Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of indulgence and comfort, look no further than this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie! This delightful treat takes the classic Italian cannoli flavors and transforms them into a creamy, dreamy pie that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe special is its rich filling combined with a crunchy crust, creating a wonderful contrast in textures. Plus, it’s so easy to put together that you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and again. Trust me, once you share this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the sweet chocolate chips and creamy filling.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This pie can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for parties or busy weeknights.
• Delicious Flavor: Each bite bursts with flavors of vanilla, lemon zest, and rich chocolate—it’s truly irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is simple! You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store. These wholesome ingredients come together to create a deliciously creamy filling that’s sure to please everyone.

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these suggestions:

• Add Some Fruit: Mix in fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
• Go Nutty: Toss in some chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for added crunch.
• Change the Chips: Swap mini chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for different flavor profiles.
• Boost the Citrus: Experiment with orange zest instead of lemon zest for a bright citrus flavor.

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 and brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until everything is well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a pie dish. Baking it for just 10 minutes will help set the crust perfectly!

Step 2: Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix together mascarpone cheese, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat together ricotta cheese and heavy whipping cream until fluffy. Gently fold these two mixtures together along with 1 cup of mini chocolate chips. This step creates that luscious filling everyone loves!

Step 3: Assemble Your Pie

Once your crust has cooled slightly after baking, pour the filling into it. Spread it out evenly so every bite is packed with that delicious cannoli flavor. Sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Now comes the hardest part—waiting! Cover your pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least eight hours or overnight if possible. Chilling allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, slice up this decadent Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie and enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Creating the perfect Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is easier than you might think! With a few helpful tips, you’ll impress everyone with your delicious dessert.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mascarpone and ricotta cheese will enhance the flavor and texture, resulting in a creamier filling that everyone will love.

• Chill thoroughly: After assembling the pie, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight). This helps the flavors meld beautifully and ensures a firmer slice when serving.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on your preference, feel free to modify the amount of confectioner’s sugar. A little taste-testing can ensure it’s just right for you!

• Experiment with add-ins: While mini chocolate chips are delightful, consider adding finely chopped nuts or dried fruit into the filling for extra texture and flavor.

• Use a springform pan: A springform pan allows for easy removal of the pie without damaging its shape. Plus, it makes for a stunning presentation!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Presenting your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie beautifully can turn an already delicious dessert into a showstopper. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful treat!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds elegance and enhances the creamy texture.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the pie just before serving for an eye-catching touch.
• Fresh berries: Add a few raspberries or strawberries on the side to not only brighten up the plate but also provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pie.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad complements the richness of the cannoli pie while keeping things balanced.
• Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, providing a cool contrast that enhances each bite of pie.
• Coffee or espresso: Serving coffee or espresso alongside enhances the dessert experience, offering a rich beverage that cuts through sweetness.
• Graham cracker crust cookies: For those who can’t get enough of that graham cracker flavor, these cookies make for a fun and crunchy side treat.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie will be an unforgettable addition to any gathering! Enjoy every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it over several days without any hassle. You can prepare it in advance, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the pie covered in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, add mini chocolate chips just before serving to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• This pie is best served chilled; however, if you prefer a slightly warmer option:
• Place slices on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat for about 10-15 seconds at a time until warm (do not overheat).

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding the Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie:

Can I use different types of cheese for this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?

Yes! While mascarpone and ricotta are traditional choices, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a different flavor profile.

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

When stored properly, this delicious pie can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep it covered!

Is there a way to make this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute vanilla wafer crumbs with gluten-free cookies or graham cracker crumbs. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I add other toppings to my Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like crushed nuts, fresh fruit, or additional chocolate chips. Just make sure they complement the creamy filling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about this delightful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie! Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it truly special for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply indulging yourself after a long week, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy making this treat and share it with your loved ones—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!