You know that moment when you bite into something so creamy, sweet, and dreamy that you have to pause mid-bite just to appreciate the bliss? That’s exactly what No-Bake Cannoli Delight delivers. It’s like a cannoli and a cheesecake had a delicious love child—and the best part? No oven required.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
This is one of those recipes that feels a little fancy but is secretly super easy to whip up. It’s perfect when you want to impress without breaking a sweat (or turning on your oven). Whether you’re treating yourself after a long week, or bringing something special to a friend’s gathering, trust me—this one’s a game-changer.
Picture this: a fluffy, velvety filling packed with ricotta and mascarpone, kissed with vanilla, dotted with mini chocolate chips, all layered over a sweet, buttery crust. Every bite is rich, creamy, and lightly sweet with a little chocolatey crunch. If you’ve got a sweet tooth (or even just a slightly curious sweet molar), this dessert will hit all the right notes.
Why You’ll Love No-Bake Cannoli Delight
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest. Prefer something extra sweet? A drizzle of honey or caramel works beautifully.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in No-Bake Cannoli Delight
Here’s the secret to this show-stopper—it uses simple pantry staples and transforms them into something unforgettable. Let’s take a peek:
Graham Cracker Crumbs: The perfect crunchy, buttery base that supports all that luscious filling.
Butter: Helps bind the crust and adds that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ricotta Cheese: Light and slightly sweet, ricotta brings the classic cannoli flavor and smooth texture.
Mascarpone Cheese: Ultra-creamy and mildly tangy, mascarpone makes the filling irresistibly decadent.
Powdered Sugar: For that silky-smooth sweetness without the grit of granulated sugar.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the filling—don’t skip it!
Mini Chocolate Chips: Little bursts of chocolatey joy scattered throughout the filling.
Whipped Topping: Makes the filling airy and dreamy without needing to whip cream from scratch.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your dish to create a solid crust layer. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Fold in the whipped topping gently until fully incorporated. Finally, stir in the mini chocolate chips.
Assemble the Dessert: Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula, then sprinkle a few more mini chocolate chips on top for good measure (because why not?).
Chill and Set: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. This helps the dessert set and the flavors to mingle into magic.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice into squares, garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate syrup if you’re feeling fancy, and serve chilled!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 9–12
Calories per serving: Approx. 310
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
How to Serve No-Bake Cannoli Delight
This dessert is a delight on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few fun pairings:
Fresh Berries: A handful of raspberries or strawberries adds color and tartness to balance the sweet filling.
Espresso or Coffee: Serve with a shot of espresso or a latte for an Italian café-style treat.
Liqueur Pairing: A splash of amaretto or limoncello on the side can add a festive touch for adults.
Whipped Cream Swirls: Extra whipped topping never hurt anyone—go for it!
Mini Servings: Spoon into small mason jars or dessert cups for individual portions at parties.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: This dessert is a perfect make-ahead option—great for entertaining!
Flavor Boosts: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest to the filling for a twist.
Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute or reduced-sugar whipped topping for a lighter version.
Storage Tips: Store in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 5 days. It just gets better as it sits!
Freezer Friendly: You can freeze it! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute mascarpone with cream cheese?
A1: Yes! Cream cheese works well and gives a slightly tangier flavor. Just soften it before mixing.
Q2: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
A2: Absolutely. Just whip your cream until stiff peaks form and use it 1:1 in place of the topping.
Q3: How long should I chill it before serving?
A3: At least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture and flavor.
Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?
A4: Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookie crumbs for the crust.
Q5: Can I make it ahead of time for a party?
A5: Definitely! Make it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.
Q6: Can I add fruit to the filling?
A6: Sure! Chopped strawberries or orange zest work beautifully. Just avoid watery fruits.
Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. Best enjoyed within 5 days.
Q8: Can I serve it frozen?
A8: Technically yes, but it’s best slightly thawed for a creamy texture. Think of it like a frozen cannoli pie.
Q9: What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A9: No worries! A regular square or rectangular dish works just fine.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Go for it! Just use a larger dish or two smaller ones and extend the chill time a bit.
And there you have it, my sweet-toothed friend! No-Bake Cannoli Delight is that dreamy dessert you didn’t know you needed, but now won’t want to live without. It’s simple, swoon-worthy, and makes every occasion feel a little more special. Now go grab that spoon—your tastebuds are waiting!
Print
No-Bake Cannoli Delight
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No-Bake Cannoli Delight is a decadent layered dessert featuring creamy chocolate pudding, sweetened ricotta filling, and a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a quick and easy twist on classic cannoli flavors with no oven required.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 (3.9-ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold whole or 2% milk
- 12 whole graham cracker sheets (about 6 1/2 ounces), or 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups cold heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, divided
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup miniature chocolate chips, divided
Instructions
- Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and melted butter until combined. Press into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan to form a crust. Chill in refrigerator.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add chocolate pudding mix and milk. Whisk until thick and creamy. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whip heavy cream with 1/4 cup powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, remaining 1/4 cup powdered sugar, orange zest (if using), vanilla extract, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Fold in half of the whipped cream and 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
- Spread ricotta mixture over the chilled crust. Spread chocolate pudding layer on top. Then top with remaining whipped cream.
- Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips on top. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use high-quality ricotta and drain if it’s too watery.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- Optional: Add chopped pistachios or a dusting of cocoa powder on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg