Chocolate Cannoli Dip — a simple twist on classic cannoli filling with added chocolate for an irresistible homemade treat. Inspired by the Italian pastry, this dip is creamy, chocolatey, and always a crowd-pleaser.
An easy Chocolate Cannoli Dip recipe for you today. If you love cannoli flavors, this variation adds melted chocolate and mini chips to make a rich, scoopable dessert dip. It’s quick to prepare, kid-friendly, and perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Cannoli Recipes
If you enjoy cannoli flavors, try other variations and desserts that use the same creamy filling. These recipes pair well with this dip and are fun to make for special occasions or any day you want a sweet Italian-inspired treat.
- Best Cannoli Dip
- Cannoli Cake
- Cannoli Cookies
- Cannoli Milkshake
- Cannoli Cream Chocolate Truffles
- Mini Cannoli Dip Cups
Now, let’s walk through how to make this Chocolate Cannoli Dip — it’s fast and forgiving, and you can adapt flavors to suit your taste.
How to Make Chocolate Cannoli Dip
This no-bake dip blends ricotta and mascarpone with melted chocolate and a touch of flavorings to recreate the classic cannoli filling in dip form. It comes together in about 15 minutes and chills nicely if you want to make it ahead.
Instructions overview:
- Place 1/2 cup of the mini chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and melt in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine 15 ounces drained ricotta, 8 ounces mascarpone, and 1 cup powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and well combined with an electric mixer or by hand.
- When the melted chocolate is cool, fold it into the cheese mixture. Add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest (optional), 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix until uniform.
- Stir in the remaining mini chocolate chips. If the dip is too thick, loosen with small amounts of milk or cream. If you prefer a firmer dip, add a bit more powdered sugar.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, top with extra mini chocolate chips and/or chopped nuts, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Flavor tips: orange zest gives a bright citrus note traditional to cannoli; you can omit it or swap for almond extract. For a boozy adult version, stir in a splash of amaretto or chocolate liqueur.
Serving suggestions: pair the dip with apple slices, cannoli chips, graham crackers, vanilla wafers, broken ice cream cone pieces, or any sturdy dippers you like. Arrange an assortment for parties so guests can sample different combinations.
This Chocolate Cannoli Dip is a favorite at gatherings and travels well when chilled. It’s a simple recipe to customize — try swapping mascarpone for cream cheese for a slightly tangier profile, or use low-fat versions if you prefer, though full-fat cheeses create a richer texture.
Storage: cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3–4 days. Stir briefly before serving if the dip firms up.
Recipe
Yield: Makes about 4 cups (approx. 32 two-tablespoon servings)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips, divided
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese, drained if needed
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest (optional)
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping (optional)
- Mini chocolate chips and/or chopped nuts
Serving Suggestions
- Apple slices
- Graham crackers
- Cannoli chips
- Vanilla wafers
- Broken ice cream cones
Instructions
- Place 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Set aside to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta, mascarpone, and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the cooled melted chocolate. Mix in vanilla, orange zest (if using), cinnamon, and salt.
- Stir in the remaining mini chocolate chips. Adjust thickness with milk or powdered sugar as needed.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, top with extra chips or nuts if desired, and chill or serve immediately.
Notes: For a thicker, creamier dip use full-fat ricotta and mascarpone and drain any excess liquid. Cream cheese can be used as a substitute for mascarpone if preferred.
Enjoy this easy Chocolate Cannoli Dip at your next gathering or whenever you want a rich, chocolatey take on classic cannoli flavors. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and sure to be a hit.