If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing that irresistible cannoli flavor in a show-stopping dessert, then you are in for a treat with this Layered Cannoli Cake Recipe. This delightful cake layers fluffy vanilla cake with creamy mascarpone frosting, crunchy mini chocolate chips, and the unmistakable crunch of chocolate chip cannoli pieces. It’s like having your favorite Italian pastry reimagined as a towering celebration centerpiece! Perfect for special occasions or anytime you want to impress, this cake combines textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Layered Cannoli Cake Recipe comes down to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the vanilla cake mix for that light, airy base; mascarpone cheese for silky smoothness; and chocolate chips to bring the perfect touch of bittersweet crunch. Getting these right will make your baking experience seamless and the final cake absolutely delicious.
- French vanilla cake mix: Provides a moist, flavorful foundation that bakes to a perfect golden hue.
- Large eggs: Helps bind the batter and adds richness to the cake layers.
- Whole milk: Enhances the moisture and tenderness of the cake crumb.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds creaminess and depth to the frosting’s texture.
- Mascarpone cheese (softened): The star ingredient for that luscious, smooth frosting that echoes cannoli filling.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- Pure vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that ties all the layers together.
- Mini chocolate chips: Sprinkle throughout the frosting for delightful bursts of chocolate.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Used in ganache to add a glossy chocolate finish.
- Heavy whipping cream: Blended with chocolate chips to create smooth chocolate ganache.
- Chocolate chip cannoli’s (cut in half): Adding these between layers or as garnish introduces a welcome crunch and authentic cannoli flair.
- Large piping bag with star tip: Perfect for piping decorative swirls of frosting on top.
- Ice cream scoop: Helps portion uniform dollops of frosting or filling for even layers.
- Cake boards (3 x 9 inch and 3 x 10 inch): Essential tools for assembling this elegant layered masterpiece securely.
How to Make Layered Cannoli Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and generously spraying your cake pans with baking spray. This little prep goes a long way in ensuring your cake layers release smoothly after baking without sticking or breaking.
Step 2: Mix Cake Batter
In a standing mixer or with a hand beater, combine the two boxes of French vanilla cake mix, six large eggs, and two cups of whole milk. Beat until everything is fully incorporated and you have a smooth batter ready to be divided into pans.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Evenly divide the batter among three well-prepped cake pans. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Your cake layers should come out golden and springy to the touch when done. Let them cool completely before moving on—that frosting waits for no warm cake!
Step 4: Make the Mascarpone Cheese Frosting
Whip together four cups of softened mascarpone cheese, five cups of powdered sugar, and one tablespoon of pure vanilla extract in your mixer until perfectly smooth and fluffy. This frosting will cradle your layers with luscious creaminess and a sweet, tangy finish resembling authentic cannoli filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled cake layer on a 9-inch cake board. Using a medium ice cream scoop, dollop mascarpone frosting generously on top, then sprinkle mini chocolate chips evenly for texture. Add a handful of halved chocolate chip cannoli pieces for that iconic crunch. Repeat this process for the remaining layers, stacking carefully to keep everything neat and tall.
Step 6: Decorate with Piping and Ganache
Fill a large piping bag fitted with a star tip with about one cup of your mascarpone frosting. Pipe elegant swirls around the edges and top center for a gorgeous finish. For the chocolate ganache, melt one cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips with half a cup of heavy whipping cream until glossy and smooth. Drizzle this decadently over the top and sides of the cake for an irresistible chocolate sheen.
How to Serve Layered Cannoli Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your baked masterpiece with extra halved chocolate chip cannoli pieces around the edge and scattered mini chocolate chips atop the frosting swirls. These simple garnishes catch the eye and sneak another layer of crunch and flavor in every bite.
Side Dishes
This Layered Cannoli Cake Recipe pairs delightfully with a light espresso or cappuccino, bringing out the vanilla and chocolate notes. Fresh berries on the side can add a pop of color and a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the cake on a simple white cake stand to highlight its beautiful layers. Offering vintage spoons or forks with decorative handles can elevate the experience, making your guests feel like they’re indulging in an elegant Italian treat right in their own home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover Layered Cannoli Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The mascarpone frosting stays fresh and creamy for up to 4 days, making it convenient to enjoy over several occasions.
