Cannelloni vs. Cannoli — What's the Difference?

Cannelloni is an Italian pasta dish where cylindrical pasta tubes are filled with savory fillings like ricotta cheese, spinach, or ground meat, then baked in a sauce. It's a traditional Italian main course, often served with béchamel and marinara sauces. Cannoli, on the other hand, are a sweet Italian dessert originating from Sicily. They consist of tube-shaped shells of fried pastry dough, traditionally filled with a sweet, creamy mixture containing ricotta cheese, sugar, and often chocolate or fruit.

The making of cannelloni involves stuffing pre-cooked pasta tubes and baking them, usually covered in sauce and cheese. The fillings are savory and the dish is often hearty and served as a main course. Cannoli are made by wrapping a circular dough around a metal tube, deep frying it, and then filling it with a sweet ricotta-based cream. Cannoli are typically enjoyed as a dessert or a treat.

Cannelloni are part of traditional Italian cuisine and are often found in Italian restaurants and home cooking. Cannoli are a staple in Italian bakeries and have become popular worldwide, often served at festivals and celebrations.

The texture of cannelloni is tender and is complemented by the richness of the sauces. The pasta itself is mildly flavored, allowing the fillings and sauces to stand out. In contrast, cannoli have a crispy, crunchy shell with a creamy and sweet filling, offering a contrast of textures.

In terms of regional origin, cannelloni are associated with Italian cuisine in general, without a specific regional attribution. Cannoli, however, are specifically tied to Sicilian cuisine and are a symbol of Sicilian pastry and dessert tradition.