Name: Mini Cannoli Bites for Irresistible Sweet Escape at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pack Premade Pie Crust (Ideal for quick assembly; store-bought works perfectly.); 1 cup Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (Be sure to strain for texture.); 1 cup Mascarpone Cheese (Adds richness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Can be swapped for almond extract.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Adjust according to sweetness preference.); 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (Dark or white chocolate can be used.)

The moment you pop one of these Mini Cannoli Bites into your mouth, it feels like a little festival of flavors right on your taste buds. I’ve always adored traditional cannoli, but let’s be honest—the hassle of rolling out dough and frying can be overwhelming, especially after a long day. That’s why I developed this quick dessert that captures the essence of that Italian classic in just 30 minutes! With a creamy ricotta and mascarpone filling nestled in buttery pie crust shells, these bite-sized treats are a cinch to whip up and perfect for any gathering. Not only are they a delightful crowd-pleaser, but they also make a wonderful homemade dessert when those cravings strike. Curious about what makes this recipe a must-try? Let’s dive in!

Why Will You Love Mini Cannoli Bites?

Quick and Easy: You’ll whip these up in just 30 minutes! Perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or unexpected guests.

Irresistible Flavor: A delightful mix of creamy ricotta and mascarpone brings classic Italian flavors to life, while mini chocolate chips add a sweet surprise.

Crowd-Pleasing Elegance: These bite-sized treats are visually stunning and sure to impress at gatherings, making you the star of any event.

Versatile Variations: Customize them effortlessly! Try different fillings or shell options like phyllo pastry cups, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a twist.

Minimal Effort, Maximum Satisfaction: Who needs takeout when you can create such a delightful dessert from home? If you love these, explore more treats like our Fried Cheese Bites or Cheesecake Cookie Bites.

Mini Cannoli Bites Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything you need!

For the Shells

Premade Pie Crust – Ideal for quick assembly; store-bought works perfectly to save time.

For the Filling

Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – Be sure to strain for a creamy, non-watery texture.
Mascarpone Cheese – Adds a rich, luscious flavor that elevates the filling’s creaminess.
Vanilla Extract – A splash brings depth to the sweet filling; feel free to swap for almond extract if you want a twist.
Powdered Sugar – Sweeten to your liking, adjusting for your desired level of sweetness in these Mini Cannoli Bites.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Sprinkle these in for delightful bursts of chocolate; you can use dark or white chocolate if preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mini Cannoli Bites

Step 1: Prepare Shells
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the premade pie crust and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Using a 2½-inch cutter, carefully cut out 12 rounds. Gently press each round into an ungreased mini muffin pan, ensuring they fit snugly to create little cups that will hold the filling beautifully.

Step 2: Bake
Place the mini muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges of the pie crust are light golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the shells cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the strained whole milk ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey surprise in your Mini Cannoli Bites.

Step 4: Assemble Bites
Once your pie shells are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble your Mini Cannoli Bites! Fill a piping bag with the creamy filling and pipe it generously into each pie cup. Aim for a nice swirl on top for an elegant presentation. To finish, garnish with a few mini chocolate chips and a light dusting of powdered sugar for that classic cannoli touch.

Make Ahead Options

These Mini Cannoli Bites are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeks! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix together the strained ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla, then store it covered in the fridge. Additionally, the pie shells can be baked a day ahead and kept in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain that delightful crisp texture. When you’re ready to serve, fill the cooled shells with the filling and garnish them just before enjoying. This method allows you to create these delicious bites with minimal effort while ensuring they taste just as delightful as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Mini Cannoli Bites

Perfectly Strained Ricotta: Straining your ricotta beforehand is crucial. It keeps the filling creamy rather than watery, ensuring your Mini Cannoli Bites have that delightful texture.
Pre-bake Pie Shells: To avoid soggy bottoms, bake your pie crust shells until golden and crisp. Let them cool entirely before filling to maintain their crunch.
Piping Techniques: Use a piping bag for filling. This not only makes it easier but allows you to create a lovely swirl that elevates the presentation of your Mini Cannoli Bites.
Fill Before Serving: Assemble Mini Cannoli Bites just before serving. This will keep the shells crispy and prevent any moisture from making them soggy.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add variations! A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of almond extract in your filling can transform the taste and make them your own.

