Are you ready to take your dessert game to a whole new level? Picture this: fluffy, moist cupcakes that capture the rich Italian flavors of cannoli in every bite. Yes, you guessed it, these Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting are here to steal the show! Inspired by the traditional Italian treat that many love, these cupcakes promise a crunchy exterior complemented by a creamy, unforgettable frosting, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy winter evenings.
I’ll never forget the first time I served these at a family gathering. Everyone’s eyes lit up when they heard the word “cannoli,” and as they took that first bite, I knew I had created something special. In fact, if you’ve tried my popular Red Velvet Cupcakes recipe, you know how a great dessert can bring people together; these cupcakes do just that but with a delightful twist! Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Cannoli Cupcakes that wonderfully symbolize the notion that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.
What are Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting?
Now, if you’re wondering why we’re calling them cannoli cupcakes, let me enlighten you! Cannoli are Italian pastry tubes filled with sweet, creamy filling, and by transforming them into cupcakes, we’ve made this classic treat even easier to enjoy! Imagine sinking your teeth into a cupcake that boasts the same glorious flavors found in traditional cannoli, and your taste buds will thank you! Do you think cupcakes are just a simple dessert? Think again! These little gems pack a punch of flavor, and I promise they will be a hit at your next family gathering. So, are you ready to get your hands floury and whip up a batch?
Why You’ll Love These Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting
When it comes to dessert, these Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting truly shine! First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. You can create these delightful treats at home without breaking the bank, which is a plus in today’s economy – who doesn’t love delicious, homemade cupcakes without the hefty price tag?
Next, let’s talk toppings. You can incorporate mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios for that extra crunch, which pairs perfectly with the creamy mascarpone frosting. They become an adventure for your taste buds! If you’ve enjoyed my Lemon Drizzle Cupcakes in the past, you’ll find a similar satisfaction here, blending flavors in surprising yet familiar ways. So, why not give these a try for your next family gathering?
How to Make Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting
Quick Overview
Making these Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting is a breeze! The textures of moist cupcake combined with a rich, creamy frosting create a unique dessert experience that’s sure to delight. You’ll find the preparation time is around just 30 minutes, making this a fantastic recipe even for those busy evenings when you want to whip up something special!
Key Ingredients for Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting
Here’s what you will need to create these luxurious cupcakes:
- For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 pinch salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting:
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Make the Frosting: In a bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until thick and creamy.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with the mascarpone frosting.
- Garnish: Top with mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios if desired.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting
- Substitutions: If you’re out of buttermilk, mix ½ cup milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes as a substitute.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
- Cooling Time: Allow your cupcakes to cool completely before frosting; this helps to maintain the texture and flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To ensure your Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting remain fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. If you need to freeze them, store them without frosting in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge, re-frost, and indulge!
Now that you’re armed with this delightful recipe for Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting, why not gather your family or friends and share these delicious treats? Happy baking!

Cannoli Cupcakes with Creamy Mascarpone Frosting
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp baking soda
- 1 pinch salt
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.5 cups buttermilk See substitution note for buttermilk.
For the Frosting
- 1 cups mascarpone cheese
- 0.5 cups heavy cream
- 0.5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- to taste optional mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Baking
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Frosting
- In a bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until thick and creamy.
- Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with the mascarpone frosting.
- Garnish with mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios if desired.

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