If you’ve ever had a crisp pizzelle cookie melt in your mouth, imagine it taken to the next level with a silky, sweet cannoli filling sandwiched right in between. Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches are the kind of dessert that instantly transports you to an Italian bakery, where delicate flavors and crunchy textures live in perfect harmony. These treats are light yet indulgent, offering the perfect bite-size end to a meal or a little afternoon delight with a cup of espresso.
This recipe blends the nostalgic charm of pizzelle cookies with the creamy richness of cannoli filling, complete with mini chocolate chips and optional hints of citrus zest. Whether you’re prepping a festive holiday tray or just treating yourself on a cozy weekend, these sandwiches are as much fun to make as they are to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches Recipe
There’s something magical about a dessert that’s both easy and elegant. You’ll love this recipe because it gives you that authentic Italian bakery feel without the hassle of frying or complicated steps. Pizzelles provide the crisp, lacy texture, while the ricotta filling is whipped into a fluffy, lightly sweetened cream. They’re also versatile—dress them up with a dusting of powdered sugar or keep them simple and rustic. Plus, they store well, making them perfect for make-ahead desserts or sharing with friends.
What Kind of Pizzelles Should I Use?
You can use store-bought pizzelles to save time, or go homemade for a truly fresh flavor. Traditional anise-flavored pizzelles work beautifully with the cannoli cream, but vanilla, almond, or even chocolate pizzelles will also complement the filling. Just make sure they are crisp and not too thick—thin, delicate pizzelles give the best snap and contrast to the creamy center.
Ingredients for the Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches
For these Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches, you only need a handful of quality ingredients. The key here is freshness—especially with the ricotta, which should be well-drained to avoid soggy pizzelles. Each ingredient plays a simple but important role.
- Ricotta cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Mini chocolate chips
- Orange zest (optional)
- Pizzelle cookies
The ricotta cheese forms the base of your cannoli filling—make sure it’s drained well for the fluffiest result. Powdered sugar adds that essential sweetness and smooth texture. A dash of vanilla extract elevates the flavor without overpowering. Mini chocolate chips provide the classic chocolatey crunch, while orange zest brings a hint of brightness if you want a more traditional Sicilian twist. And of course, pizzelle cookies are the star of the show, sandwiching all that creamy goodness between golden crisp layers.

How To Make the Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches
Step 1: Prep the Ricotta
Drain your ricotta cheese by placing it in a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture and keeps your filling thick.
Step 2: Make the Cannoli Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together the drained ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. Fold in mini chocolate chips and optional orange zest for added flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay out half of your pizzelles on a tray. Pipe or spoon a generous dollop of cannoli filling onto the center of each. Gently press another pizzelle on top to form a sandwich.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the sandwiches for 30 minutes to help the filling set. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Serving and Storing Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches
These pizzelle sandwiches are perfect for serving at parties, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for finger-friendly desserts. Each one is just the right size—this recipe makes about 10–12 sandwiches, depending on the size of your pizzelles.
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to place parchment paper between layers to keep the pizzelles from sticking together or getting too soft. They can also be frozen, although the texture of the pizzelles may change slightly upon thawing.
What to Serve With Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches?
Espresso or Cappuccino
The slightly bitter coffee flavor is a perfect match for the sweetness of the cannoli filling.
Limoncello
A chilled shot of this Italian lemon liqueur adds a bright citrus balance after these creamy bites.
Fresh Berries
Serve alongside a bowl of raspberries or strawberries to bring some fresh, tangy contrast.
Pistachio Gelato
Pair your sandwiches with a scoop of pistachio or vanilla bean gelato for an elegant dessert plate.
Chocolate-Dipped Fruit
Dark chocolate-covered strawberries or figs bring another layer of indulgence to your spread.
Dessert Wine
A sweet Moscato or Vin Santo makes a beautiful pairing, especially for a celebratory meal.
Almond Biscotti
Offer a duo of Italian classics on a platter for a mix of textures and flavors.
Want More Dessert Sandwich Ideas?
If you love these Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches, you’ll probably enjoy these other unique dessert combos on Janet Dishes:
• Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies with melty chocolate and marshmallow filling.
• Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies for a cinnamon-sugar twist on a creamy classic.
• Baby Lemon Impossible Pies if you love citrus desserts in mini form.
• Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for that rich, nutty flavor in every bite.
• Decadent Pistachio Cream Cake if you can’t get enough of creamy layers and nutty notes.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different pizzelle flavor? Add some cinnamon to the filling? I love hearing how others add their personal twist.
Explore beautifully curated desserts and health-boosting drinks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for sweet treats!
Conclusion
Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches bring together the best of two Italian traditions in one stunning, bite-sized dessert. Crispy, creamy, sweet, and nostalgic, they’re as lovely to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re sharing with guests or treating yourself, these little delights will have everyone asking for seconds.

Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 sandwiches
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, sweet, and crispy, Cannoli Stuffed Pizzelle Sandwiches combine delicate pizzelle cookies with a rich ricotta filling. This easy no-bake Italian dessert is perfect for holidays, parties, or a simple treat at home. Great for make-ahead and freezer-friendly too.
Ingredients
1 cup ricotta cheese (well-drained)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
20 pizzelle cookies (to make 10 sandwiches)
Instructions
1. Drain the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Fold in the mini chocolate chips and orange zest, if using.
4. Lay out half the pizzelle cookies on a tray.
5. Spoon or pipe a dollop of the filling onto the center of each pizzelle.
6. Top with a second pizzelle to create a sandwich.
7. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the filling to set.
8. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving, if desired.
Notes
These sandwiches taste best chilled for at least 30 minutes.
Make sure your ricotta is well-drained to prevent soggy cookies.
You can freeze assembled sandwiches for up to one month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