Storage Tips for Mini Cannoli Bites

Fridge: Store leftover Mini Cannoli Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This helps maintain their flavor and freshness.

Assembly Timing: To keep the pie shells crispy, fill them just before serving. If you make the filling ahead, store it in the fridge and fill the shells on the day of serving.

Freezer: For best results, avoid freezing these bites as the texture of the filling might change, becoming watery or grainy upon thawing and affecting taste.

Reheating Tips: If you find the need to reheat any unfilled shells, place them in a warm oven (around 350°F) for a few minutes until they regain some crispness.

What to Serve with Mini Cannoli Bites?

Pairing the delightful flavors of these sweet bites can elevate your dessert experience, making every gathering extra special.

Espresso Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of espresso perfectly contrast the sweetness, adding a delightful pick-me-up alongside your bites.
Berry Compote: A tangy berry sauce creates a beautiful color contrast and balances the sweetness with its tartness, enhancing every bite.
Italian Merlot: A glass of smooth, fruity Merlot brings out the creamy richness of the filling, making for an elegant pairing.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy ice cream complements the crunchy texture of the cannoli bites, creating a delightful contrast with each spoonful.
Pistachio Biscotti: The nutty crunch paired with a satisfying sweetness makes these a perfect munch alongside your cannoli, giving a lovely Italian theme.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Juicy strawberries coated in chocolate add a fresh, fruity note that beautifully pairs with the creamy sweetness of the cannoli.
Limoncello: This zesty lemon liqueur cleanses the palate between bites, providing a refreshing lift after the rich flavors of the dessert.
Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch to each cannoli, enhancing the overall indulgence.
Almond Cookies: Crunchy almond cookies bring a nutty flavor and a delightful texture, making for a charming dessert duo with your Mini Cannoli Bites.

Mini Cannoli Bites: Sweet Customizations

Feel free to make these delightful Mini Cannoli Bites your own and explore tasty variations that will excite your palate!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk ricotta and mascarpone with coconut or cashew cream for a creamy vegan filling that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Throw in some finely chopped pistachios to the filling or use them as a topping for an extra crunch and added flavor.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in some crushed raspberries or strawberries to the filling for a fruity twist. It adds a fresh burst and beautiful color!
Spicy Hints: A pinch of espresso powder or cinnamon can transform the flavor profile. The robust notes complement the sweetness beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Trade mini chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks or even a swirl of Nutella inside for an indulgent treat. Each bite becomes an adventure!
Savory Spin: Try adding a touch of lemon zest to the ricotta filling for a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. It’s a refreshing twist!
Gourmet Finish: Drizzle with a rich chocolate or caramel sauce before serving for an elevated dessert experience that looks as good as it tastes!

Customize these bites to match your mood or occasion. For more sweet ideas, check out our delicious Strawberry Chocolate Decadent or explore the delightful flavor of Fried Cheese Bites.

Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe FAQs

What kind of pie crust should I use for Mini Cannoli Bites?
Absolutely! For the shells, I recommend using premade pie crust since it saves time and effort. Whether you choose a store-bought option or make it from scratch, the goal is to have a flaky, buttery shell that holds your creamy filling perfectly.

How do I know if my ricotta cheese is ripe for use?
Very important! You’ll want to use whole milk ricotta cheese that has a fresh, mild flavor. Avoid any that has dark spots all over or a sour smell. Always strain it before using to ensure a creamy filling without excess moisture.

How should I store leftover Mini Cannoli Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To keep them fresh and delightful, it’s best to fill the pie shells just before serving. This helps maintain the crispiness of the crust.

Can I freeze Mini Cannoli Bites?
Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend freezing them due to the potential textural changes in the filling. However, if you find yourself with extra pie shells, you can freeze them uncooked. Just assemble and fill your Mini Cannoli Bites right before serving whenever you’re ready.

What can I do if my filling is too watery?
Should that happen, the main solution is to ensure you thoroughly strain your ricotta beforehand. Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour, pressing down gently to remove excess moisture. This method works wonders and will yield a creamy filling that’s perfect for your Mini Cannoli Bites!

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! Keep in mind that this recipe contains dairy ingredients like ricotta and mascarpone, which could be problematic for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. If you’re cooking for someone with such dietary restrictions, consider using lactose-free alternatives or plant-based substitutes to create an allergy-friendly filling.