The Best Cannoli Dip Recipe
Introduction
This creamy cannoli dip captures the classic flavors of traditional cannoli in a quick and easy dessert. Perfect for parties or a simple treat, it combines ricotta, cream cheese, and chocolate chips for a rich and satisfying dip.

Ingredients
- 8 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk preferably)
- 6 oz cream cheese (softened, or mascarpone)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 & 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup pistachios (chopped)
- Cannoli shells or waffle cones (for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the ricotta cheese and cream cheese together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- Step 3: Fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios if using.
- Step 4: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Step 5: Serve the cannoli dip in a bowl, garnished with additional mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios. Serve with cannoli shells or waffle cones for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother texture, strain the ricotta cheese before mixing.
- Try swapping pistachios with chopped almonds or walnuts for a different crunch.
- Use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a richer flavor.
- Add a splash of orange zest to brighten up the dip.
Storage
Store the cannoli dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a good stir and garnish again as desired. It’s best served chilled but can soften slightly at room temperature for 15 minutes for easier dipping.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip dairy-free?
You can try substituting ricotta and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like almond or cashew-based cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
What else can I use for dipping besides cannoli shells or waffle cones?
Fresh fruit slices, graham crackers, ladyfingers, or pretzel sticks are all great options for dipping into this sweet and creamy cannoli dip.
PrintThe Best Cannoli Dip Recipe
This creamy and indulgent Cannoli Dip captures the classic flavors of traditional cannoli in an easy-to-make, no-bake dessert dip. Combining ricotta and cream cheese with sweet vanilla and chocolate chips, this dip is perfect for parties or a sweet snack served with crispy cannoli shells or waffle cones.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups or 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert Dip
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 8 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk preferably)
- 6 oz cream cheese (softened, or mascarpone)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 & 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup pistachios (chopped)
Serving
- Cannoli shells or waffle cones (for serving)
Instructions
- Beat cheeses: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the ricotta cheese and softened cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add sweeteners: Incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the cheese mixture, continuing to beat until everything is well combined and fluffy.
- Fold in mix-ins: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios into the creamy base to evenly distribute them without deflating the mixture.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour. This resting time blends the flavors and firms up the dip for better texture.
- Serve: Transfer the cannoli dip to a serving bowl and garnish with additional mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios. Serve alongside crispy cannoli shells or waffle cones for dipping and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- For a richer dip, mascarpone cheese can be substituted for cream cheese.
- Refrigeration is essential for flavor melding and thickening.
- Can be made up to a day in advance and stored covered in the fridge.
- Try other mix-ins like chopped candied fruit or orange zest for variation.
Keywords: cannoli dip, ricotta dip, dessert dip, easy party dip, no bake dessert, cannoli dessert, creamy dip

