Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the creamy goodness of cannoli with the indulgence of pie, then this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is just what you need! This delightful treat has been a staple in my home for years, and every time I serve it, my friends and family can’t help but ask for the recipe. The delicious filling is rich yet light, making it perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings.

What makes this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie even more special is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t have to be a master baker to whip up this delicious dessert, and trust me, the smiles it brings are worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress your guests.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, creamy filling and chocolate chips.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for prepping in advance—just chill it before serving!
• Versatile flavor: The combination of mascarpone and ricotta cheeses creates a deliciously unique taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Showstopper presentation: This pie looks as good as it tastes, making it an ideal centerpiece for any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is half the fun! You’ll find that these simple, wholesome ingredients are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:

For the Crust

• 2¼ cups vanilla wafer crumbs (~60 vanilla wafers, can use graham cracker crumbs instead)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese (i.e. 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

For Topping

• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1⅓ cups mini chocolate chips (divided)

Variations

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Add some fruit: Mix in fresh berries or banana slices to bring a fruity twist to your pie.
• Swap the crust: Try using crushed graham crackers or even almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• Flavored filling: Experiment by adding different extracts like almond or orange for a unique taste.
• Chocolate lovers’ upgrade: Fold in more chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Step 1: Make the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs and brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a pie dish. Baking it for about 10 minutes helps create a crunchy base that holds up beautifully against the creamy filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In another mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest. Beat them together until smooth and creamy. Add in the ricotta cheese and mix until fully incorporated. This step is crucial because combining these cheeses creates that classic cannoli flavor we know and love!

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into your cheese mixture. This adds airiness to your filling so it feels light on your palate while still being rich—just like traditional cannoli!

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Spread half of your filling into the baked crust. Sprinkle about one-third of your mini chocolate chips over this layer before adding more filling on top. Finish with another sprinkle of chocolate chips for good measure! Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours—or overnight if you can resist!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

When you’re ready to serve your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, slice it into generous pieces and watch as everyone digs in! The creamy filling paired with that crunchy crust is simply irresistible.

I hope you enjoy making (and devouring) this delightful dessert as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Making this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is a delightful experience, and with a few insider tips, you can elevate your dessert game even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mascarpone and ricotta cheese will enhance the flavor and creaminess of the filling. Always check the expiration dates to ensure the best taste.
• Chill Well: After assembling the pie, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and ensures a firmer texture when slicing.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling before adding all the confectioner’s sugar. Depending on your preference, you can adjust the sweetness to make it just right for your palate.
• Experiment with Zest: While lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness, feel free to experiment with orange or lime zest for a different twist that complements the chocolate nicely.
• Layer the Chocolate Chips: For an extra burst of chocolate flavor, reserve some mini chocolate chips to sprinkle on top of the pie just before serving. This adds visual appeal and a delightful crunch.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Serving this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie can be as creative as you want! From simple plates to festive gatherings, here are some ideas to present this delectable dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light touch that pairs perfectly with the rich filling.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted dark chocolate over each slice creates an elegant finish that enhances both presentation and flavor.
• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also introduce a refreshing element that balances the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cannoli pie, making each bite feel lighter and more vibrant.
• Espresso or Coffee: Serving slices of this pie alongside a hot cup of espresso or coffee offers a delightful way to balance sweetness while enhancing flavors through complementary notes.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings an extra layer of creaminess and pairs wonderfully with the chocolate chips in the pie.
• Pistachio Cookies: These nutty cookies provide a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling of the pie, creating an enjoyable textural variety.

Enjoy your delicious creation, and watch as everyone falls in love with this charming twist on traditional cannoli!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here are some tips for storing and enjoying your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you want to prevent the crust from getting soggy, store the filling separately from the crust until ready to serve.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, let each slice come to room temperature before serving.
• If you’d like it slightly warmed, you can microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dessert!

How do I make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie without mascarpone?

You can substitute mascarpone cheese with an equal amount of cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream. This will give you a creamy texture similar to mascarpone.

Can I use dark chocolate chips in my Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips will add a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling. Feel free to use semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips based on your preference.

What should I serve with my Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?

This pie is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie becomes a favorite in your home just as it has in mine! Its creamy filling and delightful flavors make it a special treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones – it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!