Name: Cannoli Bundt Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 box vanilla cake mix (13.25oz to 14.25oz); 1 cup mini chocolate chips; 3 eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup ricotta cheese, squeezed to remove liquid; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese, squeezed to remove liquid; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup softened butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; A few shakes of salt, to taste; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 45 reviews

There is something incredibly irresistible about this Cannoli Bundt Cake Recipe that blends the creamy richness of classic cannoli filling with the moist, tender crumb of a buttery vanilla cake. If you love the delightful flavors of ricotta and chocolate chips, this cake offers a perfect harmony of texture and sweetness that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or just treating yourself, it’s a dessert that sparks joy and creates memories.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view shows 14 clear glass bowls arranged in a slightly curved, horizontal line on a white marbled surface. From left to right, they contain chopped walnuts, diced pale yellow fruit, golden brown sugar, white sugar, whole brown eggs, rolled oats, light brown flour, a small bowl of ground cinnamon, a medium-sized bowl of white egg whites or a similar fluffy white substance, a large bowl of white powder (probably flour), a small bowl of golden syrup, white milk, white flour, a small bowl of salt, a tiny bowl of baking soda, and a bowl of white curd-like cheese. The arrangement is neat, with varying sizes of bowls and different textures and colors visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Cannoli Bundt Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients. Each one plays an essential role “behind the scenes” to create that perfect balance of flavor and texture—from the moist cake base to the luscious, creamy frosting that makes this dessert truly special.

Vanilla cake mix (1 box, 13.25oz to 14.25oz): The convenient base that guarantees a tender and fluffy cake every time.
Mini chocolate chips (1 cup + 1/2 cup): These pockets of melty chocolate add delightful bursts of richness and a bit of fun texture.
Eggs (3): Essential for binding the cake mixture and giving it structure.
Milk (1/2 cup): Adds moisture to keep the cake tender and soft.
Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Contributes to the cake’s moistness and richness without overpowering the flavor.
Ricotta cheese (1 1/2 cups, drained): This is the secret star ingredient—creating that creamy, cannoli-inspired note within the cake and frosting.
Cream cheese (4 oz): Adds tang and luscious creaminess to the frosting layer.
Softened butter (1/4 cup): Gives the frosting a velvety texture and depth.
Powdered sugar (2 1/4 cups total): Sweetens the frosting and dusting, adding the perfect finishing touch.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, fragrant notes.
Salt (a few shakes, to taste): Balances sweetness and deepens the overall flavor profile.

How to Make Cannoli Bundt Cake Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Cake Batter

Grab a large bowl and start by combining the vanilla cake mix with 1 cup of mini chocolate chips—giving those chips a quick toss in the mix helps them stay evenly distributed instead of sinking to the bottom. Next, add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and carefully drained ricotta cheese. Use a hand mixer to blend everything together until the batter is smooth and uniform. This mixture is where the magic begins to happen, melding traditional cake ingredients with that creamy ricotta for a uniquely moist crumb.

Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Generously coat your bundt pan with baking spray that includes flour and oil—this non-stick combo ensures your cake will release beautifully after baking, preserving its delicate shape and those lovely ridges. Once your pan is ready, pour the cake batter evenly into it, smoothing the top for even baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pop the pan into a preheated oven set to 350˚F. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, but keep an eye on it as oven types can vary. When the top starts to firm up, test by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked and ready to come out of the oven.

Step 4: Cool the Cake

Allow your cake to cool completely to set its flavor and texture. If you’re pressed for time, you can speed things up by placing the cake in the freezer for 30 minutes. This step is crucial so that the frosting doesn’t melt on contact.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

While the cake cools, whip up the frosting by blending the remaining ricotta cheese, cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until your mixture is smooth and creamy. This luscious frosting perfectly complements the cake’s gentle sweetness and ties together the cannoli theme beautifully.

Step 6: Remove Cake from Pan

Once cooled, place your cake plate on top of the bundt pan, carefully flip it over, and gently lift the pan off. Seeing your bundt cake intact and perfectly shaped is one of the most satisfying moments in this whole process!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Dust the top of the cake with the remaining powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Spread the ricotta-cream cheese frosting evenly over the top, letting it drip slightly over the edges for that inviting look. Finally, sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips on top for pops of color and crunch. Slice, serve, and watch eyes light up with every bite.

How to Serve Cannoli Bundt Cake Recipe

A round bundt cake with a light brown color sits on a wooden board, covered with a thick layer of white icing that drips down the sides unevenly. The icing is sprinkled with small pieces of chopped nuts that add texture and a golden color on top. The cake is placed on a dark wooden surface scattered with oats. Around it are a bunch of metal forks and a serving spoon on a small white plate with a beige cloth underneath, a green apple to the left, and to the right, a small white bowl filled with oats and a wooden honey dipper resting in a small wooden bowl with honey. The scene is warm and rustic. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond the basic powdered sugar and chocolate chips, you can elevate your Cannoli Bundt Cake Recipe by adding a few toasted pistachios or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate. Fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also add layers of flavor and a pop of color, making your dessert even more tempting.

Side Dishes

Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. A cup of rich espresso or a creamy cappuccino also complements the richness of the cake beautifully, balancing sweetness with that satisfying coffee kick.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with a small dollop of mascarpone mixed with lemon zest to brighten each bite. For parties, arrange several mini bundt cakes on a tiered stand or create a dessert buffet with cannoli-inspired treats alongside fresh fruit and chocolates to really wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Cannoli Bundt Cake Recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days when wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keeping it chilled preserves the creamy frosting and moist texture perfectly.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, this cake freezes well. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. When frozen properly, it can last up to 2 months without losing its delicious taste or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy your cake after freezing, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a freshly baked feel, you can warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, but be careful not to melt the frosting. Serving slightly chilled is also wonderful for this flavor-packed dessert.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ricotta cheese instead of drained?

Draining the ricotta is essential because excess moisture can make the cake batter too wet, affecting the texture. So, always squeeze out the liquid for best results.

Is it necessary to use a bundt pan for this recipe?

A bundt pan gives the cake a beautiful shape and elegant look, but if you don’t have one, a regular cake or tube pan will work—you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Can I substitute mini chocolate chips with another type of chocolate?

Absolutely! Chopped chocolate chunks or even white chocolate chips work great if you want to try a different twist.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The classic toothpick test works best—insert a clean toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, the cake is ready to take out of the oven.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix, making sure it’s suitable for baking, and you can enjoy this delicious Cannoli Bundt Cake Recipe gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings joy and a touch of Italian-inspired indulgence to your table, you absolutely must give this Cannoli Bundt Cake Recipe a try. It’s simple yet exquisite, combining beloved flavors and textures in a way that feels both comforting and celebratory. Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for any occasion.