Pumpkin Cannoli Recipe

If there’s one dessert that captures the magic of fall in every bite, it’s Pumpkin Cannoli. Imagine the classic Italian cannoli shell—shatteringly crisp—generously piped with creamy pumpkin-spiced goodness. This dessert is a showstopper for any autumn gathering, irresistibly rich yet light on the palate. The touch of warm spices, silky filling, and a snowfall of powdered sugar blend the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie with the playful fun of cannoli. Whether you’re hosting friends or sharing treats with family, these Pumpkin Cannoli are bound to steal the spotlight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple this Pumpkin Cannoli recipe is to whip up! Every ingredient contributes its own special magic, from luscious cream to aromatic spice. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters.

• Heavy Whipping Cream: Whip it up for a cloud-like texture that keeps the filling silky instead of dense.
• Cream Cheese (softened): Gives the filling body and that irresistible, tangy richness that balances the sweet.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and smooths the filling, and makes a perfect garnish for a snowy finish.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show, this adds real pumpkin flavor and that trademark golden color.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove turns things cozy and autumnal.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out all the flavors with warm, aromatic depth.
• Large Cannoli Shells: Crisp, golden vessels ready to be filled—store-bought is just fine for stress-free prep.

How to Make Pumpkin Cannoli

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Start with chilled heavy whipping cream in the bowl of your stand mixer. Beat on medium-high until you see those luscious, stiff peaks forming. This takes the filling from heavy to heavenly—don’t rush it! When it’s good and fluffy, gently transfer it to a separate bowl and keep it cold while you work on the next step.

Step 2: Blend the Pumpkin Mixture

To the same mixing bowl (it’s fine if it’s not perfectly clean), add your softened cream cheese, canned pumpkin puree, 1 cup powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until completely smooth and airy. This step infuses the filling with pumpkin flavor and those classic fall spices, blended to perfection.

Step 3: Fold Together

Now, using a spatula, lovingly fold the freshly whipped cream into the pumpkin-cream cheese mixture. Be gentle—you want to keep all that wonderful air you whipped in. This is where the filling really comes alive: light, creamy, and decadently spiced.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Cover the bowl and let the filling chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This makes it easier to pipe and helps the flavors mingle. Trust me, a little patience here is so worth it—the result is set, fluffy, and flavorful Pumpkin Cannoli filling.

Step 5: Fill the Cannoli Shells

When you’re ready to assemble, scoop the chilled filling into a piping bag fitted with a medium or large tip. Pipe the pumpkin filling into each cannoli shell, going from both ends to ensure there’s creamy goodness all the way through. As you fill the shells, you’ll notice the irresistible smell of pumpkin spice—try not to eat the filling by the spoonful!

Step 6: The Finishing Touch

Just before serving, dust the Pumpkin Cannoli with a generous shake of powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the ultimate contrast of crispy shell and luscious, cool filling.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cannoli

Garnishes

The perfect Pumpkin Cannoli deserves a little extra flair. Try scattering a few mini chocolate chips or a pinch of candied ginger on the exposed filling ends. Crushed pecans or a delicate sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice are also wonderful. Finish with a final dusting of powdered sugar for that irresistible look.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pumpkin Cannoli with a hot spiced latte or a scoop of vanilla gelato for a decadent finish. Fresh seasonal fruit, like pomegranate seeds or sliced pears, brings a pop of freshness that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the filled cannoli artfully on a wood board with little bowls of chocolate shavings, nuts, and extra powdered sugar for an interactive dessert bar. For festive gatherings, stack them in a playful pyramid, or nestle each cannoli in parchment wrappers for easy grab-and-go snacking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Pumpkin Cannoli, store them in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Try to finish within 2 days for the crispiest shells, as the filling can soften them over time. For best results, keep filled desserts chilled until just ready to eat.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfilled pumpkin filling for up to one month. When ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight, give it a quick stir, then pipe into fresh shells. Avoid freezing assembled cannoli, as the shells lose their crunch.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Pumpkin Cannoli! Enjoy them cold from the fridge or allow them to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes if you prefer a slightly softer texture. The contrast of cool filling and crisp shell is what makes them so appealing.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin Cannoli shells from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade cannoli shells are a fun weekend project, but for ease and speed, store-bought shells taste delicious and hold up well with the creamy filling.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can make your own pumpkin puree, just be sure it’s thick and well-drained to avoid a watery filling. Canned pumpkin is reliable and yields a consistent, rich flavor every time.

What if I don’t have a piping bag?

No worries! You can use a zip-top plastic bag with a corner snipped off to pipe the filling neatly into each shell.

Is there a dairy-free option for Pumpkin Cannoli?

Substitute dairy-free whipped topping and vegan cream cheese to create a plant-based version. The texture stays rich and the flavor is just as inviting!

How do I keep the shells crispy?

Only fill your Pumpkin Cannoli right before serving; this keeps the shells perfectly crisp and prevents them from softening in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cannoli are pure fall joy—each bite is a delicious celebration of creamy, spiced pumpkin wrapped in crackly pastry. I can’t wait for you to try them at your next gathering or cozy night in. Give this recipe a whirl, and let the compliments roll in!

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