If you’ve ever fallen in love with the crispy, creamy delight of a traditional cannoli, then you are in for a treat with this easy and absolutely irresistible Cannoli Dip Recipe. It takes all the best parts of that classic Italian dessert—the luscious ricotta and mascarpone cheeses, the sweet hint of vanilla and cinnamon, and those playful little chocolate chips—and turns them into a luscious, shareable dip. Perfect for parties, cozy nights in, or anytime you want that incredible cannoli flavor with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you taste this rich, creamy dip, it’ll become your go-to dessert for entertaining and snacking alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple, relying on just a handful of key ingredients that each play a starring role in creating the dip’s creamy texture and signature flavor. Every element here balances sweetness, richness, and a touch of spice to make this dessert dip absolutely unforgettable.
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese: Provides a smooth, creamy base with authentic Italian flair.
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (room temperature): Adds luscious richness and a velvety texture that makes the dip unbelievably smooth.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens gently without any graininess, blending perfectly into the creamy cheeses.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth of flavor that makes each bite sing.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Offers a subtle spice that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds delightful pops of chocolate that melt in your mouth.
- Chopped pistachios or crushed cannoli shells for garnish (optional): Provides a lovely crunch and a pop of color for a truly authentic presentation.
How to Make Cannoli Dip Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Cheeses Until Creamy
Start by combining the whole milk ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, beat them together until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and wonderfully fluffy. This step is key because it creates the luscious base texture everyone loves in a cannoli.
Step 2: Sweeten and Spice It Up
Once your cheeses are perfectly whipped, add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Beat again gently until everything is fully incorporated and the dip looks silky and inviting. These ingredients add that signature sweet and subtly spiced flavor that makes this Cannoli Dip Recipe stand out.
Step 3: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Now, it’s time to introduce some delightful texture by folding in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir them gently so they distribute evenly without breaking, giving each spoonful a little surprise chocolaty crunch.
Step 4: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, making the dip even richer and more harmonious. Plus, chilling firms up the dip slightly, making it perfect for scooping.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, transfer the dip to your favorite serving bowl and sprinkle with extra chocolate chips, crushed pistachios, or even bits of cannoli shells if you like. This final flourish gives the dip a festive look and adds extra texture for that authentic cannoli experience.
How to Serve Cannoli Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Choosing the right garnishes can take your Cannoli Dip Recipe to another level. Whether you opt for chopped pistachios, crushed cannoli shells, or extra chocolate chips, these toppings add crunch and a little color contrast against the creamy dip. They also enhance that true cannoli vibe that everyone loves.
Side Dishes
This dip is wildly versatile when it comes to dippers. Broken waffle cones offer crunch and a touch of vanilla that pairs perfectly with the creamy sweetness. Graham crackers lend a nostalgic, buttery snap, while fresh fruit like strawberries or apple slices can add refreshing bright notes to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of just tossing the dip in a bowl, try serving it in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or decorative ceramic ramekins for festive occasions. You can also set up a dipping board with an assortment of cookies, crackers, and sliced fruits alongside the Cannoli Dip Recipe so everyone can customize their bites. Presentation can make the experience feel extra special!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Cannoli Dip Recipe should be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture and fresh flavor. Just give it a good stir before serving again to smooth it out.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal for this particular dip because it can affect the texture of the cheeses, you can try freezing it in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and stir thoroughly before serving to help restore creaminess, although the texture might be slightly grainier than fresh.
Reheating
This dip is best served cold, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, just bring it to room temperature by leaving it out for about 15-20 minutes before serving if it has been chilled.
FAQs
Can I use part-skim ricotta for the Cannoli Dip Recipe?
You can, but whole milk ricotta gives the best creamy and rich texture that makes this dip so special. Part-skim ricotta tends to be drier and might make the dip less luscious.
Is there a way to make this dip dairy-free?
Replacing the ricotta and mascarpone is tricky because they define the dip’s texture and flavor. However, experimenting with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut-based ricotta alternatives could work if you’re open to tweaking the taste and consistency.
How can I make the dip less sweet?
The sweetness is easily adjustable by reducing the powdered sugar. Start with ½ cup and add more gradually to suit your taste perfectly without losing that classic cannoli essence.
Can I prepare this dip without a hand mixer?
Yes! You can use a sturdy whisk or a spatula to mix, though it might take more effort to get the mixture smooth and fluffy. A hand mixer just makes it easier to achieve that perfect, creamy texture.
What are the best dippers for Cannoli Dip Recipe?
Broken waffle cones, graham crackers, or fresh fruit slices like strawberries and apples are fantastic choices. You can also get creative and use biscotti, shortbread cookies, or even pretzels for a sweet and salty contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Cannoli Dip Recipe is an absolute delight that brings together the best flavors of a classic Italian treat in a fun and shareable way. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just craving a sweet snack, it’s effortless to whip up and impossible not to love. So, go ahead—try it today, share it with friends, and watch this creamy, dreamy dip become an instant favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Cannoli Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and indulgent Cannoli Dip is a delightful twist on the classic Italian cannoli dessert. Made with smooth ricotta and mascarpone cheeses, sweetened with powdered sugar and vanilla, and speckled with mini chocolate chips, it’s perfect as a dip for broken waffle cones, graham crackers, or fresh fruit. Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required, it’s an easy and crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, room temperature
Sweeteners & Flavorings
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Add-ins & Garnishes
- ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Chopped pistachios or crushed cannoli shells for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese. Beat with a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add sweeteners and flavorings: Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to the cheese mixture. Beat again with the mixer until everything is fully incorporated and the dip is light and fluffy.
- Fold in chocolate chips: Gently fold in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula to evenly distribute them without breaking them.
- Chill the dip: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly.
- Serve: When ready to serve, transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Top with additional chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, or crushed cannoli shells if desired. Serve with broken waffle cones, graham crackers, or fresh fruit for dipping.
Notes
- For an extra smooth texture, strain the ricotta cheese using cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve for several hours before mixing.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar according to your preference.
- This dip can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
