Decadent Pumpkin Cannoli: No Bake Fall Delight for Everyone

Hi I'm Melany

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on September 7, 2025

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, the allure of pumpkin-infused treats beckons. That’s where these No Bake Pumpkin Cannoli come in, bringing a refreshing twist to the classic Italian dessert. Imagine biting into a crunchy cannoli shell filled with a creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake — the perfect indulgence for fall gatherings! Not only is this recipe incredibly simple to prepare, but it also saves you the hassle of baking, letting you savor the season without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re sure to impress your friends at Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving, adding a delightful touch to your dessert table. Are you ready to dive into the sweet world of pumpkin perfection?

Why You’ll Crave Pumpkin Cannoli

Indulgent, the creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling takes the classic cannoli to new heights. No Baking Required: Spend less time in the kitchen; this recipe is effortlessly simple. Perfect for Fall: Each bite captures the essence of autumn with warm spice notes. Impressive Presentation: Delight guests with this unique twist on an old favorite, ideal for your next gathering. Just like our Pumpkin Pie Flaky for the holidays, these cannoli will shine on any dessert table!

Pumpkin Cannoli Ingredients

For the Filling

Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds lightness and volume to achieve a fluffy texture in your pumpkin cannoli.
Cream Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy base for the filling; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling and helps you achieve a smooth texture; adjust to your taste.
Canned Pumpkin Puree – The primary flavor of the pumpkin cannoli, giving it that distinct taste and vibrant color.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm spices into the filling, enhancing the cozy autumn flavor profile.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor that complements both the pumpkin and the spices.

For the Cannoli

Cannoli Shells – Store-bought for convenience; they contribute the essential crunch to this no-bake dessert.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cannoli

Step 1: Whip Cream
In a mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This light and fluffy cream will add volume to your pumpkin cannoli filling. Set the whipped cream aside for now.

Step 2: Mix Filling
In the same mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese, canned pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. The vibrant orange color and smooth texture of the filling will signal it’s ready for the next step.

Step 3: Fold Ingredients
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture using a spatula. Start with a third of the whipped cream to lighten the mixture, then gradually add the remaining cream. This requires a delicate hand to preserve the airiness of the whipped cream, ensuring your pumpkin cannoli filling stays light and creamy.

Step 4: Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows all the delicious flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your pumpkin cannoli. The filling should thicken slightly, becoming even more velvety.

Step 5: Prepare Cannoli
Once chilled, take a piping bag and fill it with the pumpkin mixture, ensuring no air pockets remain. Pipe the filling into the cannoli shells from one end, then gently insert into the other side, allowing the creamy goodness to fill the entire shell. Aim for an even distribution to achieve that perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.

Step 6: Serve
Before serving, dust the filled pumpkin cannoli with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Plate them beautifully and enjoy immediately to savor that delightful crunch from the shells paired with the luscious filling. These no bake pumpkin cannoli are best enjoyed fresh for an unforgettable autumn dessert experience!

Pumpkin Cannoli Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful Pumpkin Cannoli, enhancing flavors or accommodating dietary preferences!

Mascarpone Cheese: Substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for an even richer, creamier filling that elevates the flavor profile.
Fresh Pumpkin: Try using fresh pumpkin instead of canned for a more vibrant taste and texture. Just roast and puree it ahead of time!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream and dairy-free cream cheese to make a delightful vegan version.
Spice It Up: Incorporate nutmeg or cardamom in addition to pumpkin pie spice for a unique flavor twist. Play around with the spices to find your perfect mix!
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the filled cannoli for a touch of decadence; this pairs beautifully with the creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling.
Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to your filling for extra crunch and a delicious nutty flavor. This will add a delightful contrast to the velvety filling.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Instead of powdered sugar, sprinkle the shells lightly with cinnamon sugar before serving for an extra touch of fall flavor.
Sweetness Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the level of powdered sugar based on your taste preference. A little extra sweetness can enhance the creamy richness of the filling perfectly.

