Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the best of both worlds—rich cannoli flavors and the ease of pie—then this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is just what you need! This dish has become a favorite in my kitchen. The creamy filling, paired with the crunchy crust, creates a delightful treat that everyone can’t resist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this pie brings smiles to the table.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and deliciousness. You can whip it up quickly and even make it ahead of time for those moments when you want to impress without the stress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps, you can have this pie ready without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this sweet treat!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance; it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge.
• Decadently delicious: The combination of chocolate chips and creamy filling makes each bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! For this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, you’ll find that everything you need is simple and wholesome. Let’s take a look at what goes into making this delightful dessert.

For the Crust

• 2¼ cups vanilla wafer crumbs (~60 vanilla wafers; you can also use graham cracker crumbs)
• 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

For Topping

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Change the crust: Swap out vanilla wafers for graham crackers or even crushed nuts for added texture.
• Add fruit: Mix in some fresh berries or sliced bananas to give your pie an extra fruity twist.
• Try different chocolates: Use dark chocolate chips instead of mini ones for a richer flavor.
• Make it lighter: Substitute lower-fat ricotta cheese for a slightly healthier version without losing creaminess.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine your vanilla wafer crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well combined and looks like wet sand. This mixture will form your crust, so make sure it holds together nicely when pressed into your pie dish. Press it evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the dish before popping it into the oven for about 10 minutes. Baking gives your crust a lovely golden color and helps set it perfectly!

Step 2: Make the Filling

While your crust cools, it’s time to create that irresistible filling! In another bowl, mix together mascarpone cheese, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest until smooth. Then gently fold in ricotta cheese until just combined. This step is crucial as it ensures a creamy texture without overmixing. The addition of lemon zest adds brightness to balance all that sweetness.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip your heavy cream until stiff peaks form—this adds lightness to your filling! Once whipped, fold it gently into your mascarpone mixture along with 1 cup of mini chocolate chips. Take care not to deflate that airy cream; we want every bite to be fluffy and delicious!

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Pour your luscious filling into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Top with remaining chocolate chips for that extra pop of flavor! Cover with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight if possible. Chilling allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

When you’re ready to serve, slice up that beautiful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie and watch everyone dive in! It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying on a quiet night with loved ones. Each slice promises creamy goodness wrapped in nostalgia—you might just find yourself making this pie again and again!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Making the perfect Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mascarpone and ricotta cheese will enhance the flavor and creaminess of your filling. High-quality ingredients make all the difference in this delightful dessert.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the cheeses and whipped cream, gently fold them together. Overmixing can lead to a dense filling, while folding keeps it light and airy.

• Chill thoroughly: Allowing your pie to chill in the refrigerator for several hours (or overnight) not only sets the filling but also melds the flavors beautifully. Patience pays off in deliciousness!

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of confectioner’s sugar based on your personal preference. A little taste test can help you find that perfect balance between sweet and creamy.

• Experiment with flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different extracts or spices to your filling. Almond extract or orange zest can add a unique twist that makes your pie even more special.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Presenting your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie in an appealing way can make it even more enjoyable for your guests! Here are some ideas to make serving a breeze.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a delightful lightness and complements the rich filling beautifully.
• Chocolate shavings: Grate some dark chocolate over the top for an elegant touch that enhances both presentation and flavor.
• Fresh berries: Adding a few fresh raspberries or strawberries not only looks stunning but also provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet pie.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the pie.
• Coffee or espresso: Serving a cup of coffee or espresso alongside slices of pie creates a lovely after-dinner experience, perfect for winding down.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream next to your slice adds an extra creamy component that’s hard to resist!
• Chocolate sauce drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce around your plate can elevate your dessert presentation and provide an extra layer of indulgence.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every slice, knowing you’ve created something truly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert without the last-minute fuss. Here’s how to keep your pie fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to make this dessert ahead of time, consider freezing it.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just remember to label it with the date!
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For serving, it’s best enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge.
• If desired, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before slicing for easier serving.
• Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may alter the texture of the filling.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie.

Can I make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it some time to set properly in the fridge for best results.

What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese in Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?

If you don’t have mascarpone cheese, you can use cream cheese mixed with a little sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture.

How long does Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie last?

When stored correctly, this pie will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or you can freeze it for up to 2 months.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolate chips like mint or peanut butter.

Is there a gluten-free option for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?

Certainly! You can use gluten-free vanilla wafer crumbs or graham cracker crumbs instead of regular ones to make this pie gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie as I am! It’s such a special recipe that combines creamy goodness with just enough sweetness, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy creating this delightful treat and sharing it with friends and family—you might just find them asking for seconds! Happy baking!