If you’ve ever wished you could dive right into the best part of a cannoli—the creamy, chocolate-flecked filling—then this Cannoli Dip Recipe is about to become your new dessert obsession. It’s light, sweet, and delicately spiced, with that irresistible creaminess you crave, all scooped up on crispy cookies or fruit. Whether you’re nibbling with friends or treating yourself after dinner, this crowd-pleaser packs all the Italian pastry magic into one fuss-free, no-bake dip.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Cannoli Dip Recipe so special is how a handful of simple ingredients can create layers of flavor and texture. Each one is carefully chosen to mimic the essence of a classic cannoli while making prep a breeze at home.

Whole milk ricotta cheese (1 cup, well drained): Ricotta gives the dip its signature creamy, fluffy texture—be sure to drain it well for a thick, smooth dip.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Helps stabilize the dip and adds a rich tanginess that balances the sweetness.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens everything up and ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth, giving authentic bakery flavor.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Just a pinch brings a touch of cozy spice, totally optional but highly recommended!
Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Those classic little pops of chocolate in every bite—use mini chips so they don’t overpower the dip.
Crushed cannoli shells, waffle cone pieces, or graham crackers (for dipping): The perfect crunchy vehicle for scooping up all that creamy deliciousness.

How to Make Cannoli Dip Recipe

Step 1: Beat Cheese Mixture

Start by placing your well-drained ricotta and softened cream cheese into a medium mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is silky smooth and totally blended. This step is all about building a rich, fluffy base for your Cannoli Dip Recipe, making sure there are no lumps—just pure creaminess.

Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor

Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon (if you’re using it) to the bowl. Beat everything together until fully combined, scraping down the sides as needed. This lets all that sweetness and warmth infuse every spoonful, ensuring the flavors are well distributed.

Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Switch to a spatula and gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. This keeps them whole and evenly spread throughout the dip, so every scoop delivers that classic cannoli crunch and chocolatey surprise.

Step 4: Chill to Blend Flavors

Transfer the dip to your favorite serving bowl and cover. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This short chill time helps the flavors meld together and firms up the texture so it’s perfect for dipping.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

When ready, take out the dip and set it out with plenty of dippables—crushed cannoli shells, waffle cone chunks, graham crackers, or even fresh fruit. Watch as it disappears faster than you can say “dessert hour!”

How to Serve Cannoli Dip Recipe

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way with this Cannoli Dip Recipe. Try a sprinkle of extra mini chocolate chips or a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving for that inviting, bakery-fresh look. For a special touch, add some chopped pistachios or a swirl of Nutella to give it an eye-catching finish that tastes amazing.

Side Dishes

This dip truly shines surrounded by tasty dippers. Serve with crispy cannoli shell pieces, broken waffle cones, and classic graham crackers for a variety of textures. If you’re looking to add freshness, sliced strawberries or apple wedges make fantastic, lighter companions that complement the dip beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn dessert into a fun, interactive experience! Try setting up a “dipping bar” with colorful bowls of fruit, cookies, and other sweet treats. For parties, serve the Cannoli Dip Recipe in mini jars or shot glasses with a cookie tucked inside. Or, use it as a surprise filling for cupcakes or between layers of a cake for a true cannoli-inspired creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, simply transfer the dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop, so it’s just as delicious for a few days after making it. Give it a gentle stir before serving again in case any separation occurs.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t recommended, since the creamy texture of the cheeses can change and become grainy when thawed, you technically can freeze Cannoli Dip Recipe if needed. Place in a tightly sealed container, freeze up to a month, and thaw overnight in the fridge. Whisk or beat again before serving to smooth it out as much as possible.

Reheating

No reheating required—you want to serve this dessert cold and creamy, straight from the refrigerator! Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly if it seems extra firm from chilling. This makes for the ideal dipping consistency.

FAQs

Can I make Cannoli Dip Recipe with part-skim ricotta?

Absolutely! While whole milk ricotta creates the creamiest, richest dip, part-skim ricotta will still work and lighten things up a bit. Just be sure to drain it very well to avoid a watery dip.

What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?

You can use regular chocolate chips, just give them a rough chop so the chocolate distributes more evenly throughout the dip. Even chopped dark chocolate or milk chocolate bars work in a pinch.

Is the cinnamon necessary?

The cinnamon is optional, but it adds a lovely, subtle warmth that makes this Cannoli Dip Recipe taste even more authentic. Feel free to skip it or replace it with a pinch of nutmeg if you like.

Can I make it ahead of time for a party?

Yes! Make the dip a day in advance and store it in the fridge. It actually allows the flavors to intensify, and your prep work is done before guests arrive—just set out dippers and enjoy.

How can I make it nut-free?

Simply leave out any optional chopped pistachios or nut garnishes and double-check that your dippers don’t contain nuts. The core Cannoli Dip Recipe is perfectly nut-free as written!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend trying this Cannoli Dip Recipe enough—it’s one of those treats that makes everyone smile and always disappears in a flash. Whether you serve it as a playful finish to an Italian meal or just as an excuse to eat cannoli filling by the spoonful, you’ll be hooked after the very first bite. Gather your favorite dippers and dig in!

Cannoli Dip Recipe

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4.6 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of traditional cannoli in dip form with this easy and creamy Cannoli Dip recipe. Perfect for parties or a sweet snack!

Ingredients

Scale

Ricotta Cream Cheese Mixture:

1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (well drained)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)

Sweetening and Flavoring:

1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Additional:

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Crushed cannoli shells, waffle cone pieces, or graham crackers for dipping

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Instructions

Prepare Ricotta Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the ricotta and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Add Sweetening and Flavoring: Mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon if using until fully combined.
Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips using a spatula.
Chill and Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, and serve with desired dippers.