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There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when you decide to whip up something a little different, and these Cannoli Cupcakes are just the treat to elevate any gathering. Inspired by the classic Italian dessert, this delightful twist combines all the rich flavors of cannoli into a light, fluffy cupcake topped with a creamy mascarpone frosting.

After a long week, I had been craving a little indulgence but didn’t want to head out for overpriced sweets. That’s when I remembered some ricotta and chocolate chips sitting in my fridge, begging to be used. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, I found myself on a culinary adventure. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, making it impossible to eat just one!

Perfect for parties, cozy nights at home, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, these cupcakes have quickly become my go-to dessert. If you’re looking to impress your friends or simply treat yourself to something special, grab your apron and let’s get baking!

Why are Cannoli Cupcakes so irresistible?

Indulgent flavors: These cupcakes capture the classic taste of cannoli in a fun, bite-sized form.
Simple preparation: With just a few steps, you can create a decadent dessert that feels gourmet.
Light and fluffy: The cupcake base is delightfully soft, balancing perfectly with the creamy mascarpone frosting.
Versatile enjoyment: Whether for a party or a solo treat, these cupcakes cater to every occasion.
Crowd-pleasing: They’re a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone asking for seconds, making it a must-try in your baking repertoire!

Cannoli Cupcake Ingredients

Let’s gather everything we need to create these deliciously decadent Cannoli Cupcakes!

For the Cupcakes

Unsalted butter – 6 tablespoons, at room temperature for a creamy base.
Sugar – 1/2 cup, to sweeten and add moisture.
Light brown sugar – 1/4 cup, loosely packed for a hint of caramel flavor.
Sour cream – 6 tablespoons, adds richness and tanginess.
Pure vanilla extract – 1 1/2 teaspoons, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Egg whites – 3 large, at room temperature, creates a light texture.
All purpose flour – 1 1/4 cups, the foundation for a fluffy cupcake.
Baking powder – 2 teaspoons, for that perfect rise.
Ground cinnamon – 1/4 teaspoon, adds a warm spice note.
Salt – 1/4 teaspoon, balances sweetness perfectly.
Milk – 6 tablespoons, at room temperature to combine evenly.
Water – 2 tablespoons, at room temperature to maintain moisture.

For the Frosting

Mascarpone cheese – 2 cups, at room temperature for a creamy texture.
Confectioners’ sugar – 2 cups, sweetens and thickens the frosting.
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, deepening the flavor of the frosting.
Mini chocolate chips – Perfect for topping and a sweet surprise in every bite!

With these ingredients gathered, you’re one step closer to making some scrumptious Cannoli Cupcakes that will surely satisfy your cravings!

How to Make Cannoli Cupcakes

Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a standard cupcake pan and line it with cupcake liners to make cleanup a breeze!
Cream Together: In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter, sugar, and light brown sugar together. Beat for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light in color and fluffy. Add in the sour cream and pure vanilla extract, mixing well!
Add Egg Whites: Carefully add 1 of the egg whites into the butter mixture and blend until fully incorporated. Follow up with the remaining 2 egg whites, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined!
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. These will help your cupcakes rise beautifully!
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: In a small measuring cup, mix together the milk and water. Gradually add half of your dry flour mixture to the batter and blend. Then, incorporate the milk solution, followed by the other half of the dry mixture. Mix everything until well combined, scraping the bowl sides as needed!
Fill and Bake: Carefully fill the cupcake liners halfway with the batter. Bake your cupcakes for 15 to 17 minutes, until you can insert a toothpick and it comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool them for 2 to 3 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Prepare Frosting: In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract together on medium-low speed until smooth. Ensure you don’t overbeat—just mix until fully combined for a perfect, creamy texture!
Decorate: Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, pipe the mascarpone frosting on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle mini chocolate chips for a delightful finish! Dust the tops with powdered sugar if you want an extra touch of sweetness.

Optional: Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve for a refreshing treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cannoli Cupcakes

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially butter, sour cream, and egg whites, are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and fluffier cupcakes.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, so be gentle!
Frosting Consistency: Be careful not to overbeat the mascarpone frosting. It should be creamy but not overly thin. If it gets too watery, try chilling it for a bit.
Cooling Time: Allow your cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the icing from melting and keeps it beautifully intact!
Storage Tips: Store your finished Cannoli Cupcakes in the refrigerator until serving. Enjoy them at room temperature for the best flavor and texture!

How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Cupcakes

Fridge: Store your Cannoli Cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and moist.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy them later, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Once you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and frost before serving.

Reheating: For room temperature enjoyment, take the cupcakes out of the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors of the mascarpone frosting.

Wrapping: If storing in the fridge, wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.

Make Ahead Options

These Cannoli Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cupcake base up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow them to cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their fluffy texture. If you want to prep the frosting, it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just mix it gently before using to restore its creamy consistency. When you’re ready to enjoy your cupcakes, frost them, add the mini chocolate chips, and dust with confectioners’ sugar for that fresh, restaurant-quality touch. By prepping these delightful treats ahead of time, you’ll save yourself valuable minutes on busy weeknights!

Cannoli Cupcakes Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful alternatives to make your Cannoli Cupcakes even more special and to suit your taste!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it has xanthan gum for proper texture.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free sour cream alternative. The result will still be deliciously creamy!
Chocolate Delight: Fold in a half cup of cocoa powder into the cupcake batter for a rich, chocolaty version. These double chocolate treats are sure to please any chocolate lover!
Nutty Flavor: Add 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios or walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch that nods to traditional cannoli.
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to brighten the flavors. It adds a refreshing twist to the classic taste!
Mini Cupcakes: Bake mini versions by reducing the baking time to about 10-12 minutes. Perfect for bite-sized treats during gatherings!
Spicy Kick: Enhance flavor with a pinch of cayenne pepper in the frosting for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Caramel Drizzle: To elevate your frosting, drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving. It adds gorgeous layers of flavor and a touch of elegance!

What to Serve with Cannoli Cupcakes?

Create a delightful dessert experience with these wonderful pairings that enhance every bite of your cupcakes.

Espresso Martini: The rich, bold flavors of espresso and vodka provide a sophisticated pairing that plays beautifully against the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Italian Cream Soda: A refreshing, fizzy treat with a hint of vanilla elevates the dessert experience while balancing the richness of the frosting.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a tart contrast that brightens the sweetness of the cupcakes, offering a pop of color and flavor!
Gelato: Serve a scoop of creamy gelato alongside for an Italian touch that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the cannoli.
Pistachio Biscotti: The nutty flavors and crunchy texture serve as a delightful contrast to the soft cupcakes, providing a lovely bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top adds an indulgent touch, enhancing the chocolate chips already in your cupcakes.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a light and airy counterpart to the richness of the mascarpone frosting.
Almond Liqueur: A splash of Amaretto or Frangelico will deepen the flavor and add a nutty sweetness, perfect for an adult dessert.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee brings out the sweet flavors of the cupcakes while providing a comforting finish to a delightful meal.

Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for Cannoli Cupcakes?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, choose fresh mascarpone cheese, avoiding any containers with dark spots or that are nearing their expiration date. For eggs, pick ones that are as close to their use-by date as possible, ensuring freshness. The butter should be soft but not melted, which helps in creating that perfect fluffy texture. When it comes to sugar, using fine granulated sugar provides a better integration into the batter.

How should I store leftover Cannoli Cupcakes?
To keep your Cannoli Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, they’ll maintain their moist and fluffy texture. If you’re short on storage space, individually wrap them in plastic wrap to prevent drying out or absorbing any odors from your fridge.

Can I freeze Cannoli Cupcakes?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Cannoli Cupcakes, it’s best to freeze them without the frosting. Place the unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, storing them for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost them just before serving.

What if my batter is too thick?
If you find your Cannoli Cupcake batter appears too thick, don’t worry! You can gently add a little more milk or water—start with one tablespoon at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. Remember, a light and creamy batter will yield the fluffiest cupcakes!

Are Cannoli Cupcakes suitable for people with allergies?
When considering dietary restrictions, keep in mind that Cannoli Cupcakes contain gluten, dairy, and eggs. If you need to make them gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free option, try using dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting and coconut milk for the cupcake batter, though this may change the flavor profile slightly. Always check your specific ingredients for any potential allergens!