Name: Delicious Vegan Cannoli Cake That's Dairy-Free Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 37 min
Total time: 67 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour.); 1 cup vegan ricotta (Use homemade or store-bought.); 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 cup vegetable oil (Avocado oil is recommended.); 1/2 cup vegan butter (Can replace with more vegetable oil if needed.); 1 cup oat milk (Soy or almond milk are excellent substitutes.); 1 tbsp vinegar (Activates baking soda.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Coconut sugar is a good alternative.); 1 cup chocolate chips (Ensure dairy-free.)

What if I told you that you can create a stunning dessert that captures the essence of traditional Italian cannoli without any dairy or eggs? When I first made this Unbelievably Vegan Cannoli Cake, the joy of transforming a beloved classic into a completely plant-based treat was palpable. This layered masterpiece, featuring luscious dairy-free ricotta and rich vanilla, is not just incredibly delicious; it’s also a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in. Plus, with its fluffy texture and chocolate chip surprises, this cake can satisfy both sweet cravings and dietary preferences. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s dive into this decadent vegan creation that proves indulgence doesn’t have to mean compromise!

Why is this Vegan Cannoli Cake a Must-Try?

Decadent Flavor: Experience the rich and creamy taste of traditional cannoli without dairy or eggs!

Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure you’ll impress family and friends without the fuss.

Dairy-Free Delight: Perfect for anyone seeking a delectable treat that fits a vegan lifestyle.

Unique Presentation: This layered cake becomes a stunning centerpiece for any occasion, making it ideal for celebrations.

Versatile Base: Customize with different add-ins like dried fruit or flavored extracts for your twist!

Looking for more mouthwatering vegan desserts? Try these Vegan Caramelized Onion pizza rolls for a savory treat or enjoy a slice of Apple Cake Cream for a fruity finish!

Vegan Cannoli Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-purpose flour – A staple for structure; you can swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free Vegan Cannoli Cake.
Vegan ricotta – Use homemade or store-bought for a rich, creamy filling; Kite Hill’s almond-based ricotta is a great alternative.
Baking powder – This leavening agent ensures your cake rises to fluffy perfection.
Baking soda – Works with vinegar to give the cake its light texture.
Vegetable oil – Adds moisture; avocado oil is a recommended choice.
Vegan butter – Imparts richness; more vegetable oil can be used in a pinch.
Oat milk – Provides hydration for a tender cake; soy or almond milk are excellent substitutes.
Vinegar – Activates the baking soda, enhancing the overall texture of the cake.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter beautifully; coconut sugar can offer a unique flavor twist.
Chocolate chips – Add delightful pockets of sweetness; ensure they are dairy-free for a vegan-friendly touch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Cannoli Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Vegan Ricotta
If you’re making homemade vegan ricotta, start by blending dairy-free milk with a thickener, like lemon juice or vinegar. Allow the mixture to thicken for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This dairy-free ricotta will serve as the luscious filling for your Vegan Cannoli Cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined, as this helps the cake to rise evenly. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients, ensuring your Vegan Cannoli Cake will have a delightful texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, vegan butter, oat milk, vinegar, and granulated sugar until smooth and homogenous. This mixture should be creamy and well-blended; the combination will add moisture and sweetness to your cake. After achieving a nice consistency, move on to combine it with your dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mix into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a dense cake. Once incorporated, fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter, adding those delightful bursts of sweetness.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pans by greasing them lightly. Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared pans and place them in the oven. Bake for about 37 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, revealing a perfectly fluffy Vegan Cannoli Cake.

Step 6: Cool & Assemble
Once baked, allow the cake layers to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before frosting with your vegan ricotta filling. For an extra touch, you can decorate the top with mini vegan cannoli or additional chocolate chips to enhance the presentation of your beautiful Vegan Cannoli Cake.

Storage Tips for Vegan Cannoli Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the Vegan Cannoli Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving at a gathering; beyond that, please refrigerate to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps keep the cake moist and the flavors vibrant.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; defrost in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, microwave slices for about 10-15 seconds, just enough to take the chill off without drying it out.

Expert Tips for Vegan Cannoli Cake

Drain Vegan Ricotta: Ensure your vegan ricotta is well-drained to achieve the perfect creamy texture for filling, avoiding any excess moisture.
Accurate Measurements: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to a dense Vegan Cannoli Cake.
Cool Completely: Allow each cake layer to cool completely before frosting; this prevents smearing and helps the frosting set nicely.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all wet ingredients are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter and even baking.
Taste the Batter: Before baking, taste your cake batter (keep it egg-free!) and adjust sweetness or flavors as needed.
Storing Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain freshness; the flavors will meld beautifully!

