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Cannoli Dip Recipe

4.9 from 137 reviews

This rich and creamy Cannoli Dip is a delightful twist on the classic Italian cannoli filling, perfect for parties or casual snacking. Made with ricotta and mascarpone cheeses, sweetened with powdered sugar, and flavored with vanilla, it’s studded with mini semi-sweet chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. Serve chilled with a variety of dippers like pizzelle cookies, graham crackers, or fresh strawberries for an irresistible treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheeses

  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese (drained)
  • 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (cream cheese can be substituted)

Sweeteners & Flavorings

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

Add-ins

  • ¾ cup mini semi sweet chocolate chips

Serving Suggestions

  • Pizzelle cookies
  • Graham crackers
  • Chocolate chip cookies
  • Broken waffle cones
  • Strawberries
  • Broken cannoli shells

Instructions

  1. Mix the cheeses: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese. Use a hand mixer on medium-high speed to mix for several minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Start mixing on low speed to prevent powdered sugar from flying everywhere, then increase speed until fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Incorporate chocolate chips and chill: Gently fold in all but two tablespoons of the mini semi sweet chocolate chips. Cover the dip and refrigerate it until ready to serve. For best flavor and texture, chill for at least 1 hour, though it can be served after 15 minutes if needed.
  4. Finish and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved two tablespoons of chocolate chips on top and optionally dust with additional powdered sugar for presentation. Serve chilled with your choice of dippers like pizzelle cookies, graham crackers, or fresh strawberries.

Notes

  • For a thicker dip, drain the ricotta cheese thoroughly using cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
  • Mascarpone cheese can be substituted with cream cheese for a slightly tangier flavor and firmer texture.
  • If you prefer a sweeter dip, adjust the powdered sugar to taste.
  • This dip can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and kept refrigerated.
  • Try different dippers such as pretzels, apple slices, or waffle cone pieces for variety.
  • For a nutty variation, sprinkle chopped pistachios on top before serving.

Keywords: Cannoli dip, ricotta dip, mascarpone dessert, no bake dessert, party dip, Italian dip, creamy dessert