Decadent & Easy Cannoli Dip: Your Go-To No-Bake Italian Dessert

Indulge in the irresistible taste of classic Italian cannoli without the fuss of frying shells! This luscious **Cannoli Dip** captures the essence of the beloved dessert, featuring a fluffy, sweetened blend of ricotta and mascarpone cheese, generously studded with mini chocolate chips and infused with fragrant vanilla. It’s the ultimate creamy, dreamy dessert dip that comes together in mere minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or a spontaneous sweet craving.

If you’re a fan of quick, no-bake sweet treats, you’ll also adore this vibrant cake batter dip, bursting with sprinkles, and this rich, chocolatey brownie batter dip. They’re fantastic additions to any party spread or a cozy night in.

This cannoli dip has quickly become our go-to dessert for any gathering. It delivers all the delightful tastes and textures of a traditional Italian cannoli filling, but in a convenient, scoopable format. Imagine the rich, smooth combination of whipped mascarpone and ricotta cheese, perfectly sweetened and dotted with delicate mini chocolate chips. The flavors are balanced—creamy, subtly tangy, and just sweet enough—making it an incredibly versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with everything from crisp chocolate chip cookies to fresh fruit slices. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic conversation starter!

What Makes This the Best Cannoli Dip Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this easy cannoli dip, but here are the highlights that make it truly stand out:

• Effortlessly Quick Preparation: Forget complicated baking or extensive prep time. This luxurious cannoli dip comes together in a mere 15 minutes, meaning you can whip it up right before guests arrive or whenever a sweet craving strikes. It’s truly a dessert marvel for busy schedules.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: We believe in keeping things simple without sacrificing taste. This recipe calls for just a handful of readily available ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating an extra rich, silky-smooth, and intensely flavorful dip that rivals any bakery cannoli. Quality ingredients are key to this dip’s success!
• Authentic Italian Cannoli Flavor Profile: If the creamy, sweet filling is your favorite part of a classic cannoli, then this dip will become your new obsession. By combining traditional ricotta with the added richness of mascarpone cheese, we achieve that authentic sweet, tangy, and incredibly creamy texture. A hint of vanilla and a generous scattering of chocolate chips complete the experience, making every spoonful taste like a trip to Italy.

Essential Cannoli Dip Ingredients

While traditional cannoli fillings often rely solely on ricotta cheese and powdered sugar, our recipe elevates the experience by incorporating mascarpone for an extra layer of richness. This blend creates a truly unforgettable texture and flavor. Here are some detailed notes on the key ingredients you’ll need. For a comprehensive, printable list with exact measurements, please refer to the recipe card below.

• Ricotta Cheese: This soft, Italian whey cheese is the heart of any cannoli filling. Its mild flavor and slightly grainy texture, when properly prepared, contribute to the dip’s authentic character. Most ricotta is packaged in liquid (whey), which absolutely must be drained to prevent a watery dip. We’ll walk you through the simple draining process later in this post.
• Mascarpone Cheese: A luxurious Italian cream cheese, mascarpone is known for its exceptionally smooth, velvety texture and rich, buttery flavor. It adds an unparalleled decadence and creaminess to the dip that sets it apart. While it’s distinct from American cream cheese, a substitute can be made if mascarpone isn’t available, as detailed below.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioner’s sugar, this finely milled sugar is essential for achieving a perfectly smooth dip without any gritty texture. Its fine consistency dissolves easily, blending seamlessly into the cheeses. If you only have granulated sugar on hand, a quick blitz in a food processor can transform it into a suitable powdered form.
• Vanilla Extract: High-quality vanilla extract is paramount here. It enhances the natural sweetness and rounds out the cheesy flavors beautifully. We highly recommend using pure vanilla extract over artificial versions for the best, most authentic taste. For an added layer of warmth and complexity, a pinch of ground cinnamon can also be a wonderful addition.
• Chocolate Chips: Mini chocolate chips are ideal for this dip, as their small size integrates perfectly into the creamy texture and ensures a bit of chocolate in every bite. However, regular chocolate chips, shaved chocolate, or even finely chopped dark chocolate can also be used for a slightly different textural experience.

Can I Use Cream Cheese Instead of Mascarpone?

Absolutely! If mascarpone cheese is difficult to find or you simply prefer to use what you have, cream cheese can be a good substitute. However, to mimic mascarpone’s lighter, airier texture, we recommend incorporating about ¼ cup of heavy whipping cream for every 8 ounces of cream cheese. This will help lighten the density of the cream cheese, bringing it closer to the desired consistency for your cannoli dip.

