There is nothing quite like the charm and indulgence of a classic Italian dessert, and this Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe captures all that deliciousness in a perfectly bite-sized form. These tiny treats combine the creamy richness of ricotta, the sweet surprise of chocolate chips, and the crisp crunch of delicate cannoli shells into a dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. Whether you’re serving guests at a party or simply craving a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are both simple and essential. Each one plays a big role in delivering the texture and flavor that make these bites irresistible.
- 12 mini cannoli shells: The crisp shells provide the perfect crunchy shell to hold the smooth filling.
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese: This creamy base gives the bites their signature rich, velvety texture.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering the ricotta.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that elevates the whole dessert.
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips: These little bursts of chocolate provide delightful pockets of sweetness in every bite.
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios (optional): For a pop of color and a nutty crunch that adds a lovely contrast.
How to Make Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Start by gathering all your ingredients and kitchen tools, including mixing bowls, a spatula, a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with its corner snipped, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Having everything ready helps the process go smoothly and keeps your kitchen organized.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta cheese with powdered sugar. Stir them together until you get a beautifully smooth and creamy mixture. Next, add the vanilla extract and mix until it’s fully integrated, giving the filling that wonderful fragrant undertone that makes each bite special.
Step 3: Fold in Mini Chocolate Chips
Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the ricotta mixture with a spatula to distribute them evenly. This step adds those unexpected chocolate bursts that make every bite exciting and indulgent.
Step 4: Fill the Cannoli Shells
Transfer your luscious filling into your piping bag or zip-lock bag. Carefully pipe the creamy mixture into each mini cannoli shell until it’s just brimming with filling. Filling them gently ensures the shells don’t crack and that you get a perfectly stuffed bite every time.
Step 5: Add a Nutty or Chocolatey Finish
For an extra touch of elegance and texture, dip the ends of filled cannoli shells into chopped pistachios or some additional mini chocolate chips. This little detail not only looks stunning but also enhances the flavor and crunch with every nibble.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Place your filled cannoli bites in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the filling to set up slightly, so the bites maintain their shape and develop even better flavor as the ingredients meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over your Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe to add a touch of snowy elegance. Alternatively, you can drizzle melted chocolate or add a few finely chopped pistachios on top for a colorful and flavorful flourish that impresses every guest.
Side Dishes
These cannoli bites pair wonderfully with a cup of rich espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine. Fresh berries or a mixed fruit platter also complement the creamy ricotta and crisp shell by offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a gorgeous presentation, arrange the cannoli bites on a decorative platter with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves scattered around. You can also serve them in individual mini cupcake liners or display them on skewers for a fun, party-ready dessert option everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Because the shells can soften over time, it’s best to enjoy them within 1 to 2 days for optimal crispness and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing filled cannoli bites isn’t ideal, as the texture of the shells tends to change when frozen. However, you can freeze the cannoli shells separately and store the ricotta filling in a sealed container for up to a week. Assemble the bites fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Reheating
Instead of reheating, allow refrigerated cannoli bites to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to unlock their FULL flavor without compromising the shell’s texture. Warmth isn’t necessary for this dessert since it’s meant to be enjoyed cool and creamy.
FAQs
Can I make the filling ahead of time for this Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ricotta filling a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before filling the shells to keep the texture smooth and creamy.
What can I use if I can’t find mini cannoli shells?
If mini cannoli shells are hard to find, try using small, crispy pastry tubes or even sturdy cookie cups for a similar effect. Just make sure they’re crisp enough to hold the filling without becoming soggy quickly.
Is it necessary to chill the filled cannoli bites?
Chilling them helps the filling set and allows the flavors to blend layer beautifully. It also keeps the shells firm longer, making sure your Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe has the perfect texture when served.
Can I substitute the chocolate chips for something else?
Yes! You can swap mini chocolate chips for chopped candied fruit, crushed nuts, or even white chocolate chips depending on your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Are pistachios required for this recipe?
Pistachios are completely optional but highly recommended for their lovely crunch and color contrast. If you have a nut allergy or want a different twist, crushed freeze-dried fruit or finely chopped toasted coconut also works beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is such a joyful satisfaction in making and sharing this Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe. It’s simple enough for a quick treat but elegant enough to wow guests and loved ones alike. Once you try these creamy, crunchy, flavor-packed bites, they’ll become your go-to dessert whenever you want to impress without the fuss. Give them a whirl—you won’t regret it!
Print
Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Mini Cannoli Bites offer a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring crisp mini cannoli shells filled with a smooth and sweet ricotta cheese mixture, studded with mini chocolate chips and optionally garnished with chopped pistachios. Perfect for parties or a quick sweet treat, these bite-sized desserts are easy to prepare and require no baking.
Ingredients
Shells
- 12 mini cannoli shells
Filling
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
Optional Garnishes
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare Workspace: Gather all ingredients and necessary tools, including mixing bowls, a spatula, a piping bag (or zip-lock bag), and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to make assembly smooth and organized.
- Mix Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, blend the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse flavor.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the ricotta mixture using a spatula to evenly distribute without deflating the creaminess.
- Fill Cannoli Shells: Transfer the prepared filling into a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a corner cut off. Carefully pipe the filling into each mini cannoli shell until they are just filled to the brim.
- Garnish: For an extra touch of texture and flavor, dip the ends of each filled cannoli shell into chopped pistachios or additional mini chocolate chips.
- Chill: Place the filled mini cannoli bites on the parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to firm up for optimal taste and texture before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the ricotta is well-drained to avoid a watery filling.
- Use whole milk ricotta for creamier and richer texture; part-skim ricotta is a lighter alternative.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pistachio garnish.
- These bites are best served chilled but should be consumed within 1-2 days of assembly for freshness.
