Bread Cannoli

The creative aperitif you don’t expect

These savoury cannoli are an original and surprising idea, inspired by the famous Sicilian classic but reinterpreted in a modern, savoury way. Their shape echoes the iconic look of traditional cannoli, while the filling and preparation tell a completely different story: slices of sandwich bread, rolled thin and lightly baked, become a soft, golden wrap that encloses a creamy, aromatic filling. Mutti Pasta Sauce with Basil, rich and fresh, is combined with melting cheese to create a comforting balance of flavours that appeals to different tastes without sacrificing simplicity. To finish, a light coating turns beautifully crisp and golden during cooking, adding contrast and character to every bite.

A little extra touch for your savoury bread cannoli

As well as being delicious and fun to eat, these cannoli require very few ingredients and offer plenty of room for creativity. The filling can be enriched with sliced meats (or plant-based alternatives for a vegan version), or with grilled or sautéed vegetables such as courgettes, aubergines or peppers. Herbs and spices can also make a real difference: a pinch of black pepper, a touch of chilli or some fresh oregano will add depth and aroma, making each variation feel personal and unique.

Cooking methods: oven, frying or air fryer

Baking is ideal for achieving golden, light cannoli with a crisp coating and a soft, melting centre. For a richer and more indulgent result, you can opt for frying: just a few minutes in hot oil are enough to create an especially crunchy and irresistible finish. For a quicker, lighter option, the air fryer is an excellent alternative, delivering evenly browned cannoli that are crisp on the outside and creamy inside, with very little added fat. Whichever method you choose, the result will be a creative, crowd-pleasing finger food, best served hot for a relaxed and irresistibly crunchy aperitif.