Cannellini beans are one kind of white beans. Under the name white beans, you will find many bean varieties, like butter beans, navy beans, or cannellini beans. While they can all be used to make this hummus recipe, they all have different flavors. For example, cannellini beans have nutty flavors, and it's my favorite for hummus. On the other hand, butter beans are low in flavor and softer. They make this dip creamier.