As the holidays approach, the scent of sweet treats wafts through the air, igniting memories of family gatherings and cozy celebrations. One of my all-time favorites is the irresistible Christmas Cannoli Cake—a delightful twist on a classic dessert that brings all the flavors of traditional cannoli straight to the table in cake form. Just imagine slicing into a moist cake, filled with the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese, accented by zesty orange or lemon, and dotted with rich chocolate chips.
This cake is not just an indulgent treat but a conversation starter that effortlessly brightens any festive occasion. I stumbled upon this gem during a holiday baking marathon, and it quickly became a staple in my home. With only 50 minutes from start to finish, it’s the perfect solution for those busy nights when you crave something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Gather your loved ones, and let’s create a dessert that’s sure to impress everyone, from dedicated foodies to those simply looking to escape the fast-food rut!
Why You'll Love This Christmas Cannoli Cake
- This Christmas Cannoli Cake is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a festive dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The delightful combination of ricotta, citrus zest, and chocolate chips provides a burst of flavor that will wow your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Its versatility means you can serve it at holiday gatherings or even as a special treat for a simple family get-together.
- Visually, this cake is a showstopper with its luscious layers and a dusting of powdered sugar, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table.
Christmas Cannoli Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – This forms the base of the cake and provides structure.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender texture.
- Baking powder – A leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors in this Christmas Cannoli Cake.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it's softened for easy creaming.
- Large eggs – Provides stability and moisture, ensuring a fluffy texture.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese – The star ingredient that brings the luxurious cannoli flavors to life.
For the Filling & Topping
- Powdered sugar – Used to make a sweet icing that adds a lovely finish.
- Chocolate chips – Mini or regular, they add delightful bursts of chocolate throughout the cake.
- Zest of 1 orange or lemon – Infuses a refreshing, citrusy brightness that complements the ricotta.
How to Make Christmas Cannoli Cake
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans thoroughly. This step ensures the cake comes out easily after baking and helps achieve that beautifully golden crust.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps create a uniform distribution of the leavening agent and ensures a well-risen cake.
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Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in another bowl until light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth batter.
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Combine the dry ingredients with the ricotta cheese, alternating the two for better mixing. Stir in the zest and chocolate chips until evenly distributed through the batter. The mixture should be thick and well-combined, giving you a wonderful aroma.
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Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. They are ready when they turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool the cakes completely in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set perfectly for frosting with sweet powdered sugar icing.
Optional: Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Christmas Cannoli Cake?
As you set the stage for a delightful holiday celebration, let your Christmas Cannoli Cake shine while complementary dishes elevate the entire experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, fluffy whipped cream adds a sweet contrast and a beautiful finish to each slice of cake.
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Espresso: This rich coffee beverage enhances the cake's flavors, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruit brightens up the dessert table and offers a fruity counterbalance to the cake's richness.
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Pistachio Gelato: The nutty flavor and creaminess of gelato pair beautifully with the cake, recalling the traditional cannoli.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over a slice makes each bite feel indulgent and extra special.
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Mulled Wine: A warm and spiced drink harmonizes wonderfully with the cake’s sweet and zesty profiles, making it an ideal pairing for chilly evenings.
Imagine the laughter and joy around your table, where these delightful additions create cherished moments that linger long after the last bite of cake.
Christmas Cannoli Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this delightful cake with these exciting twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously fluffy cake everyone can enjoy.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of ricotta cheese and almond milk instead of whole milk to make it dairy-free, while still retaining a creamy texture.
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, like pistachios or hazelnuts, into the batter for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the ricotta.
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Fruit Surprise: Add 1 cup of diced dried fruit, like cranberries or candied orange peel, for an added burst of fruity sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cake's flavors.
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Zesty Boost: Double the citrus zest for a more pronounced fruity flavor, making each slice even more refreshing and vibrant. The extra zing is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a rich chocolatey version of the cake, perfect for those who can’t resist a little extra decadence.
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Spiced Version: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour mixture for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for winter festivities.
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Sweet Heat: Mix in ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected kick, balancing out the sweetness with a subtle warmth that will have everyone talking.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Cannoli Cakes are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps of the recipe. Once cooled, wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap to maintain their moisture, and refrigerate until you’re ready to frost. Before serving, whip up the powdered sugar icing and drizzle it over the layered cakes for that fresh, airy touch. This way, you enjoy the delightful flavors of the Christmas Cannoli Cake without the stress, allowing you to spend more precious moments with your loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cannoli Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the Christmas Cannoli Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will keep the cake fresh, though the texture may slightly change.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy the cake later, slice it and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To thaw, place the wrapped cake in the refrigerator overnight. For a warm treat, gently microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, for better mixing and a fluffier texture in your Christmas Cannoli Cake.
- Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour; just mix until combined to prevent a dense cake.
- When creaming the butter and sugar, take your time to achieve a light and airy mixture, which is key for a tender cake.
- Keep an eye on your cakes while baking, as ovens can vary; start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark to ensure they don't overbake.
Christmas Cannoli Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this Christmas Cannoli Cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your cake, make sure to choose fresh ingredients. When picking ricotta cheese, look for one that is creamy and free from excess liquid. For the citrus zest, select firm oranges or lemons with vibrant skin, avoiding any that have dark spots or blemishes.
What is the best way to store leftover Christmas Cannoli Cake?
Very simple! Keep any uneaten cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to save it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This prevents it from drying out while still retaining its delicious flavor.
Can I freeze the Christmas Cannoli Cake?
Absolutely! If you wish to enjoy the cake later, proceed with freezing. Slice the cake into individual portions, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped slices in a labeled freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move it to the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours.
What should I do if my cake doesn't rise properly?
Don't worry; it happens to the best of us! If your cake doesn't rise, check a couple of things: First, ensure your baking powder is fresh—if it's been in your pantry for over six months, it might not work effectively. Next, be cautious not to overmix your batter once the flour is added, as this can create a dense texture. Lastly, always preheat your oven and place the cake in the center for even baking.
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider with this recipe?
The Christmas Cannoli Cake contains dairy and gluten, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities. If making it for someone with allergies, you can use gluten-free flour or dairy-free ricotta alternatives. Always check your ingredients and labels for other allergens, especially the chocolate chips!
Can I customize the flavor of my Christmas Cannoli Cake?
Absolutely! This cake is highly versatile. You might try adding nuts, like crushed pistachios or walnuts, for a delightful crunch or replace chocolate chips with dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a holiday twist. Just keep in mind the portions to maintain the right balance of flavor and texture.
Christmas Cannoli Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans thoroughly.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in another bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the ricotta cheese, alternating the two for better mixing.
- Stir in the zest and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool the cakes completely in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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