If you have a sweet tooth and love the classic Italian dessert, you are going to adore this Cannoli Dip Recipe. It captures all the creamy, dreamy goodness of traditional cannoli filling but in a quick and easy dip form that’s perfect for sharing. Creamy ricotta and mascarpone cheeses blend seamlessly with a hint of vanilla and just the right amount of mini chocolate chips, creating a luscious treat that everyone will reach for. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a comforting indulgence, this Cannoli Dip Recipe is a total game-changer that’s bound to become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients is what makes this Cannoli Dip Recipe so effortlessly delicious. Every component plays a vital role: from the creamy cheeses that provide richness to the powdered sugar and vanilla that add sweetness and depth, while the mini chocolate chips deliver that irresistible chocolate crunch.
- Ricotta cheese (15 ounces, drained): The star ingredient that offers a light, fluffy texture—make sure to drain it well for the best consistency.
- Mascarpone cheese (8 ounces): Adds silkiness and subtle tang, or cream cheese if you want a slight twist but still creamy base.
- Powdered sugar (1 ¼ cups, sifted): Sweetens the dip flawlessly without any graininess.
- Vanilla extract (1 ½ teaspoons): Infuses warm, aromatic flavor that brightens the entire dish.
- Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (¾ cup, divided): Mix most into the dip for bit-sized chocolate bursts, reserving a bit for garnish.
- Pizzelle cookies: Classic Italian waffle cookies perfect for dipping.
- Graham crackers: Provide a sweet and slightly crunchy contrast.
- Chocolate chip cookies: Adds an extra chocolatey crunch to every bite.
- Broken waffle cones: Fun, crispy containers or dippers that add texture and whimsy.
- Strawberries: Fresh fruit to balance richness and bring a juicy pop of flavor.
- Broken cannoli shells: For the authentic crunch and to nod to classic cannoli presentation.
How to Make Cannoli Dip Recipe
Step 1: Drain the Ricotta
The first step to creating the perfect fluffy texture is making sure your ricotta cheese is thoroughly drained. You can do this by placing the ricotta on paper towels and pressing out the moisture or better yet, use a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or even a coffee filter. This step prevents your dip from being watery and helps achieve that luxurious, creamy consistency.
Step 2: Mix the Cheeses
Once the ricotta is drained, combine it with the mascarpone cheese in a medium bowl. Use a hand mixer set on medium-high and whip them together until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and irresistibly light. This creamy base is what gives the Cannoli Dip Recipe its signature melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Vanilla
Next, it’s time to sweeten things up. Add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract to your cheese mixture. Start mixing on a low speed to keep the powder from flying everywhere, then crank it up to medium-high until the dip is fully smooth and well blended. The vanilla gives it that comforting warmth that makes this dip feel like a special treat.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in all but two tablespoons of the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips. Save those remaining chips for the finishing touch on top. Folding them in carefully preserves the dip’s fluffy texture while sprinkling bursts of chocolate throughout every bite.
Step 5: Chill the Dip
Cover the bowl and let the dip chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the dip to firm up slightly, making it easier to scoop and more satisfying to eat. If you’re in a rush, you can serve it after 15 minutes, but a little patience really pays off.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top for a pretty and delicious finish. You can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar if you want to elevate the look and sweetness. Then, get ready to dig in with your choice of dippers—from crunchy cookies to fresh fruit—this is where the fun really begins!
How to Serve Cannoli Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A beautiful garnish turns this simple dip into a party centerpiece. Aside from those reserved mini chocolate chips, consider sprinkling chopped pistachios or a tiny drizzle of honey for an extra touch of elegance and texture. Fresh mint leaves also freshen and brighten the presentation wonderfully.
