you like, a dusting of powdered sugar to add a baker’s finishing touch.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe

Garnishes

Keep it classic by sprinkling mini chocolate chips or dusting powdered sugar over the top just before serving, adding a lovely visual contrast and a hint of extra sweetness. For a fresh touch, consider some finely grated dark chocolate or a few coffee beans for decoration.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a light espresso or a dessert wine like Vin Santo. Fresh berries on the side can cut through the richness, providing a juicy, tangy contrast that brightens the palate after each creamy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Serve this tiramisu cannoli in individual glasses or small cups instead of a baking dish, layering the components for an elegant trifecta effect. You could also pipe the filling into crisp cannoli shells for a handheld, impressive variation of the Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled and chilled, cover your tiramisu cannoli tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, maintaining its flavors and textures for several enjoyment-filled servings.

Freezing

While freezing this dessert is possible, it’s best enjoyed fresh or after chilled storage. Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the creamy filling and ladyfingers once thawed, so if you do freeze, allow it to thaw gradually in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

This dessert is best served cold right out of the fridge. Reheating is not recommended as it would compromise the creamy texture and the delicate coffee flavor, which are key characteristics of the Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie instead of ladyfingers?

Absolutely! While ladyfingers are traditional and ideal for their absorbency and structure, you could experiment with other crisp biscuits. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to soak espresso without falling apart.

Is mascarpone cheese necessary? Can I substitute it?

Mascarpone adds that smooth, buttery richness essential to tiramisu’s texture. If you can’t find it, mixing cream cheese with a bit of heavy cream can be a workable substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How long should I soak the ladyfingers in espresso?

Just a quick dip is best—about 1 to 2 seconds—to avoid soggy ladyfingers. The goal is to infuse them with coffee flavor while keeping their shape and slight firmness.

Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?

This version relies heavily on dairy products for authenticity and texture, but vegan substitutes like coconut cream, vegan mascarpone alternatives, and dairy-free ladyfingers could be tried with some recipe adjustments.

What makes this a Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe and not just tiramisu or cannoli?

This recipe cleverly combines the coffee-soaked layers of tiramisu with the ricotta-based, chocolate chip-filled cannoli cream, creating a unique hybrid dessert that celebrates the best qualities of both.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sinking your spoon into this luscious Tiramisu Cannoli Recipe that marries two beloved Italian desserts into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, it’s guaranteed to impress and delight. Don’t wait—give it a try and share the magic with friends and family!