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Easy Cannoli Cake: A Delectable No-Bake Dessert for Every Occasion

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“Make this Easy Cannoli Cake for a no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of moist pound cake, creamy ricotta filling, and rich chocolate ganache, this Italian-inspired treat will be a crowd favorite!”

  • Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

For the Cake:

16-ounce (454 g) frozen pound cake (family size)

15-ounce (425 g) container of whole milk ricotta cheese

12 ounces (340 g) mini chocolate chips

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups (473 ml) heavy whipping cream

¾ cup (88 g) powdered sugar

For the Ganache:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 cup mini chocolate chips

Optional for Serving:

Vanilla ice cream or whipped topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pound Cake: Freeze the pound cake for 30 minutes to make it easier to slice. Cut into ¼-inch slices using a serrated knife and arrange the slices in the bottom of an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square pan.

  2. Make the Ganache: Heat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream in a microwave-safe bowl for 90 seconds or until hot (but not boiling). Add 1 cup of mini chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Refrigerate to chill and firm up.

  3. Prepare the Cannoli Filling: In a bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips.

  4. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture in two batches until incorporated.

  5. Assemble the Cake: Start with a layer of pound cake at the bottom. Spread half of the cannoli filling over the cake, followed by another layer of pound cake. Press gently to adhere. Add the remaining filling and top with the final layer of pound cake.

  6. Top with Ganache: Stir the chilled ganache to ensure smoothness, then pour evenly over the top layer of pound cake. Sprinkle with the remaining mini chocolate chips.

  7. Chill the Cake: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight. Cover with plastic wrap after 15 minutes to avoid sticking.

Notes

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pound cake for a gluten-free option.

Fruit Add-ins: Fresh raspberries or strawberries between the layers add a pop of color and freshness.

Lemon Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the ricotta filling for a citrusy twist.

  • Author: Chloe Mae
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, No-Bake, Italian
  • Method: No-Bake, Refrigerating
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian