Posted in🍽️ Daily Recipes

Creamy Cannoli Dip Recipe

 Cannoli are one of the most famous Italian desserts, known for their crisp pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cream. This recipe transforms that classic treat into a quick and irresistible dip that has all the flavor of cannoli without the fuss of making pastry shells. The dip is velvety smooth, lightly sweetened, and studded with mini chocolate chips, perfect for serving with cookies, waffle crisps, or fresh fruit. It’s a wonderful dessert for parties, holidays, or just when you’re craving cannoli but want an easier version.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Serving: 8

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, well-drained

  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese for a tangier flavor)

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped (optional for extra lightness)

  • 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional for topping)

Instructions

  1. Place ricotta in a cheesecloth-lined strainer and let it drain for at least 30 minutes if it looks watery—this keeps the dip creamy and not runny.

  2. In a mixing bowl, beat together ricotta and mascarpone until smooth.

  3. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, mixing until well combined.

  4. Fold in whipped cream (if using) for a lighter texture.

  5. Stir in most of the mini chocolate chips, saving a handful for garnish.

  6. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.

  7. Serve with graham crackers, waffle cone pieces, biscotti, or fresh fruit slices.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 260

  • Protein: 6 g

  • Fat: 18 g

  • Carbohydrates: 17 g

  • Sugar: 13 g

  • Sodium: 70 mg

Tips

  • For a smoother dip, blend the ricotta in a food processor before mixing.

  • You can swap mascarpone for cream cheese if you want more tang and structure.

  • Add orange zest for a citrusy twist often found in traditional cannoli filling.

  • Keep chilled until serving, but allow it to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before guests dig in—it brings out the flavors.

  • Leftovers keep for 2–3 days in the refrigerator, covered.

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