Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings joy to any gathering, let me introduce you to my Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie. This delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert is creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-delicious. Every bite is a celebration of flavors that combines the rich taste of mascarpone and ricotta with the sweetness of chocolate chips. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to indulge your sweet tooth or for family gatherings where everyone is craving something special.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is how simple it is to whip up! Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie will impress your family and friends without keeping you in the kitchen all day. It’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this pie ready to chill while you go about your day.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of creamy cheese and chocolate chips appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and just pop it in the fridge. It’s perfect for parties or last-minute gatherings!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of vanilla, lemon zest, and chocolate creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion from holiday dinners to casual get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now, let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delectable Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store!

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

Variations

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to customize it:

• Add More Zest: Boost the flavor by adding more lemon zest or even some orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Stir in some chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for added texture and flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for a lighter version that still tastes amazing!
• Flavor Swap: Use different flavored extracts such as almond or hazelnut instead of vanilla for a unique twist.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a pie dish. This crust is essential as it provides a sweet foundation that balances the creamy filling.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Place your crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Baking helps set it up nicely so it holds its shape when filled. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, beat together mascarpone cheese, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, lemon zest, and ricotta cheese until smooth. This step is crucial because it creates that luscious filling we all love!

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In yet another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into your cheese mixture until fully incorporated. This adds an airy lightness to your filling that makes each slice melt-in-your-mouth delicious!

Step 5: Combine with Chocolate Chips

Stir in one cup of mini chocolate chips into your filling mix—this is where all that chocolaty goodness comes from! Spread this delightful mixture evenly over your cooled crust.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Cover your pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight if possible. Chilling allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully! When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for an extra touch.

And there you have it! A beautiful slice of Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie ready to be enjoyed by all. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Creating the perfect Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is easier than you might think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh mascarpone and ricotta cheese will enhance the flavor and texture of your filling, making it rich and creamy.
• Let it Chill – After assembling the pie, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight if possible). This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures the filling sets up perfectly.
• Mix Gently – When folding in the whipped cream and chocolate chips, do so gently to maintain that light and airy texture. This keeps your filling fluffy rather than dense.
• Experiment with Zest – Feel free to adjust the lemon zest according to your preference. A little more can brighten up the flavor, while less can keep it mellow if you’re not a fan of citrus notes.
• Keep It Covered – Store any leftovers covered in the fridge to keep it fresh. This also prevents it from absorbing any other odors from your refrigerator.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

This delightful dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also makes a stunning presentation! Here are some ideas on how to serve your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
• Chocolate Shavings – Adding chocolate shavings as a garnish provides an extra layer of chocolate flavor and makes for a visually appealing dessert.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries – A side of mixed berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast that complements the richness of the pie.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with this pie, offering a classic combination that everyone loves.
• Whipped Coconut Cream – For a dairy-free alternative, try serving with whipped coconut cream. It brings a lightness that balances out the rich filling beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Happy baking!

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. Plus, it stores well, making it a great choice for gatherings or sweet cravings throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• If you notice any excess moisture on top, gently dab it with a paper towel before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• This pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

• This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat!
• If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delightful dessert!

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

Absolutely! While mascarpone and ricotta are traditional, you can experiment with cream cheese or even vegan alternatives if desired. Just ensure that they have a similar consistency for the best results.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Enjoy it while it’s at its best!

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the mascarpone and ricotta with dairy-free cream cheese and ricotta-style products. Additionally, use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for that luscious texture.

Can I add more chocolate chips to my Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?

Definitely! Feel free to increase the amount of mini chocolate chips based on your preference. Just remember that too many may alter the filling consistency slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie brings joy to your kitchen just as it has to mine! It’s a delightful blend of creamy goodness and rich chocolate that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy making this special treat and sharing it with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like homemade desserts filled with love. Happy baking!