Side Dishes
While the Cannoli Dip Recipe shines as a dip, serving it alongside a few complementary treats can make your spread even more exciting. Classic pizzelle cookies and broken cannoli shells keep the Italian theme alive, while graham crackers offer a slightly different crunch. And don’t forget fresh strawberries for a juicy balance that cuts through the richness in the best way.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make all the difference. Consider serving the dip in a hollowed-out round loaf of bread for a rustic look, or in decorative bowls surrounded by various dippers arranged beautifully on a platter. For smaller gatherings, individual mini cups with a spoon and a few cookie sticks could be a charming and mess-free option. The key is to invite everyone to indulge with style and simplicity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extra dip? No worries! Store your Cannoli Dip Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen with a little time, but remember to give it a quick stir before serving again to bring back that perfect fluffy texture.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled, you can freeze the dip for up to one month. Transfer it into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Keep in mind frozen dip might be slightly less creamy, so a gentle whip with a mixer after thawing helps revive it.
Reheating
This dip is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended as it might affect texture. However, if you prefer it softer, just let it sit out at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving to regain that smooth, creamy feel.
FAQs
Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes! Cream cheese is a great substitute for mascarpone and will still give you a rich, creamy base. The flavor is slightly tangier, but many love the tang it adds to the Cannoli Dip Recipe.
How do I make sure the ricotta doesn’t make the dip watery?
Draining the ricotta thoroughly is key. Using cheesecloth or paper towels to press out excess moisture prevents the dip from becoming runny and helps maintain that perfect fluffy texture.
Can this dip be made dairy-free?
While traditional ingredients are dairy-based, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheeses and ricotta alternatives, such as almond or cashew-based cheeses. The texture may differ, but it can still be delicious!
What’s the best way to serve Cannoli Dip Recipe at a party?
Serve it chilled in a decorative bowl surrounded by an assortment of dippers like cookies, fresh fruit, and waffle cones. This encourages sharing and makes for a visually stunning dessert spread.
How long does the dip last once prepared?
Stored properly in the fridge, your Cannoli Dip Recipe will last for about three days. For the freshest taste and best texture, try to enjoy it within this timeframe.
Final Thoughts
This Cannoli Dip Recipe is a brilliant, foolproof way to bring the mouthwatering delight of Italian cannoli into any gathering, or just your cozy night in. With its creamy, sweet, and chocolate-studded goodness, it’s bound to become a crowd-pleaser and a staple in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, give it a whirl, and prepare for all the compliments that will come your way!
Print
Cannoli Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cannoli Dip recipe is a creamy, luscious dessert dip inspired by traditional Italian cannoli filling. Made with ricotta and mascarpone cheeses, sweetened with powdered sugar, and studded with mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, it’s a perfect crowd-pleaser served with a variety of dippers like cookies, broken waffle cones, or fresh fruit. Ready in just 10 minutes and chilled to perfection, this dip offers a delightful twist on classic cannoli flavors without the fuss of making individual pastries.
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese, drained
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese as a substitute)
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided (reserve 2 tablespoons for topping)
Dippers
- Pizzelle cookies
- Graham crackers
- Chocolate chip cookies
- Broken waffle cones
- Strawberries
- Broken cannoli shells
Instructions
- Drain the Ricotta: Ensure the ricotta cheese is thoroughly drained before using to avoid excess moisture in the dip. Lay the ricotta on paper towels and press gently or use a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese with the mascarpone cheese. Use a hand mixer on medium-high speed to beat the cheeses together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, usually taking several minutes.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Begin mixing on low speed to keep the sugar from flying out of the bowl, then increase to medium-high speed. Continue mixing until the dip is fully smooth and well incorporated.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in all but 2 tablespoons of the mini chocolate chips using a spatula, reserving the remaining chips for garnishing the top of the dip.
- Chill the Dip: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour to achieve the best texture and flavor. If short on time, the dip can be served after a minimum of 15 minutes chilling.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved mini chocolate chips evenly on top, and optionally dust with powdered sugar. Serve with an assortment of dippers like pizzelle cookies, graham crackers, chocolate chip cookies, broken waffle cones, fresh strawberries, or broken cannoli shells. Enjoy the indulgent, creamy treat!
Notes
- Draining the ricotta thoroughly is key to preventing a watery dip and achieving the creamy texture.
- For a slightly tangier taste, substitute mascarpone with cream cheese.
- Sifting the powdered sugar ensures a smooth dip without lumps.
- The dip can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; just give it a quick stir before serving.
- Try different dippers or fresh fruit to customize the dessert experience.
