If you’re looking for a delightful Italian-inspired treat that’s both fun and fuss-free, this No Bake Cannoli Cones Recipe is an absolute winner. Creamy, sweet ricotta filling meets crispy sugar cones dipped in rich chocolate and sprinkled with your favorite toppings, creating a handheld dessert that feels indulgent yet light. Perfect for warm days or last-minute guests, this recipe requires no oven time and is a pure joy to make and enjoy with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two small waffle cones filled with white whipped cream on top stand leaning inside a clear glass. One cone is decorated with small dark chocolate chips and topped with a bright red cherry, while the other cone is covered with white coconut flakes and also topped with a red cherry. Behind the glass, two more similar cones lie on a white marbled surface, surrounded by crumbs and small chocolate pieces. The light and clean background also shows a blurred plant and some fabric in the distance. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a vital role in making this No Bake Cannoli Cones Recipe truly special. From the rich texture of full-fat ricotta to the crunch of sugar cones and the velvety whipped cream folded in, every item is chosen to create the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet.

15 ounces ricotta cheese (full fat): The creamy base that gives the filling its authentic cannoli flavor and luscious texture.
¾ cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it lightens the ricotta for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
⅔ cup icing sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness while blending smoothly into the cream.
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Just a hint to warm up the flavor profile with a touch of spice.
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (minis): Melted to coat the rims of the cones, adding a rich and crunchy contrast.
9 ice cream cones (sugar cones preferable): The crisp vessel for the cannoli cream that makes this recipe so fun to eat.
4 tablespoons shredded coconut: For an optional tropical twist on the cone’s rim.
2 tablespoons turbinado sugar: Adds sparkle and sweetness to cone rims when combined with melted chocolate.
4 tablespoons crushed nuts (any kind): Toasting optional, these bring a great crunch and nutty flavor.
9 cocoa nibs: A sophisticated, slightly bitter crunch perfect for topping.
3 tablespoons sprinkles: For a fun and colorful finish, just like childhood celebrations.
9 maraschino cherries: The classic cherry on top that makes these cones look irresistible.

How to Make No Bake Cannoli Cones Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Start by placing your semi-sweet chocolate chips into a small microwave-safe dish. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is smooth and completely melted. This luscious coating is the key to give your cones that beautiful, glossy edge.

Step 2: Dip the Cone Rims

Dip each sugar cone about an inch deep into the melted chocolate. While the chocolate is still wet, roll the rims in your chosen toppings—whether it’s shredded coconut, turbinado sugar, nuts, or sprinkles. This step adds texture and flair, making each cone uniquely yours. Set the cones aside to cool and let the chocolate harden, which only takes a few minutes.

Step 3: Drain the Ricotta

Drain the ricotta cheese by placing it in a piece of cheesecloth or a clean flour sack towel over a bowl or your sink. Gather the edges and twist tightly to squeeze out excess liquid. This process is crucial because it prevents the filling from becoming watery and ensures that creamy, thick filling we all love in cannoli.

Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Filling

Transfer the drained ricotta to a mixing bowl. Add icing sugar and cinnamon, then mix until the combination is smooth and aromatic. This mixture embodies the authentic Italian cannoli filling flavors that will soon fill your cones.

Step 5: Whip the Heavy Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. This fluffy whipped cream will lighten the dense ricotta mixture, giving the cannoli cream that airy, dreamy consistency.

Step 6: Fold and Combine

Gently fold the ricotta mixture into the whipped cream, taking care to keep the airiness intact. This luscious filling is the heart of your No Bake Cannoli Cones Recipe and brings that melt-on-your-tongue satisfaction.

Step 7: Pipe the Filling into the Cones

Fill a piping bag with the ricotta whipped cream. Starting from the bottom of each cooled, chocolate-dipped cone, carefully pipe in the filling until the cone is generously stuffed to the top. Keeping the cones upright is essential here—stand them in a wine glass or a cardboard box with holes for easy holding.

Step 8: Add Final Toppings

Once filled, garnish each cone with your favorite toppings like cocoa nibs, sprinkles, or a shiny maraschino cherry to add both flavor and eye-catching appeal. These toppings add the classic finishing touches that make the cones irresistible.

How to Serve No Bake Cannoli Cones Recipe

Two waffle cones stand upright inside a clear glass, each with three visible layers. The bottom layer is the light brown waffle cone with a textured pattern. The next layer is dark chocolate coating the top edge of the cone, with one cone decorated with small chocolate chips and nuts, and the other cone decorated with white shredded coconut and chocolate chips. The top layer is white whipped cream, topped with bright red cherries with long stems. In the blurred background, more similar cones lie on a white marbled surface with scattered chocolate chips and crushed cookie pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For serving, consider fresh mint leaves, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of honey over your No Bake Cannoli Cones Recipe. These simple additions elevate the presentation and bring extra flavor nuances to its creamy core.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso or a sweet Italian wine like Moscato d’Asti. If you want something fresh on the side, think about a bowl of mixed berries or an arugula salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with presentation by arranging your cannoli cones standing upright in a decorative bowl filled with colorful candies or nuts, or even use vintage wine glasses for a classy look. You can also wrap the cones in patterned parchment paper tied with twine for parties or gift-giving occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store your ricotta filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the cones separate at room temperature in another airtight container so they maintain their crispness. Fill the cones just before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze assembled No Bake Cannoli Cones Recipe because the cones will become soggy as the filling thaws. However, you can freeze the ricotta filling separately for up to a month; thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then whip before assembly.

Reheating

Since this is a cold dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy the creamy filling chilled straight from the fridge and the cones freshly filled for the optimal experience.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat ricotta for this recipe?

While you can use low-fat ricotta, full-fat ricotta offers the best creamy texture and rich flavor for this No Bake Cannoli Cones Recipe. The full-fat version holds together better and creates that luscious mouthfeel traditional to cannoli.

How long do these No Bake Cannoli Cones last after assembling?

They are best enjoyed immediately, but if needed, you can keep them in the fridge for a few hours. Just be aware the cones might soften slightly over time, so plan to serve them promptly for that perfect crunch.

Can I make the filling without whipped cream?

The whipped cream lightens the filling and gives it an airy texture. If you skip it, the filling will be thick and dense, which some might prefer. Just know the balance of flavors and texture will change.

What toppings work best for the cone rims?

Shredded coconut, crushed nuts, turbinado sugar, and sprinkles all work wonderfully. Pick toppings based on your desired flavor and texture, and feel free to get creative and mix several for an extra festive appearance.

Is it okay to use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chips?

Yes, regular chocolate chips work fine, but mini chips melt more quickly and evenly, which makes dipping the cones easier and helps create a smoother chocolate coating.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to dive into this No Bake Cannoli Cones Recipe. It’s one of those treat-yourself desserts that feels fancy but takes almost no time to whip up. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special event, these cones are sure to impress and delight every bite. Give it a try—you might just have a new family favorite on your hands!