Chocolate

Chocolate Cannoli

Name: Chocolate Cannoli
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 120 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (120g) confectioners' sugar; 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon fine salt; 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (120g) sweetened ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup (60g) dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup (30g) milk chocolate chips; Vegetable oil for frying

By Kaia Jardine · June 19, 2026 · Chocolate

Prep30 min

Cook10 min

Total120 min

Serves12

Chocolate Cannoli — Crispy, chocolatey, and irresistible

There's something special about biting into a crispy, chocolate-dipped cannoli shell, feeling the gentle crunch give way to a creamy, dreamy filling. For years, I've been perfecting my chocolate cannoli recipe, and I'm excited to share it with you. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

I remember the first time I tried making cannoli at home. The shells were a disaster - soggy and flavorless. But I didn't give up. I experimented with different types of flour, frying techniques, and chocolate tempering methods until I landed on the perfect combination. Now, I'm happy to share my secrets with you, so you can enjoy these delicious treats in the comfort of your own home.

What makes this recipe special is the combination of traditional Italian techniques with modern twists and easy-to-find ingredients. You don't need to be an expert pastry chef to make these cannoli; just follow the steps, and you'll be rewarded with a dessert that's sure to impress your friends and family.

So, who is this recipe for? Anyone who loves chocolate, Italian desserts, or is looking for a fun and rewarding baking project. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, you'll find that this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal special equipment.

When would you make these chocolate cannoli? Any time you want to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth. They're perfect for holidays, parties, or as a special treat after dinner. So, let's get started and make some delicious chocolate cannoli!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chocolate cannoli are easy to make and require minimal special equipment.
The combination of crispy shells and creamy chocolate filling is irresistible.
You can customize the filling with your favorite flavors, such as nuts or citrus zest.
They're perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
The recipe makes a large batch, so you can share with friends and family or freeze for later.
The chocolate cannoli are relatively low in calories compared to other desserts, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great chocolate cannoli is in the details. First, you need to start with the right type of flour. I use a combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch to give the shells their signature crunch. Then, it's all about the frying technique. You want to heat the oil to the right temperature, so the shells fry up golden and crispy, not greasy or soggy.

Another important aspect is the chocolate filling. I use a combination of dark and milk chocolate for the perfect balance of flavors. And, of course, you can't forget the tempering process. Tempering the chocolate gives it a smooth, glossy finish that's essential for a professional-looking dessert.

Finally, it's all about the assembly. You want to fill the shells just before serving, so they stay crispy. And, don't forget to dust them with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious chocolate cannoli, you'll need a few special ingredients, including sweetened ricotta cheese, dark chocolate, and confectioners' sugar. Don't worry if you can't find these ingredients in your local grocery store; you can easily order them online or substitute with similar products.

When shopping for ingredients, make sure to choose high-quality products, such as fresh cheese and real chocolate. These will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of your cannoli.

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flourI use a high-protein flour, such as bread flour or all-purpose flour with a high protein content, to give the shells their structure and texture.
1 cup (120g) confectioners' sugarConfectioners' sugar is essential for dusting the cannoli shells and giving them a smooth, sweet finish.
1/2 cup (60g) cornstarchCornstarch helps to absorb excess moisture and gives the shells their signature crunch.
1/4 teaspoon fine saltA small amount of salt enhances the flavor of the shells and helps to balance the sweetness of the filling.
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milkWhole milk adds moisture and tenderness to the shells, while also helping to create a smooth, creamy filling.
2 large eggsEggs provide structure and richness to the shells, while also helping to bind the filling ingredients together.
1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugarGranulated sugar adds sweetness and tenderness to the shells, while also helping to balance the flavor of the filling.
1/2 cup (120g) sweetened ricotta cheeseSweetened ricotta cheese is the base of the filling, providing a creamy, sweet, and tangy flavor.
1/2 cup (60g) dark chocolate chipsDark chocolate chips add a rich, intense flavor to the filling, while also providing a smooth, creamy texture.
1/4 cup (30g) milk chocolate chipsMilk chocolate chips add a sweet, creamy flavor to the filling, while also helping to balance the intensity of the dark chocolate.
Vegetable oil for fryingVegetable oil is used for frying the cannoli shells, providing a crispy, golden exterior and a tender interior.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlHand mixer or whiskMeasuring cups and spoonsElectric fryer or deep frying panInstant-read thermometerPiping bag and tipBaking sheet lined with parchment paper

