Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the creamy goodness of cannoli with the ease of pie, then this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is just what you need! This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional cannoli, bringing together rich flavors and a satisfying texture that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Perfect for special occasions or even a cozy weeknight treat, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

What makes this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie so special? It’s not just the delightful blend of chocolate and cream; it’s also how easy it is to whip up. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that can brighten any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days when you want something special without all the fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves chocolate and cream! This dessert is sure to put smiles on faces of all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this pie in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Just slice and serve!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of mascarpone cheese, ricotta, and chocolate chips creates a creamy filling that’s absolutely decadent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie! You might already have many of these staples at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust

• 2¼ cups vanilla wafer crumbs (~60 vanilla wafers; feel free to 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

The beauty of this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Add Some Spice: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for an autumn twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds into the filling for added texture.
• Fruit Infusion: Toss in some finely chopped strawberries or raspberries for a fruity surprise!
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping for a delicious alternative.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well combined and looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a pie dish. This crust will provide a deliciously sweet base that complements our creamy filling!

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Place your crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This step is important because it helps set the crust so it holds together nicely when filled. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, beat together the mascarpone cheese, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, lemon zest, and ricotta cheese until smooth. This filling is what makes our Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie so delightful—it’s creamy with just enough sweetness!

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In yet another bowl (or using clean beaters), whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold about half of this whipped cream into your cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Then fold in most of the mini chocolate chips—saving some for garnish!

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Carefully spoon your luscious filling into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Top with any remaining whipped cream and sprinkle those extra mini chocolate chips over the top for an added touch of sweetness!

Step 6: Chill

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.

Now you’re ready to slice into this heavenly Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie! Enjoy every bite as you share this delightful treat with loved ones—trust me, they will be asking for your secret recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Making this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is a delightful adventure, and a few pro tips can make your experience even sweeter!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mascarpone and ricotta cheese will elevate the flavor and creaminess of your filling, making every bite irresistible.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the pie to chill for at least 8 hours (or overnight) enhances the flavors and makes it easier to slice. Patience really does pay off!

• Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, feel free to reduce the amount of confectioner’s sugar in the filling. You’ll still enjoy that creamy texture without overwhelming sweetness.

• Experiment with chocolate chips: Try using dark chocolate or white chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips for a twist on the classic flavor profile. It adds a personal touch!

• Make ahead for convenience: This pie can be made a day in advance, which is perfect for parties or family gatherings. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Serving this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is just as fun as making it! With its inviting presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream on top adds an airy sweetness that complements the rich filling beautifully.
• Chocolate shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings not only looks elegant but also enhances the chocolate flavor in every slice.
• Fresh fruit: Adding some fresh berries on the side brings a burst of color and freshness that balances out the richness of the pie.

Side Dishes

• Espresso: A small cup of strong espresso serves as a perfect palate cleanser and pairs wonderfully with the creamy pie.
• Fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad provides a contrast to the richness of the cannoli pie, keeping your dessert experience well-rounded.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each slice creates a delightful combination of temperatures and textures that everyone will love!
• Pistachio biscotti: Crunchy pistachio biscotti is not only great for dipping but also adds a nutty flavor that complements the cannoli pie beautifully.

Enjoy creating this delicious dessert, and don’t forget to share your wonderful results with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to whip it up in advance for gatherings or simply to enjoy throughout the week. Storing this dessert properly ensures that its delicious flavors and textures remain intact.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pie slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and freshness.
• If you notice any excess moisture, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb it.

Freezing

• You can freeze this pie for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• For best results, slice the pie before freezing so you can easily thaw individual servings.
• It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• For a warm slice, you can microwave it briefly on low power; just be careful not to overheat, as you want to maintain that creamy filling.

FAQs

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

Can I make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie without mascarpone cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese mixed with a bit of sour cream for a similar texture and flavor.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this delightful dessert will last about 3-5 days in the fridge.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips to customize the flavor of your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie.

Is Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie suitable for special diets?

While this recipe isn’t vegan or gluten-free as is, you can adapt it using dairy-free alternatives and gluten-free cookies if needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie as much as I do! It’s such a fun twist on a classic dessert, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to experiment a bit – whether it’s adding more lemon zest or trying out different chocolate chip varieties. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!