Easy Cannoli Cake

Step 1

Place 1 cup (237 ml) of the heavy whipping cream in a medium microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 90 seconds.

Step 2

Add 1 cup (178 g) of the mini chocolate chips, making sure the chips are all submerged.

Step 3

Let sit for two minutes and then stir gently until the chocolate is all melted and the mixture is smooth. If the chocolate isn't melting all the way after stirring well, microwave the mixture in 15 second increments until smooth, stirring well in between. (See note 3.) Place in the refrigerator.

Step 4

Place the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a medium bowl. Whisk until combined and smooth. Add 1/2 cup (89 g) of mini chocolate chips and stir to combine.

Step 5

Using an immersion blender or hand beaters, beat the remaining 1 cup (237 ml) of heavy whipping cream to stiff peaks. (If you are using an immersion blender, place the cream in a tall-sided container; if using hand beaters, place the cream in a medium bowl.)

Step 6

Add half of the whipped cream to the ricotta mixture and gently fold it in. Then fold in the remaining whipped cream. Set cannoli filling aside.

Step 7

Cut the frozen pound cake into 1/4 inch (6.35 mm) slices using a serrated knife. Layer some of the cake pieces into a deep 8 x 8 inch (20 x 20 cm) pan so the bottom is completely covered in one layer of cake. (See notes 4 - 5.) Depending on the size and shape of the cake pieces, you may need to trim some of the pieces to fit. It's ok if the pieces overlap slightly. If they do, very gently press them down to remove some of the air pockets.

Step 8

Add half of the cannoli filling on top of the bottom cake layer and spread it so the filling is even. Add another layer of cake to the top. Gently press the cake pieces down so the cake adheres to the filling underneath.

Step 9

Repeat this process by adding the remaining filling and one more layer of cake on top.

Step 10

Retrieve the ganache from the fridge and stir until smooth. Pour all of the ganache over the top and smooth out with a spoon if necessary. Top with as many of the remaining mini chocolate chips as you like.

Step 11

Place in the fridge for a minimum of three hours or overnight. Cover the cake after it has been in the fridge for 15 minutes; this allows the ganache to firm up so the cover will be less likely to stick.