The aroma of freshly baked sugar cones wafts through my kitchen, transporting me to bustling Italian bakeries filled with sweet delights. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a classic dessert with a twist: the Italian Cannoli Cream Pie with Crunchy Sugar Cone Crust. This pie brings all the creamy goodness of traditional cannoli, featuring a luscious filling of mascarpone, ricotta, and a hint of warm cinnamon, effortlessly combined in a unique crust that adds a delightful chew. Not only is this dessert a show-stopper for celebrations, but it’s also surprisingly quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or entertaining friends, you’ll love the refreshing take on a beloved favorite. Ready to embark on this delicious adventure? Let’s dive in! Why is this Cannoli Cream Pie special? Unique Twist: This Italian Cannoli Cream Pie reimagines a classic dessert with a delightful sugar cone crust that offers a surprising chew. Decadent Filling: A smooth blend of mascarpone and ricotta, lightly sweetened and spiced with cinnamon, makes every bite irresistible. Quick and Easy: Surprisingly simple to prepare, this pie is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Versatile Options: Whether you want a frozen version or to mix in dried fruit for a twist, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for gatherings or special occasions, this dessert is sure to wow your family and friends just like Pot Angel Chicken or Chicken Alfredo Pasta. Italian Cannoli Cream Pie Ingredients • As you gather your ingredients, get ready for a delightful culinary experience that will transport you straight to Italy! For the Filling Heavy Cream – Provides the structure and richness to the filling; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Mascarpone Cheese – Adds creaminess and flavor depth; can be swapped with additional cream cheese in case of unavailability. Cream Cheese – Acts as a stabilizer in the filling; ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling; can be replaced with granulated sugar, but texture may vary. Ricotta Cheese – Contributes a chunky texture and traditional flavor; whole milk ricotta is recommended for best results. Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; optional but recommended for added depth. Orange Zest – Provides a citrusy aroma and brightness; use zest from one half of an orange. Cinnamon – Adds warmth and complexity; adjust quantity to taste; nutmeg can be used as an alternative. For the Toppings Mini Chocolate Chips – Used as a topping for added sweetness and texture; dark chocolate chips can be substituted. Chopped Pistachios – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor; almonds or walnuts can be used if preferred. For the Crust Sugar Cone Crust – Serves as a unique pie base, offering a chewy texture; regular pie crust serves as a traditional alternative. Butter – Binds the crust together; a vegan butter alternative can be used for a dairy-free version. Now that you have everything you need, let’s continue our delicious journey and whip up this Italian Cannoli Cream Pie! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Cannoli Cream Pie Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Cone Crust Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, crush sugar cones until finely ground, then mix them with melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie plate, ensuring a solid base. Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely before adding the filling. Step 2: Make the Italian Cannoli Cream Filling In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy cream using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Reserve 2 cups of this whipped cream aside; it will be folded into the filling later. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone and cream cheese, beating them together until creamy and well blended before proceeding with the next ingredients. Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients Gradually add powdered sugar to the mascarpone mixture while continuing to beat until smooth. Next, fold in ricotta cheese, pure vanilla extract, orange zest, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, mixing until everything is well incorporated. The filling should be creamy, light, and slightly sweet—perfect for our Italian Cannoli Cream Pie. Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Cream Gently fold the reserved whipped cream into the filling mixture using a spatula, taking care not to deflate the cream. Use smooth, sweeping motions until the filling looks airy and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps. This step is crucial for achieving the light texture reminiscent of traditional cannoli. Step 5: Fill the Crust Carefully pour the cannoli cream filling into the cooled sugar cone crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure to create a smooth top to give the pie an appealing finish. Once filled, the pie is ready for the final touches, so set it aside while you prepare for the toppings. Step 6: Add the Toppings In a small bowl, whisk some powdered sugar into the reserved whipped cream until fully integrated, then pipe or dollop it around the edge of the pie for decoration. Sprinkle chopped pistachios and mini