Dessert

Cannoli Dip Recipe

Bylilan Sage March 11, 2026March 11, 2026

Introduction

Cannoli dip is a rich and creamy treat inspired by the classic Italian dessert. It’s quick to make and perfect for parties or casual snacking, offering all the flavors of a traditional cannoli in a simple dip form.

A white scalloped bowl filled with creamy, white cannoli dip that has small, dark chocolate chips scattered throughout and on top in a swirl pattern. Two tan waffle cookies are dipped into the bowl on the left side, with a red strawberry cut in half and placed on the left edge of the bowl. Around the bowl, there are bright red whole strawberries with green leaves, some dusted with powdered sugar. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

15 ounces ricotta cheese (drained)
8 ounces mascarpone cheese (cream cheese can be substituted)
1 ¼ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
¾ cup mini semi sweet chocolate chips
Pizzelle cookies, graham crackers, chocolate chip cookies, broken waffle cones, strawberries, broken cannoli shells, or other dippers

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese. Using a hand mixer, beat on medium-high speed for several minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed at first to avoid a powdered sugar cloud, then increase speed until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
Step 3: Gently fold in all but two tablespoons of the mini chocolate chips. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip until ready to serve. For best flavor, chill for at least 1 hour, though it can be served after 15 minutes if needed.
Step 4: Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top. Optionally, dust with a light layer of powdered sugar. Serve with your choice of cookies, cones, strawberries, or other dippers and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a tangier flavor, substitute mascarpone with cream cheese or reduce the mascarpone and add a spoonful of ricotta salata if available.
Drain the ricotta cheese thoroughly using cheesecloth or a fine sieve to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
Try adding finely chopped pistachios or candied orange peel for extra texture and traditional cannoli flair.
Use gluten-free cookies or fruit slices for dipping to accommodate dietary preferences.

Storage

Store the cannoli dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled but can be brought to room temperature for a few minutes if preferred. Do not freeze, as texture may change.