The moment I tasted a cannoli for the first time, I was transported to a bustling Italian bakery, where every bite whispers sweet tales of tradition. That magic inspired me to create this No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, a delightful twist on a classic that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. With creamy filling made from mascarpone and ricotta, and a crunchy vanilla wafer crust, this easy dessert is an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness. Plus, it requires no baking! Are you ready to elevate your dessert game and impress your friends with this decadent treat? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why is this Cannoli Pie a Must-Try?
No-Bake Convenience: Say goodbye to the oven! This easy recipe allows you to create a stunning dessert without the hassle of baking, making it perfect for hot summer days.
Creamy Indulgence: The rich, smooth filling of mascarpone and ricotta adds a layer of decadence that pairs beautifully with the crunchy vanilla wafer crust, promising a delightful taste in every bite.
Customizable Flavors: Want to mix it up? This pie is versatile, allowing you to personalize it with toppings like nuts or candied fruit, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur for an extra twist.
Impressive Presentation: Whether it’s a picnic or a family gathering, this dessert makes a show-stopping centerpiece that will impress your guests, leaving them asking for seconds.
Quick to Assemble: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this time-saving dessert is perfect for busy schedules—ideal for those who crave something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen.
Try it alongside other favorites like Chocolate Chips Cookies or Lemon Meringue Pie for a memorable dessert spread!
Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• Vanilla Wafer Crumbs – Makes the perfect base structure for the crust; consider using graham cracker crumbs for a different flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the crust, enhancing its flavor profile.
• Unsalted Butter – Binds the crust together; remember to melt it for easy mixing.
For the Filling
• Mascarpone Cheese – Provides a creamy texture that’s essential for the decadent cannoli filling.
• Confectioner’s Sugar – Sweetens the filling; feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses the filling with deep, aromatic flavor for a perfect balance.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the warmth in the filling; a pinch goes a long way.
• Lemon Zest – Brightens the dessert with fresh citrus notes; zest from one lemon works wonders.
• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – Contributes to the creamy filling; an important ingredient for authentic flavor.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds lightness and volume; whip until stiff peaks for ideal consistency.
• Mini Chocolate Chips – Folded into the filling and used for topping, they add delightful texture and sweetness.
Topping Additions
• Extra Mini Chocolate Chips – For sprinkling on top, adding a tasty look and flavor contrast.
• Chopped Nuts – Like walnuts or pistachios for a nutty crunch; consider this for fun texture variations.
• Chopped Candied Fruit – Incorporate for a pop of sweetness and color in every slice.
Enjoy whipping up this delightful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, a no-bake marvel that will become a summer favorite in no time!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish. In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter until fully incorporated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pie dish to form a solid crust. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then let it cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to whip together mascarpone cheese and confectioner’s sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined. Then, gently fold in the ricotta cheese until the mixture is completely blended. This forms the rich filling for your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream and whip it until stiff peaks form—this should take about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer. Be careful not to over-whip, as you want to maintain a light and airy texture. Once whipped, fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture in two additions, ensuring it’s combined without losing airiness.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in two-thirds of the mini chocolate chips into the filling mixture, creating delicious pockets of chocolate throughout. This step not only enhances flavor but also adds delightful texture to your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie. Set aside the remaining chocolate chips for garnishing later.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Spread the luscious filling evenly into the cooled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for a beautiful finish. Sprinkle the reserved mini chocolate chips generously over the surface, adding a charming touch. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least four hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture and flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, carefully remove the pie from the refrigerator. Use a knife to slice through the creamy layers, serving chilled. Consider garnishing with whipped cream or fresh fruit for added color and flair. Your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is now ready to be enjoyed, offering a luscious end to any meal!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your mascarpone and ricotta cheeses are at room temperature for smoother mixing, enhancing the creamy filling’s texture.
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Gentle Folding: When incorporating whipped cream into the filling, fold gently to maintain its lightness. Overmixing can lead to a dense filling instead of the airy texture you want.
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Customize Wisely: Don’t hesitate to experiment with various mix-ins like nuts or flavored liqueurs. Just remember to keep in mind how they will affect the overall texture of your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie.
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Avoid Freezing: While leftovers can be kept in the fridge wrapped tightly for up to four days, avoid freezing this pie as it can change the texture of the filling.
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Chill Thoroughly: For the best flavor and consistency, allow the pie to set in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight before serving—it makes a world of difference!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie
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Fridge: Store the pie wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures the filling remains creamy and the crust stays fresh.
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Freezer: Avoid freezing the Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, as it can alter the texture of the creamy filling and make it grainy upon thawing.
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Leftover Storage: If you have leftover slices, cover them tightly and refrigerate. Enjoy chilled for the best flavor and consistency.