How to Make Chocolate Cannoli

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, confectioners' sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and granulated sugar until well combined and smooth.
3
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5
Heat the vegetable oil in an electric fryer or deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6
Once the oil is hot, use a piping bag and tip to pipe the dough into long, thin strips. Fry the strips for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7
Remove the fried shells from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8
In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened ricotta cheese, dark chocolate chips, and milk chocolate chips. Mix until smooth and creamy.
9
Fill the cooled cannoli shells with the chocolate filling, using a piping bag and tip to pipe the filling into the shells.
10
Dust the filled cannoli with confectioners' sugar and serve immediately.
11
If desired, garnish with chopped nuts or citrus zest for added flavor and texture.

Expert Tips

Make sure to not overmix the dough, as this can cause the shells to become tough and dense.
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature, as this is crucial for frying the shells.
Don't overfill the shells, as this can cause them to become too heavy and fall apart.
Experiment with different flavors, such as nuts or citrus zest, to add unique twists to the filling.
If you don't have an electric fryer, you can use a deep frying pan with at least 3-4 inches of oil.
To freeze the shells, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen shells to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
To reheat the shells, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not using the right type of flour, which can result in shells that are too dense or too delicate.
Overmixing the dough, which can cause the shells to become tough and dense.
Not heating the oil to the correct temperature, which can result in shells that are greasy or undercooked.
Overfilling the shells, which can cause them to become too heavy and fall apart.
Not tempering the chocolate, which can result in a filling that is too soft or too hard.
Not dusting the shells with confectioners' sugar, which can make them look dull and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Add nuts or citrus zest to the filling for added flavor and texture.
Use different types of chocolate, such as white or bittersweet, to change the flavor of the filling.
Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the filling for added flavor.
Use a flavored oil, such as olive or coconut oil, to add a unique flavor to the shells.
Add a pinch of salt to the filling to balance the sweetness of the chocolate.
Use a different type of cheese, such as mascarpone or cream cheese, to change the flavor and texture of the filling.

What to Serve With Chocolate Cannoli

These chocolate cannoli are perfect for serving at parties, special occasions, or as a sweet treat any time of the year. You can serve them on their own, or pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

Some other ideas for serving the cannoli include pairing them with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or grapes, or with a scoop of ice cream. You could also serve them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for added flavor and texture.

Serve the cannoli with a cup of coffee or tea.Pair the cannoli with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or grapes.Serve the cannoli with a scoop of ice cream.Drizzle the cannoli with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for added flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The filled cannoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze the shells and filling separately and assemble them just before serving.

To freeze the shells, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen shells to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

To freeze the filling, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When you're ready to assemble the cannoli, simply thaw the filling overnight in the refrigerator and fill the shells just before serving.

To reheat the shells, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of flour should I use to make the cannoli shells?

You should use a high-protein flour, such as bread flour or all-purpose flour with a high protein content, to give the shells their structure and texture.

How do I know if the oil is at the right temperature for frying the shells?

You can use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil. The ideal temperature for frying the shells is between 375°F (190°C) and 400°F (200°C).

Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese in the filling, such as mascarpone or cream cheese. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the filling may be slightly different.

How do I temper the chocolate for the filling?

To temper the chocolate, melt it in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Once the chocolate is melted, let it cool to around 82°F (28°C) to 86°F (30°C) before using it in the filling.

Can I freeze the filled cannoli?

Yes, you can freeze the filled cannoli, but it's best to freeze the shells and filling separately and assemble them just before serving. This will help to preserve the texture and flavor of the cannoli.

How do I store the cannoli shells?

You can store the cannoli shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.

Can I make the cannoli shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cannoli shells ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat the cannoli shells?

You can reheat the cannoli shells in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card