Make Ahead Options

These Unbelievably Vegan Cannoli Cakes are a great option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply bake the cake, let it cool completely, and then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. The vegan ricotta filling can also be made up to 24 hours ahead; store it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. When ready to serve, assemble the cake by frosting the layers with the filling and decorating with mini vegan cannoli or chocolate chips. This approach not only saves time but also ensures the cake remains just as delicious and fresh when it’s time to wow your guests!

Vegan Cannoli Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Vegan Cannoli Cake to suit your taste buds!

Chocolate Chippers: Swap chocolate chips for dairy-free white chocolate chips for a fun twist on flavor and color. Who doesn’t love a little extra sweetness?
Fruit Lover’s Delight: Add dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a chewy surprise in each bite. They bring a burst of flavor that elevates this classic dessert to new heights!
Nuts for Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pistachios or walnuts, for delightful texture. The crunch pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta filling.
Zesty Addition: A splash of orange zest adds a citrusy brightness that complements the sweet ricotta perfectly. It gives a refreshing lift to each slice!
Almond Essence: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a delightful twist on traditional flavors. It transforms the cake into a nutty dream, reminiscent of Italian pastries.
Festive Touch: Dress up your cake with colorful sprinkles for holidays or parties. This simple addition brings a celebratory vibe to your Vegan Cannoli Cake.
Decadent Layers: Create a layered cake by adding between the layers whipped coconut cream for an even creamier texture. The richness will have everyone asking for seconds!
Spicy Surprise: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into your batter. This adds a warm spice that will make your cake even more comforting!

If you’re eager to explore even more delicious vegan recipes, consider trying these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cake or indulge with Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed treats!

What to Serve with Unbelievably Vegan Cannoli Cake

This delightful dessert deserves an equally charming spread of accompaniments to enhance its rich flavors and invite joy to your table.

Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a bright, tart contrast that balances the cake’s sweetness beautifully.
Creamy Coconut Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy, this dairy-free whipped cream complements the cake’s texture and lends a tropical vibe.
Coffee: A rich, bold brew pairs perfectly with the cake, while a splash of almond milk creates an inviting harmony of flavors.
Vegan Gelato: A scoop of dairy-free gelato on the side offers a luxurious, indulgent pairing to the fluffy layers of the cake.
Chocolate Espresso Sauce: Drizzling a deep, chocolatey espresso sauce over each slice enhances the cannoli cake’s chocolate chips and adds a layer of richness.
Toasted Nuts: Chopped, toasted pistachios or hazelnuts sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch and enhance the cake’s Italian-inspired flair.
Citrus Salad: A light salad of citrus fruits brightens the palette and provides a refreshing counterpoint to the cake’s decadence.
Vegan Coffee Cake: For an extra special treat, serve with a slice of moist vegan coffee cake for a perfect brunch pairing.
Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade can cleanse the palate between bites, making each taste of the cake feel exciting.

Unbelievably Vegan Cannoli Cake Recipe FAQs

How can I select the best vegan ricotta for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing vegan ricotta, look for a product that’s creamy and has a good thickness. I often recommend Kite Hill’s almond-based ricotta, but make sure to consider nut allergies! If you prefer homemade, mix a dairy-free milk like almond or soy with a thickener (like lemon juice) and let it sit for about 10 minutes to achieve a good consistency.

How should I store the Vegan Cannoli Cake?
To keep your Vegan Cannoli Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you’re not planning to enjoy it all within that timeframe, you can keep cake slices at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating them.

Can I freeze the Vegan Cannoli Cake?
Certainly! To freeze your Vegan Cannoli Cake, first, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This will protect it from freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply defrost overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain its delicious texture.

What should I do if my cake turns out dense?
Very! A dense cake can often be caused by overly compacted flour. To prevent this, gently spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it with a knife instead of scooping directly from the container. Additionally, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps create a smoother batter and promotes better rising while baking.

Are there any dietary considerations for this cake?
Yes, indeed! This Vegan Cannoli Cake is egg-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan lifestyle. However, be cautious about using nut-based vegan ricottas if you have nut allergies. For an alternative, you can make a tofu-based ricotta using silken tofu blended with a bit of lemon juice and nutritional yeast for flavor.

How can I enhance the flavor of the Vegan Cannoli Cake?
The more the merrier! You can always add extracts like almond or orange zest for a unique twist! If you want to elevate the indulgence, consider folding in finely chopped dried fruit or nuts along with the chocolate chips.