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Make-Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance for ideal results—just remember to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours before serving!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance; just bake it, let it cool, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. The filling can also be made ahead—mix it as instructed, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days in an airtight container to retain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the filling into the prepared crust, top with the chocolate chips, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best). This way, you can enjoy a spectacular dessert with minimal last-minute effort while keeping it just as delicious!
What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie
Indulging in a slice of this creamy masterpiece invites a harmonious meal where flavors and textures dance together beautifully.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a vibrant burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the pie.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the cannoli pie perfectly, creating a luscious and irresistible dessert combination.
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Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of espresso or coffee brings out the delightful flavors in the pie, making it an ideal pairing for an after-dinner treat.
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Chocolate Fondue: For chocolate lovers, a shared pot of warm chocolate fondue offers a fun and interactive way to enjoy the dessert experience even more.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing, healthy contrast to the creamy pie, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Moscato Wine: A glass of sweet Moscato pairs beautifully with the dessert, echoing the flavors in the cannoli while providing a bubbly finish.
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Whipped Cream: Extra dollops of freshly whipped cream on each slice elevate the dessert’s presentation, making it extra indulgent.
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Almond Biscotti: Crispy almond biscotti enhances the Italian theme and adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft filling of the pie.
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Hazelnut Coffee: A cup of rich hazelnut coffee offers a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate and creamy elements of the pie perfectly.
Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Variations
Feel free to explore these variations and add your unique twist to this luxurious dessert!
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Nuts: Replace mini chocolate chips with chopped walnuts or pistachios for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
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Candied Fruit: Stir in chopped candied fruit for added sweetness and vibrant pops of color that brighten each slice.
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Liqueur: Add up to 1 tablespoon of your favorite liqueur like amaretto or Grand Marnier to elevate the filling’s flavor with a touch of sophistication.
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Flavored Cream: Infuse the whipped cream with a hint of almond extract for an unexpected flavor boost that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
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Fruit Zest: Experiment with different citrus zests, such as orange or lime, to create a refreshing twist and balance the sweetness.
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Greek Yogurt: Swap some of the mascarpone with Greek yogurt to make a lighter filling while still enjoying that creamy texture.
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Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling for an added warm spice that will remind you of cozy days.
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Chilled Serving: For an even cooler treat, serve this pie frozen! Just a few more hours in the freezer will create a delightful frozen delight to enjoy on hot summer days.
Try pairing this pie with a side of Chipotle Corn Salsa to balance the sweetness, or serve it with some refreshing Swiss Chocolate Chalet for an elegant dessert spread.
Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of vanilla wafer crumbs should I use?
Absolutely! For this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, I recommend using standard vanilla wafer crumbs. They create a deliciously sweet and crunchy crust. If you’d like to mix things up, graham cracker crumbs are a fantastic alternative, offering a different flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
How long can I store the finished pie in the refrigerator?
You can store your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to keep it tightly covered to maintain that creamy texture and prevent the crust from becoming soggy. Enjoy a slice chilled for the best experience!
Can I freeze the Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?
I advise against freezing this pie, as the creamy filling may change texture and become grainy when thawed. Instead, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if you happen to have extra filling, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months—and use it later as a dip or spread!
What should I do if the filling seems too runny?
If your filling is runny, it might be due to overwhipping or not incorporating the whipped cream properly. To troubleshoot, try refrigerating the filling for about 30 minutes to help it firm up. If making adjustments, ensure your whipped cream is at stiff peaks before folding. This will help create the light, airy consistency you desire.
Are there any allergies I should be aware of when serving this pie?
Yes, keeping allergies in mind is crucial! This pie includes dairy ingredients like mascarpone and ricotta, which are common allergens. Additionally, always check the specific items like the whipped cream and chocolate chips, as they can contain allergens like nuts or gluten. If you’re serving someone with allergies, consider making a dairy-free or nut-free version by using appropriate substitutes like vegan cream cheese.
Can I make variations of the filling?
Very! The filling can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Consider adding chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts for a nice crunch, or mix in candied fruits for a sweet twist. For an adult version, a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as amaretto, can elevate the flavor profile, making it even more delightful. Enjoy experimenting!
Decadent Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie for Easy Summer Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish. Combine the vanilla wafer crumbs, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter until fully incorporated. Press firmly into the dish and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool completely.
- In a large bowl, whip mascarpone cheese and confectioner’s sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese.
- Whip the heavy whipping cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. Fold into the mascarpone mixture carefully.
- Gently fold in two-thirds of the mini chocolate chips into the filling mixture.
- Spread the filling evenly into the cooled pie crust, sprinkle remaining chocolate chips on top, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Carefully remove the pie from the refrigerator, slice, and serve chilled. Garnish as desired.
