If you’ve never tried Cannoli Dip, let me just say: you’re about to meet your new favorite party dessert! Imagine all the dreamy, creamy flavors of classic Italian cannoli filling—sweet ricotta, rich mini chocolate chips, and that hint of vanilla—transformed into a luscious, ready-to-scoop dip for all your favorite dippers. It’s a cinch to whip up, totally no-bake, and almost dangerously snackable. Whether you’re hosting a holiday bash or just want a treat that feels special, this Cannoli Dip will absolutely steal the show.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this recipe is how it makes magic with simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Each one brings its own sparkle, creating that classic cannoli flavor and texture you crave—no pastry shells required!

Whole milk ricotta cheese (1 cup): This is the heart of the dip—make sure you drain it well for the creamiest, thickest texture.
Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Brings rich, tangy silkiness to help the dip hold together beautifully.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens everything to just the right level without any gritty texture!
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth of flavor—don’t skip this little splash.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Lends that subtle bakery aroma and flavor (I say go for it!).
Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Because every bite should deliver some chocolatey delight.
Waffle cone pieces or cannoli chips (for serving): The perfect crunchy scoops for all that creamy deliciousness.

How to Make Cannoli Dip

Step 1: Blend the Cheeses

Start by beating the ricotta and softened cream cheese together in a medium bowl. You’ll want to mix until everything is super smooth and lump-free—an electric hand mixer does wonders here, but a strong arm with a whisk will get the job done too! This dreamy base is what gives Cannoli Dip its unforgettable creaminess.

Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor

Once your cheeses are silky, add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and, if you’re into that gentle warmth, ground cinnamon. Mix again until all the sugar is fully incorporated and your dip is flecked with vanilla and cinnamon. The aroma alone is instantly comforting!

Step 3: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Now comes the fun part: gently fold in your mini chocolate chips. Don’t overmix—just a few folds so the chocolate is evenly distributed, keeping each bite irresistibly loaded with cocoa goodness.

Step 4: Chill

Transfer your gorgeous Cannoli Dip into a serving bowl. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this rest lets the flavors meld and the texture set up, making it even more scoopable and delicious when you serve it.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once chilled, bring your dip out, surround it with crunchy dippers, and watch it disappear! This is the ultimate reward for just a few minutes’ effort.

How to Serve Cannoli Dip

Garnishes

A quick sprinkle of extra mini chocolate chips over the top always looks charming, but you could also add a few chopped pistachios for a pop of color and crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving gives it that authentic cannoli-shop finish.

Side Dishes

Waffle cone pieces and cannoli chips are classics, but feel free to get playful: fresh strawberries, sliced apples, or biscotti make fantastic co-stars. For a party platter, surround your Cannoli Dip with a medley of dippers so everyone can find their favorite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving Cannoli Dip in mini dessert cups or tart shells for perfect individual servings. You can even swirl small amounts into crepes or layer it with cake pieces and berries for cannoli-inspired trifles. It’s a total conversation starter any way you present it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover Cannoli Dip (rare, but possible!), just transfer it to an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those sweet spoonfuls any time.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Cannoli Dip in a pinch. Scoop it into a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and give it a good stir before serving—just note, it may be a bit less creamy after freezing.

Reheating

Since Cannoli Dip is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, there’s no need for reheating. If it’s a little firm straight from the fridge, just let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes and it’ll be perfectly dippable again!

FAQs

Can I make Cannoli Dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making Cannoli Dip a few hours ahead lets those creamy flavors develop even more. Just keep it covered in the fridge until party time.

What’s the best way to drain ricotta for this recipe?

Line a fine-mesh sieve with a paper towel or cheesecloth, place it over a bowl, and let your ricotta drain in the fridge for an hour or two. This step prevents a runny dip and guarantees the best texture.

Is it possible to make Cannoli Dip without cream cheese?

Yes, you can, though cream cheese really helps with structure and richness. For a lighter version, use all ricotta, but expect a looser, slightly grainier dip.

What kind of chocolate chips work best?

Mini chocolate chips are perfect because they distribute evenly. If you only have regular ones, give them a rough chop before folding in so you get chocolate in every bite.

Can I make this dip dairy-free?

Try swapping in dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based ricotta alternative—just keep in mind, the flavor and texture will change slightly, but you’ll still get that deliciousness!

Final Thoughts

This Cannoli Dip is pure joy in a bowl—quick to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to wow everyone at the table. If you’re looking for a treat that’s both nostalgic and new, give this recipe a try. I can’t wait for you to dip in and discover just how good it can be!

Cannoli Dip Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 12 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the flavors of a classic cannoli in dip form with this easy-to-make and delightful Cannoli Dip. Creamy ricotta and cream cheese blend with powdered sugar, vanilla, and chocolate chips for a sweet treat that’s perfect for dipping waffle cones or cannoli chips.

Ingredients

Scale

Ricotta Cream Mixture:

1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese, drained if needed
8 ounces 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
Waffle cone pieces or cannoli chips for serving

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Instructions

Prepare Ricotta Cream Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the ricotta and softened cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Add Sweetening and Flavoring: Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon if using, and mix until well combined.
Combine Additional Ingredients: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Chill and Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop. Serve with waffle cone pieces, cannoli chips, or fresh fruit.