Experience the decadent fusion of Italian flavors with our Cannoli Pound Cake recipe.
This delightful dessert combines the richness of a traditional pound cake with the irresistible essence of creamy cannoli filling.
Indulge in every bite as you savor the sweet ricotta and chocolate chips, perfectly complemented by a hint of citrus zest.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
Cannoli Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Equipment
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Zester or grater
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, ricotta cheese, and lemon zest.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Make Cannoli Filling: In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
Layer Batter and Filling: Pour half of the pound cake batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the cannoli filling over the batter, then top with the remaining batter.
Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Once cooled, slice and serve.
Nutritional Facts
(Per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 6g
Health Benefits
The “Cannoli Pound Cake Recipe” combines the indulgent flavors of traditional cannoli with the rich texture of pound cake. Here are some potential health benefits:
Protein from Ricotta Cheese:
Cannoli filling typically contains ricotta cheese, which is a good source of protein.
Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining muscle mass.
Calcium from Ricotta Cheese:
Ricotta cheese is also rich in calcium, which is important for bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission.
Healthy Fats from Ricotta Cheese:
While ricotta cheese does contain fat, it’s primarily unsaturated fat, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease when consumed in moderation.
Moderate Sugar Content:
While pound cake recipes typically contain sugar, you can control the amount of sugar you use in your homemade Cannoli Pound Cake.
By reducing the sugar content or using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, you can enjoy a sweet treat with less added sugar.
Serving Size:
Portion control is key when enjoying any dessert, including Cannoli Pound Cake.
By enjoying a small slice as part of a balanced diet, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging in excess calories or sugar.
Enjoyment and Satisfaction:
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and enjoying delicious treats like Cannoli Pound Cake in moderation can contribute to feelings of happiness and satisfaction.
Taking the time to savor and enjoy your food mindfully can enhance the overall dining experience.
Remember to balance your indulgences with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support overall health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use whole milk ricotta cheese?
Yes, whole milk ricotta cheese can be used for a richer texture, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the nutritional content.
2. Can I substitute the lemon zest?
If you prefer, you can omit the lemon zest or replace it with orange zest for a different citrus flavor.
3. Can I add nuts to the cannoli filling?
Certainly! Chopped pistachios or almonds can be a delicious addition to the cannoli filling for added crunch.
4. How should I store leftovers?
Wrap the leftover pound cake tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
5. Can I freeze Cannoli Pound Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.