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Cannoli Dip Recipe

4.9 from 131 reviews

This creamy and indulgent Cannoli Dip captures the essence of traditional cannoli filling in a simple, no-bake dessert perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining smooth ricotta and mascarpone cheeses with vanilla and mini chocolate chips creates a luscious, easy-to-make dip served best with crispy cookies and fresh fruits.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese (drained)
  • 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (or substitute cream cheese)

Sweeteners & Flavorings

  • 1 ¼ cup powdered sugar (sifted)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Add-ins and Garnish

  • ¾ cup mini semi sweet chocolate chips
  • Pizzelle cookies, graham crackers, chocolate chip cookies, broken waffle cones, strawberries, broken cannoli shells, or other preferred dippers

Instructions

  1. Mix Cheeses: Combine the drained ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese in a medium mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, blend them on medium-high speed for several minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Sweeteners and Flavor: Slowly add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Begin mixing on low speed to prevent powdered sugar dust, then increase speed until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in all but two tablespoons of the mini semi sweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dip. Cover the bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve. For best flavor and texture, chill for at least 1 hour; however, it can be served after 15 minutes if necessary.
  4. Serve and Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top and optionally dust with a little powdered sugar for presentation. Serve with your choice of dippers such as pizzelle cookies, graham crackers, or fresh strawberries, and enjoy this delicious cannoli-inspired treat.

Notes

  • This dip can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
  • If mascarpone is unavailable, cream cheese is a suitable substitute but may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
  • Draining the ricotta cheese helps prevent the dip from becoming watery; place ricotta in a fine mesh sieve and let it drain for 30 minutes if needed.
  • For a nutty twist, try adding chopped pistachios on top or mixed into the dip.
  • Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: cannoli dip, ricotta cheese dessert, mascarpone dip, no-bake dessert, party dip, Italian dessert dip, chocolate chip dip