If you’re craving the creamy, indulgent flavors of cannoli but don’t want to bother with frying dough, then this cannoli dip is your new best friend. It’s like all the goodness of a cannoli, but in dip form—yes, you read that right. Sweet, creamy ricotta and mascarpone cheese blend together with chocolate chips and a hint of citrus zest to create a dessert that’s easy to make, shareable, and downright addictive. Trust me, you’re going to want to double the recipe for this one.
Why You’ll Love Cannoli Dip
This recipe is about more than just the ingredients—it’s about bringing a little extra joy to your day. Whether you’re sharing it at a party, enjoying it as a treat on a quiet afternoon, or surprising guests with something unexpected, this dip is the perfect way to elevate any moment. Here’s why it’s a crowd-pleaser:
Versatile: Serve it at a family gathering, potluck, or girls’ night in—this dip fits every occasion. It’s the dessert that everyone loves and can’t stop talking about.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients like ricotta cheese and mascarpone, this dip is surprisingly affordable. You don’t have to spend a fortune to create a dessert that feels like a treat.
Quick and Easy: No cooking required—just mix it all together, and you’ve got a delicious, crowd-pleasing dip ready to go in minutes.
Customizable: You can adjust the flavor to your liking! Add extra chocolate chips, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a dash of espresso powder for a richer taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s the ultimate party dip. With just a few bites, you’ll see why everyone loves it.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this creamy and dreamy cannoli dip:
Ricotta Cheese: The base of this dip, giving it that smooth and slightly grainy texture.
Mascarpone Cheese: Adds richness and a smooth, velvety texture.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the dip perfectly—just the right amount to balance the creamy richness.
Vanilla Extract: For a deep, warm flavor that blends beautifully with the cheeses.
Mini Chocolate Chips: Adds that iconic chocolatey touch that makes cannoli so irresistible.
Orange Zest: Gives the dip a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens up the creaminess.
Cinnamon (Optional): A little sprinkle can elevate the flavor and add a warm depth to the dip.
Pistachios (Optional): For a crunchy texture and a hint of salty nuttiness, top the dip with crushed pistachios.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Add Flavor: Stir in the mini chocolate chips, orange zest, and cinnamon (if using). Mix until well combined.
Chill (Optional): While this dip is ready to eat immediately, letting it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes will allow the flavors to meld together even better.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve with your favorite dippers—think graham crackers, waffle cones, fruit, or even mini cannoli shells if you want to go all out. Enjoy every creamy, sweet bite!
How to Serve Cannoli Dip
This cannoli dip is perfect for dipping and sharing. Here are some fun ideas to pair it with:
Waffle Cones: Break them into pieces for a crunchy, sweet dipping option.
Fresh Fruit: Strawberries, apple slices, or pears provide a refreshing contrast to the rich dip.
Mini Cannoli Shells: Serve the dip in mini cannoli shells for the full cannoli experience.
Graham Crackers or Biscotti: Perfect for scooping up this creamy dip.
Cookies: Try pairing with biscotti or your favorite cookies for an extra treat.
Additional Tips
Use Full-Fat Cheese: For the richest, creamiest dip, be sure to use full-fat ricotta and mascarpone cheese.
Chill It: While you can serve it immediately, refrigerating the dip for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and gives the dip a firmer texture.
Customize the Toppings: Feel free to sprinkle extra chocolate chips, chopped pistachios, or even a drizzle of honey on top for added flavor.
Make it Ahead: This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, making it perfect for prepping before a party.
Gluten-Free Option: Serve with gluten-free cookies or fruit for a gluten-free alternative.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use just ricotta cheese without mascarpone?
A1: While mascarpone adds richness, you can use just ricotta for a lighter version of the dip. It will still be delicious!
Q2: Can I make this dip in advance?
A2: Yes! You can make this dip up to 2-3 days ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
Q3: Can I freeze cannoli dip?
A3: Cannoli dip doesn’t freeze well, as it may affect the texture of the cheese. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q5: Can I add more flavoring to the dip?
A5: Yes! You can add a pinch of cinnamon, a bit of espresso powder, or even a splash of almond extract to change up the flavor.
Q6: Can I make this dip dairy-free?
A6: Yes, you can use dairy-free ricotta and mascarpone alternatives. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture might differ slightly.
Q7: Can I make this dip without chocolate chips?
A7: Absolutely! You can omit the chocolate chips and still have a delicious, creamy dip, or try adding other mix-ins like dried fruit or crushed nuts.
Q8: Can I make this dip without the orange zest?
A8: Yes! If you don’t like the orange flavor, you can leave out the zest. It will still taste great without it.
Q9: Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?
A9: Powdered sugar gives the dip the right texture, but you can use regular sugar if you don’t mind a slightly grainier texture.
Q10: Can I serve this dip with a spoon instead of dippers?
A10: Of course! If you want to skip the dippers, just serve it in small bowls and eat it by the spoonful.
Final Thoughts
Cannoli dip is the ultimate dessert for those who love the creamy, rich flavors of cannoli but want an easy, no-bake version. Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy it on your own, this dip is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Simple, indulgent, and irresistible, it’s a treat that everyone will want to scoop up and ask for the recipe!
Print
Cannoli Dip
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This baked Italian meatloaf is packed with mozzarella, spinach, and prosciutto, bringing classic homemade comfort to the table. With a rich marinara sauce and a cheesy, flavorful center, this meatloaf is just like grandma used to make but even better!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork (or Italian sausage)
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 oz prosciutto
- 2 cups fresh spinach, packed
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- Line a 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
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Make the Meat Mixture
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef and pork.
- Add ½ cup marinara sauce, onion, ¼ cup parmesan, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Mix until well combined.
-
Assemble the Meatloaf
- Lay parchment paper or plastic wrap on your workspace.
- Flatten the meat into a rectangle, keeping it no wider than your loaf pan.
- Layer prosciutto, spinach, and half the mozzarella over the meat.
- Roll the meat into a log, placing it seam-side down in the loaf pan.
-
Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, top with remaining marinara and mozzarella, and bake for another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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Rest & Serve
- Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Sprinkle with remaining parmesan and parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Use mild or spicy Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- Serve with garlic bread or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 150mg