If there’s one dessert that screams indulgence, it’s these Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli Cupcakes! Imagine the rich, creamy filling of a classic cannoli, tucked inside a fluffy cupcake, then dipped in silky dark chocolate. Yes, they’re as dreamy as they sound! Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself (because, why not?), these cupcakes will steal the show. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 box cake mix (prepared according to package instructions)
For the Cannoli Cream:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 2 cups dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
How to Make Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli Cupcakes
1. Bake the Cupcakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. Fill each liner ¾ full and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely before filling.
2. Make the Cannoli Cream
In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips for that classic cannoli touch.
3. Fill the Cupcakes
Use a small knife or cupcake corer to cut out a small hole in the center of each cupcake. Press the center down slightly to create space for the filling. Transfer the cannoli cream to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off, then pipe the cream into each cupcake, swirling it on top for a decorative finish.
4. Freeze the Cupcakes
Place the filled cupcakes in the freezer for about 1 hour, or until firm. This helps prevent the cream from melting when dipped in warm chocolate.
5. Dip in Chocolate
Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Carefully dip the tops of the cupcakes into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off.
6. Set and Serve
Place the dipped cupcakes in the refrigerator to allow the chocolate to set. Once firm, they’re ready to enjoy!
Helpful Tips for the Best Cannoli Cupcakes
✔ Use full-fat ricotta – It gives the filling a richer, creamier texture. If your ricotta is watery, drain it using a cheesecloth before mixing.
✔ Chill the filling – Keeping the cannoli cream in the fridge for 30 minutes before filling the cupcakes makes it easier to pipe.
✔ Don’t skip the freezing step – This ensures the cream doesn’t mix into the melted chocolate when dipping.
✔ Use quality chocolate – Dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa makes for the best flavor and texture.
Substitutions & Variations
🔹 No mascarpone? Use cream cheese instead for a slightly tangy twist.
🔹 Prefer milk chocolate? Swap the dark chocolate for milk or even white chocolate.
🔹 Add crunch! Sprinkle crushed cannoli shells or chopped pistachios on top before the chocolate sets.
🔹 Go gluten-free – Use a gluten-free cake mix to make these cupcakes completely gluten-free!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes and prepare the cannoli cream a day in advance. Assemble and dip them in chocolate on the day you plan to serve them for the best texture.
2. How do I store Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli Cupcakes?
Please keep them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Allow them to rest at room temperature for roughly 10 minutes before serving.
3. Can I freeze them?
Yes! Once fully set, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
4. My chocolate is too thick for dipping—what should I do?
If your chocolate is too thick, add an extra ½ to 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and stir until smooth.
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These Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli Cupcakes are a showstopper dessert that’s as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether for a party or a personal treat, they’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy, and happy baking!
0mg this dessert looks delicious i got to make some.Yummy