🍞🍫🍊 Cannoli French Toast – A Decadent Italian-Inspired Breakfast Dream!

🍞🍫🍊 Cannoli French Toast – A Decadent Italian-Inspired Breakfast Dream!

What happens when the creamy sweetness of a classic Italian cannoli meets the golden perfection of French toast? Pure breakfast magic. ✨ This Cannoli French Toast combines all the indulgent flavors of the beloved Sicilian dessert — ricotta, mascarpone, vanilla, and a touch of orange zest — layered between slices of crisp, buttery French toast. Finished with mini chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s a decadent twist perfect for brunch, holidays, or special weekend mornings. Imagine biting into a warm, custardy toast filled with sweet ricotta cream — the ultimate blend of cozy and luxurious. 🇮🇹🍞💛

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Servings: 4 Servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Cannoli Filling:

1 cup ricotta cheese drained if watery
½ cup mascarpone cheese
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp orange zest optional but traditional
¼ cup mini chocolate chips

For the French Toast Batter:

4 large eggs
¾ cup milk or half-and-half
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
1 Tbsp sugar
Pinch of salt

For Assembly:

8 slices thick bread brioche or challah recommended
Butter for cooking
Powdered sugar extra mini chocolate chips, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup (for garnish)

Equipment

Mixing bowls
Hand or stand mixer
Whisk
Nonstick skillet or griddle
Spatula
Measuring cups & spoons

Method

Make the Cannoli Filling

In a bowl, beat together ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange zest until smooth.

Stir in mini chocolate chips.

Chill the filling while preparing the French toast.

Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until well combined.

Dip the Bread

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a little butter.
Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides.

Cook the French Toast

Cook each slice for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.
Transfer cooked slices to a wire rack or plate.
Assemble the Cannoli French Toast
Spread 2–3 tablespoons of the ricotta filling between two slices of French toast to form a sandwich.
Repeat with remaining slices.

Serve & Garnish

Dust with powdered sugar, sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips, and drizzle with chocolate syrup.
Serve warm and enjoy your sweet Italian-inspired breakfast!

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover French toast and filling separately for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze cooked French toast (without filling) up to 1 month.

Reheating: Warm in a toaster oven or skillet for 2–3 minutes; fill after reheating.

🥄 Variations

Chocolate Cannoli French Toast: Add 1 Tbsp cocoa powder to the filling and drizzle with dark chocolate sauce.

Berry Cannoli French Toast: Fold fresh raspberries or strawberries into the ricotta mixture.

Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top for a traditional Italian touch.

Mini Version: Use smaller bread slices and serve as French toast bites or brunch appetizers.

Vegan Version: Use coconut-based ricotta, almond milk, and vegan bread and butter.

❓ 10 FAQs

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes! Cream cheese works well but adds a slightly tangier flavor.

Can I make the filling ahead?
Absolutely — prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate.

Can I use regular sandwich bread?
You can, but thicker bread like brioche or challah gives a better texture.

Can I bake this instead of frying?
Yes — bake at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I use full-fat ricotta?
Definitely — it gives the creamiest result.

Do I have to use orange zest?
It’s optional but adds that authentic cannoli flavor.

Can I make this less sweet?
Reduce the powdered sugar in the filling to 2 tablespoons.

Can I add liqueur for flavor?
A splash of amaretto or Kahlúa can add a sophisticated touch.

What’s the best way to serve it?
Warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and maybe a few berries on top!

Can I turn this into a casserole?
Yes — layer soaked bread with ricotta filling in a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.

🏁 Conclusion

This Cannoli French Toast is a delicious fusion of two beloved classics — rich Italian cannoli cream and golden, fluffy French toast. Every bite bursts with creamy ricotta filling, chocolate chips, and subtle citrusy sweetness. Perfect for brunches, special breakfasts, or when you just want to treat yourself, this recipe brings a little slice of Italy to your morning table. 🍞🍫🍊✨