Cannoli Sheet Cake
Introduction
Cannoli Sheet Cake is a delicious fusion of classic Italian cannoli flavors and a soft, moist vanilla cake. It delivers the creamy ricotta filling, hints of cinnamon and citrus, and chocolatey bites of a traditional cannoli—without the time and effort of frying pastry shells.
Ingredients
White or vanilla cake mix – 1 box (plus required eggs, oil, and water)
Whole milk ricotta cheese – 15 oz, well drained
Mascarpone cheese – 8 oz (or softened cream cheese)
Powdered sugar – 1½ cups, sifted
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon – ¼ teaspoon
Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips – 1 cup, divided
Crushed cannoli shells or pistachios – ½ cup (optional garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the cake mix according to package directions.
Bake in a 9 × 13 inch pan and allow the cake to cool completely.
Drain the ricotta thoroughly using cheesecloth or a fine sieve.
In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone and ricotta until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Fold in half of the mini chocolate chips by hand.
Spread the ricotta frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips and optional garnish on top.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
How to Make
Ensure the ricotta is very dry to maintain a thick frosting.
Use an offset spatula to create a smooth, bakery-style finish.
Always use mini chocolate chips for better distribution.
Chill the cake before slicing for clean, neat pieces.
Serve cold for the best flavor and texture.
Variations
Add fresh orange zest for a classic citrus cannoli flavor
Mix chopped pistachios into the frosting for nutty richness
Create a poke cake by adding sweetened condensed milk
Use chocolate cake instead of vanilla for a twist
Pipe the frosting for a decorative, bakery-style presentation
Tips
Drain ricotta thoroughly to prevent a runny topping.
Never frost a warm cake.
Use mascarpone for extra richness and structure.
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator.
Garnish just before serving for the freshest look.
Conclusion
Cannoli Sheet Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that blends ease with elegance. With authentic cannoli flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a show-stopping dessert with minimal effort.