If you’re searching for a dessert that’s effortlessly impressive and totally irresistible, this Cannoli Dip Recipe is about to become your new go-to treat. Inspired by the classic cannoli but with none of the fuss of frying shells, this dip serves up all those creamy, dreamy flavors we love—velvety mascarpone, sweet ricotta, and just the right touch of chocolate—perfect for dunking your favorite dippers. It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties, a speedy fix for weeknight cravings, and truly brings all the charm of an Italian bakery right to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cannoli Dip Recipe lies in its short list of ingredients, each one carefully chosen to bring authentic Italian dessert flair. Every component has a distinct role, working together for the creamiest texture and the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and crunch.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese: Use high-quality ricotta for the ideal creamy base; straining it will give your dip a smooth, silky finish.
- Mascarpone cheese (room temperature): This creamy Italian cheese brings incredible richness and a gentle tang that pairs beautifully with the sweet elements.
- Powdered sugar: Whips in easily and adds just the right amount of sweetness without any graininess; feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla deepens the flavor and makes the dip taste unmistakably like classic cannoli filling.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings subtle warmth, making every bite feel extra cozy and just a little bit fancy.
- Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips: Tiny chips mean chocolate in every bite and the perfect bit of crunch and contrast.
- Chopped pistachios or crushed cannoli shells (optional): For sprinkling on top, these add color, crunch, and extra authenticity.
How to Make Cannoli Dip Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Cheeses
Start by combining the ricotta and mascarpone cheeses in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, beat them together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This step sets the foundation for the luscious texture we all adore in the Cannoli Dip Recipe, so take your time to work out any lumps.
Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor
Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to your cheese mixture. Beat again until everything is well-blended and no streaks remain. The sugar will dissolve, and the flavorings will gently perfume the dip, ensuring every scoopful tastes perfectly balanced.
Step 3: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
With a spatula, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. This step is about adding texture—you want those adorable chocolate flecks scattered throughout, not broken into the mix. Be gentle so the chips stay intact and don’t overmix.
Step 4: Chill the Dip
Cover the bowl and refrigerate your Cannoli Dip Recipe for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to thicken just right. If you can plan ahead, a little longer never hurts—the colder it gets, the better it scoops!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, transfer the dip to a bowl and top generously with extra chocolate chips, a shower of chopped pistachios, or a crumble of cannoli shells for that authentic Italian touch. Now, it’s ready to wow everyone at your table.
How to Serve Cannoli Dip Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches make this dip extra-special. Sprinkle chopped pistachios, mini chocolate chips, or crushed cannoli shells all over the top. Not only do these garnishes bring extra flavor and crunch, but they also make your Cannoli Dip Recipe instantly eye-catching and festive for any occasion.
Side Dishes
This dip shines as a dessert centerpiece, but you can surround it with a variety of delicious dippers. Think broken waffle cones for that classic cannoli flavor, crisp graham crackers, buttery cookies, or an array of fresh fruit like strawberries and apple slices for a lighter option. The contrast in textures makes every dip a different adventure!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try dividing your Cannoli Dip Recipe into mini individual cups for grab-and-go ease. If you want to channel those bakery vibes, serve it in a hollowed bread bowl or rim your serving dish with cannoli shells. You can even pipe the dip into mini cones or pastry shells for adorable, bite-sized treats that look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cannoli Dip Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to three days. A quick stir before serving will bring it back to creamy perfection, especially if it has firmed up a bit in the fridge.
Freezing
While technically possible, freezing is not recommended for this dip. The ricotta and mascarpone may separate and lose that dreamy texture once thawed, which can make the Cannoli Dip Recipe grainy rather than creamy.
Reheating
This dip is meant to be enjoyed cold, straight from the refrigerator. If it’s just a little too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes and give it a quick stir—no actual reheating required!
FAQs
Can I use part-skim ricotta instead of whole milk?
You can use part-skim ricotta if that’s what you have on hand, but the texture will be less rich and creamy than with whole milk ricotta. For the best Cannoli Dip Recipe, whole milk ricotta gives superior softness and flavor.
Is it possible to make this dip vegan?
Yes! Substitute the ricotta and mascarpone with your favorite plant-based alternatives, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. The texture and flavor will shift, but you’ll still enjoy a delightful, sweet, vegan-friendly Cannoli Dip Recipe.
What are some fun mix-ins besides chocolate chips?
Chopped candied orange peel, roasted nuts, or even a few spoonfuls of mini marshmallows can take your Cannoli Dip Recipe in a playful direction. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own signature flair!
Can I make this dip ahead for a party?
Absolutely! Prepare your Cannoli Dip Recipe the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. Add garnishes right before serving for the freshest look and texture.
Why does my dip taste grainy?
Ricotta can sometimes be grainy if it hasn’t been strained well enough or if the sugar hasn’t fully dissolved. Try straining your ricotta thoroughly and sift your powdered sugar before mixing for an ultra-smooth Cannoli Dip Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Cannoli Dip Recipe transforms an Italian classic into a laid-back, shareable treat that’s almost too easy to love. Give it a try at your next gathering or weeknight sweet fix—you’ll be surprised at how quickly it disappears!
Print
Cannoli Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy, sweet decadence of this Cannoli Dip that captures all the flavors of a traditional cannoli in an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert dip. Perfect for parties or a simple treat at home.
Ingredients
Ricotta Mascarpone Mixture:
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
Sweetening and Flavorings:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Additional:
- ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Chopped pistachios or crushed cannoli shells for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ricotta Mascarpone Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese. Beat with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sweeteners and Flavorings: Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, then beat again until fully incorporated.
- Finalize the Dip: Fold in the mini chocolate chips. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve: When ready to serve, transfer to a serving bowl and top with additional chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, or crushed cannoli shells if desired. Serve with broken waffle cones, graham crackers, or fruit for dipping.
Notes
- For a smoother dip, strain the ricotta cheese using cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve for several hours before mixing.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
