Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings smiles to faces and warmth to gatherings, look no further than this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie! This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian treat, blending creamy goodness with the irresistible charm of chocolate chips. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special or for family gatherings where everyone can share in the joy.

What I love about this pie is how easy it is to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly approachable. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just treating yourself after a long day, this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes of prep time, you can get this delicious pie ready to chill!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chocolate! This pie appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and let it chill for a few hours or overnight—perfect for entertaining!
• Decadent Flavor: The rich mascarpone and creamy ricotta blend beautifully with the mini chocolate chips for a delightful taste experience.
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this masterpiece! You’ll find everything you need right in your local grocery store, making it effortless to bring this delicious Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie to life.

For the Crust

• 2¼ cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 60 vanilla wafers; feel free to use graham cracker crumbs if preferred)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese (1 8-oz. container)
• ½ cup confectioner’s sugar
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• 2-3 tsp lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1⅓ cups mini chocolate chips (divided)

Variations

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add Some Fruit: Incorporate fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
• Change Up the Chips: Try using white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for different flavor profiles.
• Mix in Nuts: Add chopped pistachios or almonds for an extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for added warmth.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

First things first, let’s make that crust! In a mixing bowl, combine your vanilla wafer crumbs and brown sugar. Pour in the melted unsalted butter and mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed. Press this crumbly goodness firmly into the bottom of a pie dish. This base will give your pie that lovely crunch!

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for about 10 minutes. Baking helps set the base and enhances its flavor. Once golden and fragrant, take it out and let it cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another large bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, lemon zest, and ricotta cheese. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is important because it creates that luscious filling we all love!

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In yet another bowl, whip your heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold half of this whipped cream into your cheese mixture until fully blended. Then fold in half of your mini chocolate chips as well! This adds an airy texture that makes every bite dreamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Spoon the creamy filling into your cooled crust, smoothing it out evenly. Top with remaining whipped cream and sprinkle over those last bits of mini chocolate chips for added flair!

Step 6: Chill

Cover your pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours—or overnight if you can wait! Chilling allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Now that you’ve made this wonderful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, get ready for compliments from family and friends alike! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Creating the perfect Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks! Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mascarpone and ricotta will enhance the flavor of your filling, giving it a rich and creamy texture that makes this dessert irresistible.
• Let it chill: After assembling, let your pie chill in the refrigerator for several hours (or overnight). This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures the filling sets properly.
• Be generous with chocolate chips: Use more mini chocolate chips than the recipe calls for if you love chocolate! They add delightful bursts of sweetness that complement the creamy filling perfectly.
• Experiment with flavored extracts: While vanilla extract is classic, consider adding almond or orange extract for a unique twist to your cannoli pie. Just a drop can elevate the flavor profile!
• Customize your crust: Feel free to swap out vanilla wafer crumbs for graham cracker crumbs or even crushed nuts for a different texture. Each option brings its own special touch to this delightful dessert.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Presenting your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie in an appealing way can make it even more delightful! Here are some ideas to impress your guests and elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy touch that balances the richness of the filling.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzling some melted chocolate over each slice not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
• Fresh berries: Adding a few fresh strawberries or raspberries on the side brings a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the pie.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cannoli pie, making it a lovely palate cleanser.
• Coffee or espresso: Serving this dessert with a cup of strong coffee or espresso creates a perfect balance, as the bitterness pairs wonderfully with the sweet pie.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside each slice takes indulgence to another level and adds a delightful cold element to contrast with the warm flavors.
• Chocolate-covered almonds: These crunchy treats offer an enjoyable texture alongside your pie, enhancing its chocolatey taste while providing a satisfying crunch.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy sharing this delectable dessert with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store it and keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
• If you notice the crust getting soggy, consider storing the filling separately.

Freezing

• You can freeze this pie before adding any toppings, such as whipped cream.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For best results, serve chilled rather than reheating, as this dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie:

Can I use different types of cheese for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?

Absolutely! While mascarpone and ricotta give this pie its classic taste, you can experiment with cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative if preferred. Just ensure it has a smooth consistency.

How long does Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this delightful treat can last 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy it while it’s fresh!

Can I make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie without chocolate chips?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of chocolate, feel free to leave out the chocolate chips or substitute them with dried fruits or nuts for a different flavor profile.

What makes Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie special?

This dessert combines the creamy richness of traditional cannoli filling with a fun twist. The creamy texture and sweet flavor make it a perfect treat for any occasion!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie as much as I do! It brings together all the comforting flavors of classic cannolis into a simple-to-make dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just because, I’m sure it will become a favorite at your table. Happy baking!