Cannoli, the iconic Sicilian pastry, boasts a rich history and an even richer flavor profile. Its crispy shell, creamy ricotta filling and hints of citrus and chocolate make it a universally beloved treat.
But what if you could elevate this classic dessert even further? Enter the Holy, Buff Cannoli Cake -- a show-stopping creation that captures the essence of the original while offering a satisfyingly larger slice of indulgence.
This recipe combines the familiar flavors of cannoli with the comforting texture of cake, all enhanced by the subtle bitterness and depth of Buff Boy Brewing coffee. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful fusion!
Coffee? Really?
Yessssss! The addition of Buff Boy coffee might seem unconventional, but it perfectly complements the other flavors in the cannoli cake. The bitterness of the coffee cuts through the sweetness of the ricotta and sugar, adding a layer of complexity that elevates the entire experience.
Our coffee is particularly well-suited for this recipe because of the carefully selected beans and expert roasting process. Our beans deliver a rich, full-bodied flavor that stands up beautifully in baked goods. Whether you choose a dark roast for a bold coffee punch or a medium roast for a more subtle undertone, Buff Boy coffee enhances the final product.
This recipe is broken down into three parts: the cake layers, the ricotta filling, and the chocolate ganache topping.
Part 1: The Coffee-Infused Cake Layers
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup strongly brewed Buff Boy coffee, cooled
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
In a small bowl, combine buttermilk and cooled Buff coffee.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk-coffee mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour batter evenly into prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Part 2: The Creamy Ricotta Filling
Ingredients:
30 oz. whole milk ricotta cheese, drained overnight in cheesecloth (essential for a smooth filling!)
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp orange zest
¼ cup mini chocolate chips
¼ cup candied citrus peel, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, beat ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
Stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.
Gently fold in mini chocolate chips and candied citrus peel (if using).
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Part 3: The Decadent Chocolate Ganache Topping
Ingredients:
8 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream
1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
Pour hot cream over chocolate chips and let sit for 1 minute.
Whisk until smooth and glossy.
Stir in butter until melted and incorporated.
Let cool slightly until a spreadable consistency is reached.
Assembling the Cannoli Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, level them with a serrated knife if necessary.
Place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand.
Spread the ricotta filling evenly over the cake layer.
Top with the second cake layer.
Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Garnish with crushed cannoli shells, more chocolate chips or candied citrus peel (optional).
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the ganache to set.
Tips and Variations
Drain the ricotta! This is crucial for a creamy, non-watery filling.
Experiment with coffee flavors. Try different Buff Boy roasts to find your perfect coffee profile.
Add a coffee liqueur. A splash of Kahlua or other coffee liqueur to the cake batter or ricotta filling can enhance the coffee flavor.
Make it mini! This recipe can also be used to make individual cannoli cupcakes.
This dessert is perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy, creamy and coffee-infused flavors is sure to delight your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, brew a pot of your favorite Buff coffee and get ready to bake a cake that's truly unforgettable.