How to Properly Drain Ricotta Cheese

Draining your ricotta cheese is a critical step that ensures your cannoli dip achieves the perfect thick, creamy consistency and avoids becoming watery. This simple process removes excess moisture, concentrating the cheese’s flavor and improving the overall texture of your dip. While an overnight drain is ideal for optimal results, there are quicker methods if you’re short on time. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Prepare Your Setup: Begin by placing a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl. The bowl will collect the liquid as it drains. Line the sieve with a layer of cheesecloth, or if you don’t have cheesecloth, a damp paper towel can serve as an excellent substitute. Make sure the lining covers the entire surface of the sieve to prevent any ricotta from slipping through.
2. Add and Cover the Ricotta: Carefully spoon the ricotta cheese into the lined sieve, spreading it into an even layer. This maximizes the surface area for drainage. Once the ricotta is in place, cover the sieve and bowl assembly with plastic wrap to prevent the cheese from drying out or absorbing any refrigerator odors.
3. Chill for Optimal Draining: Place the entire setup into the refrigerator and allow the ricotta to drain for at least 8 hours, or ideally, overnight. This slow, steady draining process yields the best results, creating a very thick, firm ricotta cheese that’s perfect for your dip.
4. Quick Drain Method (If You’re in a Rush): If you don’t have the luxury of overnight draining, you can use a shortcut. After placing the ricotta in the lined sieve, gently press down on the cheese with a spoon or spatula. You can also stir and press the mixture to extract as much liquid as possible. While this method won’t be as effective as an overnight drain, it will still significantly thicken your ricotta, making for a richer dip. Remember, the more liquid you remove, the thicker and more luscious your cannoli dip will be!

Step-by-Step: How to Make Cannoli Dip

Creating this delightful cannoli dip is incredibly straightforward, making it one of the easiest no-bake desserts you can master. The entire process takes approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to quickly prepare a show-stopping dessert for any occasion. Don’t forget to check the recipe card below for precise measurements and detailed printable instructions.

• Combine the Cheeses and Sweeteners: In a large mixing bowl, combine your well-drained ricotta cheese and the mascarpone cheese. Using an electric mixer on medium speed (or a sturdy whisk), beat the cheeses together until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps. This ensures a wonderfully silky base for your dip. Next, gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, and the dip is light, airy, and beautifully fluffy. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
• Fold in the Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as you want to maintain the dip’s light texture. Reserve a small handful of chocolate chips to sprinkle over the top of the dip just before serving for an appealing garnish.
• Chill and Serve: Once the chocolate chips are folded in, transfer the cannoli dip to your serving bowl. Cover it and refrigerate until you are ready to serve. While the dip can be enjoyed immediately, a short chill of about 30 minutes can help the flavors meld and the dip firm up slightly, enhancing its overall texture.

What to Serve With Your Cannoli Dip

The beauty of cannoli dip lies in its versatility. It’s a fantastic centerpiece for a dessert platter, offering endless possibilities for dipping. Simply place your bowl of creamy cannoli dip in the center of a large serving platter and surround it with a colorful assortment of dippers. Here are some of our favorite accompaniments:

• Classic Italian Cookies: Crispy pizzelle cookies or traditional biscotti are perfect for an authentic Italian pairing. Vanilla wafers also offer a delightful crunch and classic flavor.
• Sweet Baked Goods: Try serving with buttery chocolate chip shortbread, classic Oreos, or even broken waffle cones. Many bakeries now sell “cannoli chips,” which are essentially broken cannoli shells, offering the most authentic dipping experience!
• Fresh Fruit: For a lighter, refreshing contrast, offer fresh strawberries, sliced apples, pear slices, or even juicy grapes. The natural sweetness and slight tartness of the fruit complement the rich dip beautifully.
• Graham Crackers: Simple yet satisfying, graham crackers provide a sturdy and subtly sweet vehicle for scooping up generous amounts of dip.

Cannoli dip isn’t just for dessert; it’s a fantastic addition to any festive occasion. Imagine it on game day alongside savory bites like a hearty crock pot of chili or delicious pulled pork sliders, perfectly complemented by other tasty snacks such as hot crab dip and fun football cookies. It’s also an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, especially when you need a no-oven-required dessert. Pair it with your favorite Thanksgiving appetizers, from savory sausage cups to creamy spinach artichoke dip, for a balanced spread that caters to all tastes.

