Craving that sweet, creamy goodness of a cannoli but can’t buy from a bakery due lack of time or a nut allergy? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This quick and easy cannoli dip is the perfect solution. It is easy to make, is even easier to devour and can be made at home. And, it’s so good, you might have to hide it from your family.
The Cheesy Side of a Cannoli
Ever wondered what gives a cannoli its irresistible creaminess? It’s all in the cheese. Cannoli are filled with a blend of two cheeses: ricotta and mascarpone. Ricotta is a creamy, tangy cheese that provides a perfect balance to the sweetness of the cannoli while mascarpone is an Italian cheese that is richer in flavor. It’s the “secret ingredient” that elevates a cannoli. While cream cheese can be used as a substitute to the mascarpone, it might not capture the same level of richness and flavor.
Ingredient Line-Up
Ricotta Cheese – provides the rich and creamy base of the dip with a tangy flavor.
Mascarpone – adds a rich creaminess to the dip; cream cheese can be substituted.
Sugar – both powdered and granulated sugar contribute to the sweetness of this recipe.
Vanilla – adds a warm flavor and enhances the sweetness.
Orange Liqueur – optional, but adds a nice citrus flavor to the dip.
Chocolate – chocolate chips add sweetness, flavor and crunch.
Tools Needed
Measuring Cups/Spoons – use dry measuring cups and measuring spoons to measure out ingredients.
Mesh Strainer – a mesh strainer is handy for draining the excess liquid found in ricotta.
Mixer – use either a hand-held mixer or stand mixer to mix ingredients to create a smooth texture.
Spatula – use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and to combine ingredients.
Zester – optional, but a zester is handy if adding orange zest to the dip.
A Perfect Dip for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in a late-night snack, this cannoli dip is the perfect treat. Elevate the flavor by adding one (or all) to your dip, then serve with crispy, flavorful pizzelle waffle cookies, broken cannoli shells, plain wafer cookies or graham cracker sticks for a truly irresistible combination.
- Orange Zest/Candied Orange Peel: Adds a bright and refreshing citrus addition that elevates the flavor.
- Spices: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg can add some warmth to the dip.
- Chocolate: Broken pieces of a chocolate bar or mini chocolate chips add a sweet bite of chocolate as well as some texture to the dip. Chocolate shavings elevate the look, too.
- Dried Fruit: Add in raisins or cranberries for a chewy texture and sweet-tart flavor.
Cannoli Dip for Any Crowd
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this homemade cannoli dip. This recipe is easily customizable to suit your needs. Halve it for a smaller gathering or leave as-is when hosting a large party. For another ricotta-based recipe, try these Ricotta Cookies.
Cannoli Dip
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ricotta cheese, drained
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (cream cheese can be substituted)
- 1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 tbsp Grand Marnier (or other orange liqueur; optional)
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips (reserve 1/4 cup for garnish)
- orange zest or orange peel, optional
Instructions
- Using a mesh strainer, strain your ricotta cheese to remove any excess liquid.
- Using a mixer with a paddle attachment, beat both the ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla and the Grand Marnier, if using, and mix until smooth.
- Fold in ½ cup of miniature chocolate chips and, if you’re using the orange peel or orange zest, add those as well.
- Once mixed, cover and refrigerate for about an hour.
- When ready to serve, place into a serving bowl. Garnish with pieces of chopped chocolate and orange peel, if desired.
Notes
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