Cannoli Pancakes

If you love cannoli and pancakes, why not combine them into one irresistible breakfast treat? These Cannoli Pancakes are fluffy, lightly sweet pancakes filled with a creamy ricotta and chocolate chip filling, just like your favorite Italian pastry. Perfect for brunch, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a little indulgence!

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Why You’ll Love These Cannoli Pancakes

✔ Fluffy & Delicious – Soft pancakes with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon.
✔ Creamy Ricotta Filling – Lightly sweetened with a touch of orange zest for an authentic cannoli flavor.
✔ Easy to Make – No fancy equipment needed—just mix, cook, and enjoy!
✔ Perfect for Special Mornings – A brunch-worthy treat that tastes like dessert!

Ingredients for Cannoli Pancakes

For the Pancakes

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base for fluffy pancakes.
• 2 tablespoons sugar – Just a touch of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the pancakes rise.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the baking powder for a soft texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – A warm, subtle spice.
• 1 cup buttermilk – For extra fluffiness.
• 2 eggs – Helps bind and add richness.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter – For a smooth batter.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A touch of sweetness.

For the Cannoli Filling

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred) – The key to that creamy cannoli taste.
• ½ cup mascarpone cheese – Makes the filling extra rich.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar – Lightly sweetens the filling.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth.
• ½ teaspoon orange zest – A fresh, citrusy touch.
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips – For that classic cannoli crunch.

For Garnishing

• Powdered sugar – A light dusting for sweetness.
• Extra mini chocolate chips – For topping.
• Whipped cream (optional) – Because why not?
• Chopped pistachios (optional) – Adds a nutty crunch.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – For the pancake batter and filling.
• Whisk – To mix the batter smoothly.
• Non-stick skillet or griddle – For perfectly cooked pancakes.
• Spatula – To flip the pancakes with ease.

How to Make Cannoli Pancakes

Step 1: Make the Cannoli Filling

1. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth.
2. Stir in mini chocolate chips.
3. Refrigerate while you make the pancakes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
2. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined (don’t overmix!).

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes

1. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
2. Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
3. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set (about 2 minutes).
4. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
5. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Step 4: Assemble the Cannoli Pancakes

1. Spread or dollop a generous spoonful of the cannoli filling onto a pancake.
2. Stack another pancake on top or roll them up like a cannoli for a fun twist!
3. Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and pistachios if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Berries – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries complement the flavors beautifully.
• With Espresso or Cappuccino – A perfect Italian-style breakfast pairing.
• As a Dessert – Serve with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate gelato!

Tips for the Best Cannoli Pancakes

✔ Use Whole Milk Ricotta – It gives the filling the best texture.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter – A few lumps are okay; overmixing makes pancakes dense.
✔ Let the Filling Chill – This helps the flavors develop and makes it easier to spread.
✔ Adjust Sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter filling, add a bit more powdered sugar.
✔ Make Mini Pancakes – For a fun bite-sized version, make silver-dollar pancakes!

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm pancakes in a skillet or microwave before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze pancakes in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make the cannoli filling ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the filling up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated.

Q2: Can I use store-bought pancake mix?
A: Absolutely! Just add cinnamon and vanilla to the mix for extra flavor.

Q3: Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and they’ll turn out just as fluffy.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Brunch Treat!

These Cannoli Pancakes are the perfect mix of breakfast and dessert, bringing together the warm, fluffy goodness of pancakes with the creamy, chocolatey delight of a classic cannoli. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress!

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your delicious creations.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 2g

Enjoy every creamy, chocolate-filled bite of these delicious Cannoli Pancakes!

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