chocolate chips over the top for added crunch and sweetness. The Italian Cannoli Cream Pie is now beautifully adorned and ready to chill. Step 7: Chill and Serve Refrigerate the completed Italian Cannoli Cream Pie for at least 4 hours, allowing the filling to set and flavors to meld. When ready to serve, slice into the pie with a sharp knife for clean portions. Enjoy this delightful twist on a classic Italian dessert with friends or family—it’s sure to impress! Make Ahead Options These Italian Cannoli Cream Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the sugar cone crust up to 3 days in advance; just store it covered at room temperature to maintain its crunch. The cannoli cream filling can also be made ahead—mix it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before assembling the pie. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the crust with the chilled filling, add the whipped cream topping, and garnish with chocolate chips and pistachios. This way, you can enjoy a delightful dessert with minimal effort, making your time in the kitchen a breeze! Storage Tips for Italian Cannoli Cream Pie Fridge: Keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Freezer: Individual slices can be frozen for 4-6 weeks. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: Thaw the frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best results, ensuring the filling remains creamy. Serving Suggestion: For a delightful experience, pair leftovers with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of fresh fruit! What to Serve with Italian Cannoli Cream Pie Indulging in this rich dessert opens the door to a world of delightful pairings that can elevate your dining experience. Rich Espresso: The bold flavors of espresso provide a perfect balance to the creamy sweetness of the pie, enhancing every bite. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing tartness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cannoli cream. Pistachio Gelato: This nutty, creamy treat mirrors the crunchy toppings and complements the flavors of the cannoli pie, creating a heavenly dessert duo. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice brings a touch of decadence, making the experience even more indulgent. Italian Dessert Wine: A sweet Moscato or Vin Santo pairs delightfully, accentuating the pie’s flavors while providing a sophisticated touch. Crushed Biscotti: Scatter some crushed biscotti on top for added crunch and a nod to traditional Italian treats, enhancing texture and taste. Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves serve as a refreshing garnish, cleansing the palate and adding a hint of herbal brightness. Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream makes the serving extravagant and adds to the dessert’s lusciousness. Italian Cannoli Cream Pie Variations Feel free to make this Italian Cannoli Cream Pie your own by experimenting with various swaps and additions that excite your taste buds. Frozen Delight: For a Frozen Italian Cannoli Pie, omit powdered sugar in the filling and use sweetened condensed milk instead. Freeze for 6 to 8 hours before enjoying the chilled bliss. Fruit Fusion: Substitute mini chocolate chips with dried fruits like cherries or raisins for a burst of sweetness and chewy texture. This fruity twist brings a lovely contrast to the creamy filling. Nutty Flavor: Try using chopped almonds or walnuts instead of pistachios for a different layer of crunch and flavor. Nuts add a delightful heartiness to every bite! Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cream cheese for a scrumptious Dairy-Free Cannoli Pie. You won’t miss the traditional ingredients with this creamy, tropical twist. Spice it Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or swap cinnamon for cardamom to bring a warm and unique flavor profile to the filling. These spices create an aromatic depth that makes each slice unforgettable. Chocolate Indulgence: Fold in cocoa powder into the filling for a Chocolate Cannoli Cream Pie. This version adds an irresistible chocolatey richness, making it a decadent addition to your dessert repertoire. Zesty Twist: Incorporate additional orange zest or even a splash of limoncello liqueur for an extra boost of citrus brightness. The zingy flavor will elevate your pie to a new level of deliciousness! With these variations, your Italian Cannoli Cream Pie can become a delightful and unique creation every time. Celebrate its versatility like you would with a satisfying bowl of Italian Tortellini Pasta or enjoy it as an indulgent treat paired with Honey Pepper Chicken. Your dessert table will thank you! Expert Tips for Italian Cannoli Cream Pie Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy components, like mascarpone and cream cheese, are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother filling. Chill Time Matters: For the best texture and flavor, allow the pie to chill for at least 4 hours. This helps the filling firm up nicely. Avoid Overmixing: When folding in the whipped cream, use gentle motions to prevent deflating it. This step is key to achieving a light, airy filling for your Italian Cannoli Cream Pie. Sugar Cone Alternatives: If sugar cones are unavailable, a traditional pie crust can be used, though it won’t have the same delightful texture. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the spices or add a touch of almond extract for a unique spin on this classic dessert! Italian Cannoli Cream Pie Recipe FAQs What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for my Italian Cannoli Cream Pie? Absolutely! For the best flavors, choose high-quality mascarpone and ricotta cheese; look for brands that have a smooth consistency and minimal additives. When selecting heavy cream, ensure it has at least 36% fat content for the best whipping results. If you’re zesting an orange, use one that’s firm, with a bright color and no dark spots, indicating freshness and flavor. How long can I store my Italian Cannoli Cream Pie in the refrigerator? You can keep your Italian Cannoli Cream Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s essential to cover it well to prevent the filling from absorbing any odors from other foods. If you’re serving it at a gathering, I recommend doing so within the first couple of days for optimal freshness! Can I freeze my Italian Cannoli Cream Pie, and what’s the best method? Certainly! You can freeze individual slices of your Italian Cannoli Cream Pie for 4-6 weeks. Wrap each slice tight in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Enjoy it with a drizzle of chocolate or fresh fruit for an extra touch! What should I do if my whipped cream isn’t forming stiff peaks? No worries! If your whipped cream isn’t forming stiff peaks, make sure you’re using chilled heavy cream and a clean bowl—a sprinkle of cornstarch can help stabilize it as well. If you’ve overwhipped it and it’s turning grainy, gently fold in a tablespoon of fresh cream to smooth it out. Just be careful not to deflate the mixture too much! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind while making this recipe? Indeed! If you’re serving this Italian Cannoli Cream Pie to guests with dietary restrictions, consider using dairy alternatives, like coconut cream for the filling, and ensure that the sugar cone crust is gluten-free, if necessary. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens, especially when cooking for guests with allergies to nuts, dairy, or gluten. What’s the difference between making a traditional Cannoli filling versus the Cream Pie version? Great question! The traditional Cannoli filling is typically made with ricotta, but for the pie, we incorporate mascarpone for a creamier, richer texture. Additionally, the pie format allows for more flexibility with flavors and textures, created with the sugar cone crust and the layered whipped cream topping, making it a uniquely delicious dessert experience! Delicious Italian Cannoli Cream Pie with Sugar Cone Crust Enjoy a refreshing Italian Cannoli Cream Pie featuring a unique sugar cone crust that boasts a creamy mascarpone and ricotta filling. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsChill Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 25 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: ItalianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.1 cup Mascarpone Cheese Can be swapped with additional cream cheese.8 oz Cream Cheese Ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.1/2 cup Powdered Sugar Can be replaced with granulated sugar.15 oz Ricotta Cheese Whole milk ricotta is recommended.1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract Optional but recommended for added depth.1 Tbsp Orange Zest Use zest from half an orange.1/2 tsp Cinnamon Adjust quantity to taste; nutmeg can be used as an alternative.For the Toppings1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips Dark chocolate chips can be substituted.1/4 cup Chopped Pistachios Almonds or walnuts can be used if preferred.For the Crust12 cones Sugar Cone Crust Regular pie crust serves as a traditional alternative.1/2 cup Butter A vegan butter alternative can be used. Equipment Food ProcessorMixing bowlsElectric mixerPie Plate Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, crush sugar cones until finely ground, then mix with melted butter. Press evenly into a 9-inch pie plate. Bake for 5 minutes and let cool completely.In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, about 4-5 minutes. Reserve 2 cups of whipped cream. In another bowl, combine mascarpone and cream cheese until creamy and well blended.Gradually add powdered sugar to the mascarpone mixture while continuing to beat until smooth. Fold in ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, orange zest, and cinnamon until well incorporated.Gently fold the reserved whipped cream into the filling mixture until airy and well combined.Pour the cannoli cream filling into the cooled sugar cone crust, spreading evenly. Set aside while preparing the toppings.Whisk powdered sugar into the reserved whipped cream, then pipe around the edge of the pie for decoration. Sprinkle chopped pistachios and mini chocolate chips on top.Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set the filling. Slice and serve chilled. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all dairy components are at room temperature for easier mixing. Allow the pie to chill for at least 4 hours for the best texture and flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
