Description
This easy and delicious Cannoli Dip recipe captures the classic flavors of traditional cannoli in a creamy, sweet dip perfect for parties or casual snacking. Made with ricotta and mascarpone cheeses, powdered sugar, vanilla, and mini chocolate chips, it pairs beautifully with an assortment of dippers like cookies, waffle cones, and fresh fruit. Ready in just 10 minutes, this no-cook dessert dip is a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy texture with sweet crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese, drained
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese as a substitute)
Sweeteners & Flavorings
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 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 a watery dip. Lay the ricotta on paper towels and gently press to remove moisture, or use a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter to strain excess water.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese. Use a hand mixer at medium-high speed and blend for several minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a silky texture.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Beat slowly at first to prevent powdered sugar from flying, then increase to medium-high speed until the dip is smooth and fully combined.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Using a spatula, gently fold in all but two tablespoons of the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, reserving those last two tablespoons for garnish to add a decorative touch and extra crunch.
- Chill the Dip: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm up. If in a hurry, chilling for 15 minutes will still yield a tasty dip.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved mini chocolate chips evenly over the top and optionally dust with powdered sugar. Serve alongside an assortment of dippers such as pizzelle cookies, graham crackers, chocolate chip cookies, broken waffle cones, strawberries, or broken cannoli shells for a fun and festive presentation.
Notes
- Be sure to properly drain the ricotta to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
- Mascarpone cheese provides a richer texture, but cream cheese can be substituted if unavailable.
- For a lower sugar version, reduce the powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute compatible with baking.
- This dip can be made a day ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator.
- Try different dippers such as biscotti or fresh fruit slices to vary textures and flavors.