Variations and Tips for the Best Cannoli Dip

While this classic cannoli dip recipe is perfection on its own, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to suit your taste or the occasion. Here are a few ideas to customize your dip:

• Citrus Zest: For a brighter flavor, fold in a teaspoon of finely grated orange or lemon zest along with the vanilla. This adds a lovely fragrant note that is often found in traditional Italian pastries.
• Nutty Crunch: A sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or toasted almonds adds a delightful crunch and a sophisticated flavor to the dip.
• Spiced Up: Beyond cinnamon, consider a tiny pinch of nutmeg or a dash of almond extract for a different aromatic profile.
• Different Chocolates: Instead of mini chocolate chips, try white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or even a mix of milk and dark chocolate for varied sweetness.
• Candied Fruit: For a more traditional Sicilian touch, fold in a small amount of finely diced candied orange peel or mixed candied fruit.
• Ensure Cold Ingredients: Start with cold ricotta and mascarpone for the best texture and easier whipping.
• Don’t Overmix: Once the chocolate chips are added, fold them in gently. Overmixing can deflate the dip and affect its airy texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dip before adding all the powdered sugar. You might prefer it a little less sweet, depending on your dippers.

Storing Leftover Cannoli Dip

This cannoli dip is so delightfully easy to make and best enjoyed fresh for its optimal texture. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for one to two days. It’s important to note that due to the natural liquid content in the cheese, the dip may start to separate slightly over time. Therefore, we don’t recommend preparing the dip too far in advance or attempting to freeze it, as the texture will significantly change upon thawing. If separation occurs, simply give it a good stir before serving to reincorporate the ingredients and restore its creamy consistency.

More Irresistible No-Bake Desserts

If you’re anything like us, the convenience and deliciousness of no-bake desserts are simply unbeatable. They’re perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth without heating up the kitchen or spending hours on elaborate preparations. Here are some more of our favorite recipes for quick, easy, and incredibly tasty no-bake treats that are sure to become staples in your kitchen:

• Peanut Butter Butterfinger Dip: A crunchy, sweet, and utterly addictive dip featuring everyone’s favorite candy bar.
• No Bake Oreo Cheesecake: Creamy, rich cheesecake base packed with crushed Oreos, all without turning on the oven.
• Hot Chocolate Dip: A warm, comforting dip that tastes just like a cup of gourmet hot chocolate, perfect for colder evenings.
• No Bake Avalanche Cookies: Quick and chewy clusters of peanut butter, marshmallows, and chocolate.
• No Bake Peanut Butter Pie: A dreamy, decadent pie with a rich peanut butter filling and a crushed cookie crust.

These recipes prove that you don’t need an oven to create truly spectacular desserts. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations, and are guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.

Cannoli Dip

By
Erin Sellin

Cannoli dip is a creamy dessert dip made from fluffy ricotta and mascarpone filling and chocolate chips. It’s the best part of the cannoli, ready in 15 minutes!

Prep:

15 mins

Total:

15 mins

Servings:

10
servings

Pin Recipe
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe

Ingredients

• 13 oz ricotta cheese
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese
• 1 ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Line a fine mesh strainer with cheesecloth or a damp paper towel. Add the ricotta cheese and spread it into an even layer. Ideally, let it sit for 8 hours or overnight in the refrigerator over a bowl to thoroughly drain the liquid. As a shortcut, you can press down and stir the mixture to extract as much liquid as possible, which will result in a thicker dip.
2. To make the dip, combine the drained ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese in a mixing bowl. Beat until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Then, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until all ingredients are well combined and the dip is light and fluffy.
3. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. Remember to reserve a few chocolate chips to sprinkle on top of the dip just before serving for a beautiful garnish. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

• Serve with a variety of dippers such as graham crackers, Pizzelle cookies, waffle cones, or fresh fruit. You might also find “Cannoli Chips” in the bakery section of your local supermarket for an authentic touch.
• For best results, ensure your ricotta is thoroughly drained to achieve the thickest, creamiest dip.

Nutrition

Calories: 305kcal |
Carbohydrates: 29g |
Protein: 6g |
Fat: 18g |
Saturated Fat: 11g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 1g |
Trans Fat: 0.03g |
Cholesterol: 44mg |
Sodium: 53mg |
Potassium: 40mg |
Fiber: 0.4g |
Sugar: 26g |
Vitamin A: 512IU |
Vitamin C: 0.1mg |
Calcium: 124mg |
Iron: 0.3mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:
Erin Sellin

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Total Time:
15 minutes

Course:
No Bake Desserts

Cuisine:
American

Servings:
10 servings

Calories:
305

Keyword:
cannoli dip

Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!

I created a fun group on Facebook, and I would love for you to join us! It’s a place where you can share YOUR favorite recipes, ask questions, and see what’s new at Dinners, Dishes and Desserts (so that you never miss a new recipe)!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tag #dinnersdishes so I can see all the wonderful DINNERS, DISHES, AND DESSERTS recipes YOU make!

Be sure to follow me on my social media, so you never miss a post!

Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

.