Freezing
You can freeze individual slices wrapped securely in plastic and foil for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw slices overnight in the fridge to maintain the cake’s ideal texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this cake is best served chilled to preserve the mascarpone frosting, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow frozen or refrigerated slices to come to room temperature briefly before serving for the best taste experience.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake instead of box mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to bake your favorite vanilla cake from scratch. Just make sure it’s moist and sturdy enough to support the layers and frosting in this Layered Cannoli Cake Recipe.
Is mascarpone cheese necessary for the frosting?
Mascarpone is essential here because of its creamy texture and mild tang that mimics traditional cannoli filling. Substituting cream cheese may work but will change the flavor profile slightly.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free vanilla cake mixes and ensuring all other ingredients like chocolate chips are gluten-free, you can enjoy a safe and delicious version of this recipe.
How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Don’t overbake the cake layers, and always allow them to cool fully before frosting to keep the cake tender. Also, storing the completed cake properly sealed in the fridge helps lock in moisture.
Can I add other flavors or fillings?
Of course! You might try adding a lemon zest to the mascarpone frosting or layering fresh strawberries between the cake layers for a fruity twist that complements the classic cannoli flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Layered Cannoli Cake Recipe is a total showstopper that captures the heart and soul of an Italian favorite in a beautifully layered cake form. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something extra special, this dessert promises smiles and “wow” moments with every bite. Don’t hesitate—bake it, share it, and watch it disappear in no time!
Print
Layered Cannoli Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Layered Cannoli Cake is a decadent and elegant dessert featuring tender French vanilla cake layers filled and frosted with creamy mascarpone cheese frosting studded with mini chocolate chips. Each tier is accented with halved chocolate chip cannoli for an impressive presentation and delightful textural contrast. Perfect for celebrations and special occasions, this cake combines classic Italian flavors with a moist, fluffy cake base.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 boxes French vanilla cake mix
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
Frosting
- 4 cups mascarpone cheese, softened
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 cups mini chocolate chips
Decoration
- 6 chocolate chip cannolis, cut in half
Additional Supplies
- 3 9-inch round cake pans
- 3 10-inch round cake boards
- 1 medium ice cream scoop
- 1 large piping bag with star tip
Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray the three 9-inch round cake pans with baking spray to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a standing mixer or with a hand beater, combine the French vanilla cake mixes, eggs, whole milk, and softened unsalted butter. Beat until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Divide Batter: Evenly divide the cake batter among the three prepared 9-inch cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake Cakes: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pans before removing them.
- Make Frosting: In a standing mixer, beat together the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare Piping Bag: Scoop 1 cup of the mascarpone frosting into the piping bag fitted with the star tip for decorating.
- Assemble First Layer: Place one cooled cake layer on a 10-inch cake board. Spread a generous layer of mascarpone frosting evenly over the cake. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top of the frosting.
- Stack Remaining Layers: Repeat the frosting and mini chocolate chip layering with the second and third cake layers, stacking them carefully on top of one another.
- Frost Outside of Cake: Use the remaining mascarpone frosting to cover the entire exterior of the assembled cake smoothly.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy whipping cream until just about to simmer and pour over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
- Decorate Cake: Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top edges of the cake, allowing it to drip slightly down the sides. Use the piping bag to pipe decorative frosting accents on the cake.
- Add Cannoli: Arrange the halved chocolate chip cannolis around the base and top of the cake for a beautiful finishing touch and added texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Using a serrated knife to level the cake layers can help achieve a flatter surface for stacking.
- The mascarpone frosting is delicate; keep the cake refrigerated if not serving immediately to maintain its texture.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute mascarpone with a vegan cream cheese and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
- Mini chocolate chips add delightful bursts of chocolate throughout the cake layers.
- The chocolate ganache adds richness and a glossy finish; be careful not to overheat the cream when making it.