These variations invite creativity in your kitchen! Check out our Pumpkin Pie Flaky recipe for more scrumptious ways to enjoy pumpkin this season!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cannoli

Fill Just Before Serving: To maintain the perfect texture, fill the cannoli shells right before serving. If left filled too long, the shells can become soggy.
Chill the Filling: Allow the pumpkin filling to chill for at least 2 hours. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a richer taste in your pumpkin cannoli.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling before piping into the shells and adjust the powdered sugar according to your preference. This ensures the perfect level of sweetness for your guests!
Pipe with Care: Use a piping bag to fill the shells, ensuring there are no air pockets. This technique helps achieve a consistent creamy texture throughout your pumpkin cannoli.
Garnish Creatively: Consider garnishing with mini chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch. This not only enhances flavor but adds visual appeal to your dessert!

What to Serve with No Bake Pumpkin Cannoli

As you prepare to indulge in these autumn-inspired delights, consider complementing your meal with equally delightful side dishes and treats.

Spiced Apple Cider: Warm and fragrant, this drink enhances the pumpkin flavors and conjures cozy fall memories.
Pecan Pie: Rich and sweet, pecan pie’s nutty crunch brings an inviting contrast to the creamy cannoli.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Soft and fluffy, these donuts add an extra touch of sweetness and tie in fall spices beautifully.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: The earthiness of roasted squash, combined with cranberries and feta, provides a refreshing and wholesome contrast.
Chocolate Espresso Brownies: The rich bitterness of chocolate complements the sweet, spiced pumpkin filling, making for a perfect pairing.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, a scoop of vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness while adding an extra layer of indulgence.
Maple Pecan Granola: Crunchy and sweet, this granola can be served alongside or sprinkled atop the cannoli for added texture.

Enjoy these pairings to elevate your dessert experience, or create a lovely dessert table that will leave your guests enchanted!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cannoli

Fridge: Store filled pumpkin cannoli in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Consume them soon to enjoy the perfect crunch of the shells.

Filling Storage: If you have leftover filling, keep it in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Fill the shells just before serving for the best texture.

Freezer: While it’s best to avoid freezing filled cannoli, the pumpkin filling can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before refilling the shells.

Reheating: Simply refrigerate the filling if not used immediately. Avoid reheating cannoli shells, as they can lose their crispness and become soggy.

Make Ahead Options

These No Bake Pumpkin Cannoli are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can easily prepare the creamy pumpkin filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and refrigerating it in an airtight container. The cannoli shells, however, should remain unfilled until just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy. To finish, simply pipe the chilled filling into the cannoli shells right before you’re ready to delight your guests. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality pumpkin cannoli with minimal effort, all while retaining that delightful crunch!

Pumpkin Cannoli Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use in my pumpkin cannoli?
Absolutely! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, as it’s perfectly flavored and ready to go. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin for a richer flavor, just ensure it’s well-cooked and smooth.

How should I store any leftovers of filled pumpkin cannoli?
Very well! Store filled pumpkin cannoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. You’ll want to enjoy them quickly to keep the shells nice and crispy. If you have leftover filling, keep it in a separate container and it will last for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze the filling for my pumpkin cannoli?
Of course! The pumpkin filling can be frozen for up to 1 month. To do this, simply place it in an airtight container and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before refilling your cannoli shells.

What can I do if the cannoli shells become soggy?
No worries! If you find that your cannoli shells have become soggy, it usually means they were filled too early. To prevent this in the future, always fill your shells right before serving. You can also try to re-crisp the shells in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes before filling them again.

Are pumpkin cannoli safe for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! This pumpkin cannoli recipe is nut-free as long as your cannoli shells do not contain any nut ingredients. Always double-check the ingredient label to ensure they meet your dietary needs and consult with any guests who may have allergies.

Can I use a different type of cheese in my cannoli filling?
Certainly! While cream cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese for an even creamier texture and richness. Just remember that using a different cheese may slightly alter the flavor profile, but it can also create a delicious variation!