Cannoli Dip
Cannoli Dip is a fun and delicious twist on the classic Italian dessert, capturing all the creamy, sweet flavors of cannoli filling without any of the fuss of rolling pastry…
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Cannoli Dip is a fun and delicious twist on the classic Italian dessert, capturing all the creamy, sweet flavors of cannoli filling without any of the fuss of rolling pastry shells. It’s made with rich ricotta cheese, sweet powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla, with little bits of chocolate chips mixed in for that perfect crunchy contrast. It’s smooth, fluffy, and ready to be enjoyed with your favorite dippers.
I love making this dip when I want a treat that feels special but doesn’t take forever to prepare. It’s one of those recipes that feels like dessert without the whole baking process, which is great for bringing to parties or having on hand when you want something sweet after dinner. I sometimes add a little cinnamon or orange zest to give it a fresh twist depending on my mood.
My favorite way to serve cannoli dip is with sturdy graham crackers or crispy waffle cookies—the kind you’d find with actual cannolis. It’s also great with fresh fruit like strawberries or apple slices. I always find that the dip brings people together, and it’s fun to watch everyone scoop up bites while chatting. It’s a simple, sweet treat that never fails to make people smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta cheese: Draining ricotta is important to avoid a watery dip. If you can’t find fresh ricotta, tried and true alternatives include cottage cheese (blended smooth) or cream cheese, though the texture will be a bit different.
Mascarpone cheese: This adds creaminess and mild sweetness. If unavailable, you can substitute with extra cream cheese for a tangier, thicker dip — just soften it well before mixing.
Powdered sugar: Powdered sugar sweetens without grit, giving a smooth texture. You can swap for honey or maple syrup, but add gradually and taste as it will change the flavor slightly.
Mini chocolate chips: These give little bursts of chocolate crunch. If preferred, you can use finely chopped chocolate or even add some chopped nuts for texture variety.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy and Thick Cannoli Dip?
The key is removing extra moisture and whipping the cheeses well for a smooth texture. Here’s how:
- Drain ricotta by straining it over a sieve or cheesecloth for 30 minutes or longer. This stops the dip from becoming watery.
- Use softened mascarpone so it blends easily without lumps. Let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before mixing.
- Mix thoroughly with a hand mixer or whisk until very smooth and fluffy. This step lightens the texture and helps the dip hold together.
- Fold in chocolate chips gently to keep the dip light and airy. Overmixing here can flatten the texture.
Storing the dip chilled for at least 30 minutes helps flavors meld and the dip firm up slightly, making it perfect for dipping with crunchy chips or fruit slices.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl – perfect size for combining all your ingredients smoothly.
- Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth – helps drain ricotta so the dip isn’t watery.
- Hand mixer or whisk – makes blending the cheeses easy and gets the dip fluffy.
- Spatula – great for folding in chocolate chips gently without losing air.
- Serving bowl – choose one that’s just right for presenting your dip attractively.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest for a fresh, warm twist that lifts the flavor.
- Mix in chopped toasted pistachios or almonds for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Swap mini chocolate chips for crushed candied fruit or dried cherries for a fruity touch.
- Add a splash of almond or amaretto extract for a subtle, classic cannoli note.
How to Make Cannoli Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, well drained
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips, plus extra for garnish
- Optional: pinch of ground cinnamon or orange zest for extra flavor
For Serving:
- Wonton wrappers or pita chips for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of active prep time, plus 30 minutes to drain the ricotta cheese and chill the dip if you like it firmer. It’s a quick and easy treat perfect for when you want something sweet without waiting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Drain the Ricotta:
Place ricotta cheese in a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined strainer and let it drain over a bowl for about 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess moisture so your dip is creamy and thick, not watery.
2. Mix the Cheeses:
In a medium bowl, combine the drained ricotta and softened mascarpone cheese. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add Sweetness and Flavor:
Stir in the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and the texture is fluffy. If you’re using cinnamon or orange zest, add it now.
4. Fold in Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, reserving a handful to sprinkle on top for garnish.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the cannoli dip to a serving bowl and scatter the reserved chocolate chips over the top. Serve with crispy wonton chips, pita chips, or waffle cookies for dipping. Keep the dip refrigerated until ready to serve.
Can I Use Cream Cheese Instead of Mascarpone?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese for mascarpone if needed. Soften it well before mixing to ensure a smooth texture. The dip will be a bit tangier but still delicious!
How Long Can I Store Cannoli Dip?
Store the dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving and keep it chilled until ready to enjoy.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip a few hours or even a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, which also helps the flavors meld beautifully.
What’s the Best Way to Drain Ricotta Cheese?
Place the ricotta in a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined strainer over a bowl and let it drain in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This removes excess moisture and keeps the dip creamy without being runny.
