Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannoli

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Bright, bold, and beautifully indulgent—these Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannoli take everything you love about a classic lemon meringue pie and wrap it in a golden, crispy shell. It’s a delightful mashup of Italian pastry meets American pie, where the zing of lemon curd meets the silky sweetness of whipped cream. Each bite delivers crunch, tang, and melt-in-your-mouth bliss.

Perfect for springtime gatherings, summer parties, or simply treating yourself to a refreshing dessert, these cannoli are both eye-catching and taste bud-pleasing. The whipped cream and lemon curd swirl together in a dreamy balance of tart and sweet, while the crisp shell adds a satisfying crunch that ties it all together.

Why You’ll Love This Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannoli

• Unexpected Twist: A modern twist on two dessert classics, this recipe surprises and delights.
• Textural Heaven: Crunchy shell, creamy center, and luscious lemon curd make every bite count.
• Eye-Catching Dessert: They’re as beautiful on a platter as they are delicious.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling ahead and pipe when ready to serve.
• Party Favorite: These never fail to impress at brunches, showers, and BBQs.

What Kind of Cannoli Shells Should I Use?

While homemade cannoli shells are traditional and undeniably delicious, you can absolutely use store-bought shells for ease. Look for ones that are crispy, golden, and unsweetened—they’ll balance perfectly with the rich filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a chocolate-dipped edge for added flair.

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Ingredients for the Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannoli

To make this citrus-kissed dessert, you’ll need ingredients that layer brightness, creaminess, and crunch. Each plays a key role in creating a stunning treat.

• Cannoli Shells: These crisp pastry tubes are the edible vessels for your zesty filling. You can make your own or buy them pre-made.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: When whipped, this becomes a light and fluffy contrast to the tart lemon curd.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the whipped cream without graininess.
• Vanilla Extract: A hint of vanilla adds depth and warmth to the whipped component.
• Lemon Curd: This is the star flavor—tangy, smooth, and bursting with citrus brightness. Use store-bought or make your own.
• Lemon Zest: For garnish and added lemon aroma, a sprinkle on top makes all the difference.
• Optional: Lemon Slices: A lovely decorative touch for serving that enhances presentation.

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How To Make the Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannoli

Step 1: Whip the Cream

In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will be your meringue-like whipped layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Cannoli Shells

If using store-bought shells, ensure they are crisp and fresh. Set them on a platter and check for any cracks.

Step 3: Fill the Cannoli

Spoon or pipe lemon curd into the bottom of each shell, followed by a generous swirl of whipped cream. Alternate layers if you want a more marbled effect.

Step 4: Garnish

Dust each filled cannoli with powdered sugar and a light zesting of lemon peel. Add a small slice of lemon for a finishing touch.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

Refrigerate filled cannoli for about 15 minutes before serving. Serve cold for the best contrast in textures.

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Serving and Storing Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannoli

These cannoli are best enjoyed fresh, when the shells are crisp and the filling is chilled to perfection. Ideally, fill them just before serving to keep the shells from softening. If you need to prep in advance, store the whipped cream and lemon curd separately and assemble close to serving time.

Store any leftover filled cannoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The shells will gradually soften, but the flavor remains delightful.

This recipe makes about 8 cannoli, perfect for serving 4 to 6 people depending on appetite and occasion.

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What to Serve With Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannoli?

These light, citrusy cannoli pair beautifully with other fresh, vibrant treats. Here are some pairing suggestions:

Fresh Berry Salad

A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries complements the lemon flavor and adds natural sweetness.

Iced Mint Tea

Serve with a chilled glass of mint tea for a cooling balance to the tartness.

Vanilla Bean Gelato

The creaminess of gelato mirrors the cannoli filling while offering a temperature contrast.

Almond Biscotti

For a satisfying crunch, almond biscotti makes a wonderful side or coffee companion.

Lemonade Spritzer

Elevate your dessert with a sparkling lemonade spritzer garnished with mint.

Grilled Pineapple

A warm, caramelized bite that adds a tropical twist to your dessert course.

Pistachio Crumble

Sprinkle crushed pistachios over the cannoli or serve as a side crumble for added texture.

Espresso or Cappuccino

End your meal with a strong coffee to cut through the richness and highlight the lemon zing.

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Want More Citrus Dessert Ideas?

If you love these Zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Cannoli, you’ll probably enjoy these other sunshine-kissed treats too:

• Magic Lemon Cobbler for a warm, gooey citrus dessert.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups if you love cheesecake with a zesty berry twist.
• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for a flavor contrast of deep chocolate and fruit.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake that’s rich, fruity, and festive.
• Blueberry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls for another crispy dessert filled with creamy goodness.

These recipes keep the fun, fruity, and slightly indulgent theme going—perfect for weekend treats or whenever you want something special.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra lemony? Try a different fruit curd? Or add a drizzle of white chocolate?

I love hearing how you make these desserts your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake better, brighter treats.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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