Cannoli Dip

This easy-to-make Cannoli Dip is a sweet and decadent treat that has everything you love about authentic cannoli, minus the shell. Rich and creamy and studded with mini chocolate chips, this dip is fabulous for any occasion.

 

Easy Cannoli Dip Recipe

If you’ve ever had traditional cannoli, then it goes without saying why they are such a popular Italian treat. But let’s face it, that sweet and decadent filling is the best part. Sure, the crunchy shell is great, but that smooth and creamy filling is what makes them extra special.

This super easy and delicious dip recipe tastes just like that yummy filling you get in classic cannoli, but in dessert dip form. Made with just a handful of ingredients, it’s a breeze to whip up. This makes it perfect for a last-minute dessert, movie night snack, or sweet tooth craving.

If you love sweet dips, you should also check out this S’mores Dip and this Cocoa Dip.

Why We Love This Recipe

• Easy dip – This easy recipe takes just 5 minutes to put together using 5 simple ingredients.
• Delicious flavor – This homemade cannoli dip recipe tastes just like the creamy filling you get in authentic cannoli.
• Perfect for parties – Whether it’s a birthday, Super Bowl, or holiday party, this creamy dip is the perfect sweet treat when feeding a crowd.

Recommended Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Spoon
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Hand mixer (or stand mixer)

Cannoli Dip Ingredients

• Powdered sugar – sweetens the cream cheese and ricotta mixture.
• Cream cheese – acts as the base for the dip and balances out the sweetness.
• Whole milk ricotta cheese – this is a classic cannoli ingredient that is used to make the filling. 
• Vanilla extract – gives the dip extra flavor. 
• Mini chocolate chips – we used semi-sweet chocolate chips, but you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate.

The full recipe with exact measurements is listed in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Cannoli Dip

Step One: Combine Sugar and Cheeses

• Place the confectioner’s sugar, cream cheese, creamy ricotta cheese, and vanilla extract into a large bowl. With a hand mixer, mix for 1-2 minutes or until fully combined. 

Step Two: Mix in the Chocolate Chips

• Add the miniature chocolate chips to the dip. Reserve 1-2 tablespoons to sprinkle on top. Mix until combined.

Step Three: Chill, Garnish and Serve

• Place in the fridge for about 30 minutes to an hour to chill.
• Transfer to a serving dish.
• Sprinkle your fluffy cannoli dip with 1-2 tablespoons of chocolate chips Serve and enjoy.

Suggestions and Alternatives

• Citrus zest – Add a pop of freshness with a little bit of grated orange zest or lemon zest mixed right into the cannoli filling.
• Nuts – If you prefer a crunchy texture, mix in chopped pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts.
• Flavored extracts – Swap the vanilla with almond extract or orange extract. Orange for a unique flavor profile.
• Cinnamon or nutmeg – For warm spice flavors, add a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Amaretto or brandy – For an adult twist to the cannoli cream dip, add a splash of amaretto or brandy for a subtle boozy kick.
• Fun toppings – Top the dip with crushed biscotti, Graham crackers, or delicious waffle cone pieces.

Tips for the Best Cannoli Dip Recipe

• Remove excess water – If the top of the ricotta has a lot of liquid at the tip, you’ll want to remove it. I take a couple of layers of paper towels and dab off the excess liquid. You can also strain it through a coffee filter.
• Thicker dip – For a thicker and creamier dip, choose full-fat ricotta made with whole milk.
• Creamiest texture – For best results, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
• Make ahead – If you’re planning to make this dip in advance, let it sit out at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes ahead of time. This allows it to soften up enough to make it perfectly dippable.

How Do I Store the Leftovers?

You can keep the cannoli dip in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 5 days. 

Can I Use Mascarpone Cheese?

Sure. You can combine mascarpone cheese with the cream cheese or even instead of the cream cheese if you prefer.

What Do You Eat with Cannoli Dip?

This cannoli dip goes perfectly with all your favorite dippers. Consider serving it with Pizzelle cookies, fresh fruit, pieces of waffle cones, graham crackers, chocolate chip cookies, broken sugar cones, strawberries, broken cannoli shells, or vanilla wafers.

More Easy No Bake Desserts

• Peanut Butter Bars
• Cherry Cheesecake
• Peanut Butter Pie
• Banana Split Cake
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Dessert
• Twix Dessert Dip
• Brownie Batter Dip
• Red Velvet Dessert Dip
• Peanut Butter S’mores Dip