Okay, so imagine a cannoli, but even bigger and better. That creamy filling and sweet crunch turned into a whole cake. Yeah, it’s like a dream on a plate.

When I made it, the layers came out soft and rich, and the filling was smooth and sweet. The chocolate chips and ricotta mix gave every bite that classic cannoli taste. It felt like I was at an Italian bakery, but right at home.

I love that it looks super fancy, but it’s really not hard to put together. It’s the kind of cake that makes people stop and smile. And trust me, everyone will ask for seconds.

So if you want a dessert that feels special but easy enough to bake at home, this Cannoli Layer Cake is the one. Let’s jump in and make it step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent Cannoli Flavor: This cake gives you all the richness of a cannoli in a fun and shareable form.
Layers of Deliciousness: From fluffy cake layers to the creamy mascarpone filling and buttercream, each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Impressive Yet Simple: Though it looks stunning, this cannoli cake is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Be it a birthday, anniversary, or just a weekend treat, this cake will wow your guests and family alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the components of this cake in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy celebrations.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools on hand for a smooth baking experience:

Mixing Bowls: For mixing your dry and wet ingredients.
Electric Mixer (Hand or Stand): To easily cream the butter and mix the cake batter and buttercream.
9-inch Round Cake Pans (2 or 3): Depending on how many layers you want, you can either use two or three cake pans for your cake layers.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is key when baking, so make sure you have accurate measurements.
Cooling Rack: After baking your cake layers, you’ll want to cool them on a rack to avoid sogginess.
Spatulas and Scrapers: For frosting and spreading your cannoli filling evenly.
Cake Turntable (Optional): This can be helpful if you plan on decorating your cake with precision.

Ingredients

For the Cannoli Filling:

This filling is the key to bringing the classic cannoli flavor into the cake. It’s creamy, sweet, and perfectly balanced:

3/4 cup (189g/6 oz) ricotta cheese – Make sure to use well-drained ricotta for a creamy texture.
3/4 cup (170g/6 oz) mascarpone cheese – Mascarpone adds richness and a delicate sweetness.
1 1/3 cups (154g) powdered sugar – This gives the filling its sweet, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
1/4 cup (43g) mini chocolate chips – These add a little crunch and authentic cannoli flavor.

For the Cake Layers:

The cake layers are soft and fluffy with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla that complements the creamy filling. These are the ingredients you’ll need:

2 1/2 cups (325g) all-purpose flour – Properly measured for accurate texture and consistency.
2 tsp baking powder – To make the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
1/4 tsp baking soda – Works alongside the baking powder for a perfect rise.
1 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds warm spice that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
1/2 tsp salt – Enhances the sweetness of the cake.
1/2 cup (112g) unsalted butter, room temperature – The butter helps create a rich, tender crumb.
1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil – Adds moisture and ensures the cake stays soft.
1 cup (207g) sugar – Balances the flavors with sweetness.
1/2 cup (112g) light brown sugar – Adds a subtle caramel flavor that enhances the cake.
1 tbsp vanilla extract – For a deep, aromatic flavor.
4 large eggs – Helps provide structure and moisture to the cake.
1/2 cup (120ml) milk – Moistens the batter.
3/4 cup (173g) sour cream – Contributes to a moist, tender cake with a slight tang.

For the Buttercream:

The buttery, velvety mascarpone buttercream brings the whole cake together and is the perfect frosting for this decadent dessert:

1 cup (280g) unsalted butter, room temperature – For a creamy and smooth buttercream.
12 oz (339g) mascarpone cheese, cool but not cold – Gives the buttercream a rich, smooth texture and flavor.
8–9 cups (920g-1035g) powdered sugar – Adjust based on the desired consistency of the buttercream.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds flavor depth to the frosting.
1 cup (169g) mini chocolate chips – For decorating the cake and adding extra flavor.

Variations for Cannoli Layer Cake

This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Chocolate Cake Layers: If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, substitute the white cake layers with rich chocolate cake for a chocolate cannoli layer cake.
Fruit Add-ins: Consider adding diced candied orange peel to the cannoli filling for a citrusy twist or chopped pistachios for an extra crunch.
Filling Alternatives: If you love a more decadent filling, add a bit of heavy cream to the ricotta and mascarpone mixture for an even creamier texture.
Liqueur Infusion: Add a tablespoon of limoncello or amaretto to the buttercream or cake layers for an Italian flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cannoli Filling

Start by making the cannoli filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the well-drained ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and mini chocolate chips. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set it aside while you work on the cake layers. For best results, chill the filling in the fridge until it’s ready to be used.

2. Make the Cake Layers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Wet and Dry Ingredients

Start by adding a portion of the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, followed by the milk, sour cream, and the remaining dry ingredients. Mix gently until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

3. Make the Buttercream

While the cake layers are cooling, make the mascarpone buttercream. In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and mascarpone cheese together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the buttercream is too stiff, you can add a small amount of milk to loosen it up.

4. Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are fully cooled, it’s time to assemble the cake.

Place the first cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of the cannoli filling over the top.
Add the second cake layer on top of the filling. Frost the entire cake with the mascarpone buttercream, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Decorate the top of the cake with mini chocolate chips for that classic cannoli touch.

5. Chill and Serve

Place the assembled cake in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set the frosting and filling. Once it’s set, you can slice and serve this beautiful cannoli layer cake to your guests.

How to Serve Cannoli Layer Cake

This cake is perfect for all occasions, whether it’s a birthday, family gathering, or holiday celebration. Here are a few serving ideas:

Serve as a Centerpiece: Let this beautiful cake be the showstopper on your dessert table.
Pair with Coffee or Espresso: This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a shot of espresso, bringing out its rich flavors.
Top with Fresh Berries: Add fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries on top for a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness.

Storing Cannoli Layer Cake

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store your cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake layers will stay moist, and the filling will remain creamy.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Serving Size	Calories	Fat (g)	Carbs (g)	Protein (g)
1 Slice	430	21	56	6

Conclusion

This Cannoli Layer Cake is a decadent, flavorful dessert that brings the timeless taste of cannoli to life in cake form. With its creamy filling, tender cake layers, and irresistible mascarpone buttercream, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply treating yourself, this cake will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!