If you’re searching for an irresistible treat that combines creamy, crunchy, and just the right touch of sweetness, this Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These petite delights capture the essence of classic Italian cannoli in an easy-to-make, bite-sized form that’s perfect for parties, snack time, or just a little indulgence whenever the craving hits. With smooth ricotta filling, bursts of chocolate chips, and optional pistachio crunch, each bite is pure bliss that’s sure to brighten any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a key part in layering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the subtly sweet ricotta filling to the crispy shells, every element enhances the final result.
- 12 mini cannoli shells: These provide the satisfying crunch and hold the creamy filling perfectly.
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese: The creamy base for the filling, lending richness and a luscious texture.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Adds the perfect hint of sweetness, blending smoothly with the ricotta.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Infuses the filling with warm, aromatic notes that elevate the flavor.
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips: Small bursts of chocolate surprise in every bite for a playful contrast.
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios (optional): For a crunchy, nutty finish that adds color and texture flair.
How to Make Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Workspace
Before you dive into filling these delicious shells, get everything ready: your ingredients, a mixing bowl, spatula, a piping bag (or a zip-lock bag with a corner cut off), and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. A neat workspace makes the process smooth and fun.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta and powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture free of lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated, creating a sweet, fragrant base for your cannoli bites.
Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips using a spatula so they’re evenly distributed throughout the ricotta mixture. This ensures each bite has that delightful melty chocolate surprise.
Step 4: Fill the Cannoli Shells
Spoon the ricotta filling into your piping bag or prepared zip-lock bag, then carefully pipe the creamy filling into each mini cannoli shell, filling them just to the brim. Take your time to avoid overfilling—each bite should be neat and delicious.
Step 5: Add Optional Toppings
For an extra pop of texture and color, dip the ends of each filled cannoli into chopped pistachios or sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on the ends. This step is all about adding personality to your treats.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Pop your filled Mini Cannoli Bites into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the filling set while keeping the shells crisp, resulting in the perfect contrast of textures when you take a bite.
How to Serve Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling extra powdered sugar over the finished cannoli bites instantly ups the presentation with a delicate, snowy coating. Fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of melted chocolate are also great ways to garnish when you want to impress your guests.
Side Dishes
Serve these Mini Cannoli Bites alongside a rich espresso or a fruity dessert wine for an authentic Italian dessert experience. A scoop of vanilla gelato on the side complements the creamy filling perfectly and rounds out the dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cannoli bites on a tiered serving stand or in decorative paper cups to make them feel extra special at parties. Another fun idea is to package a few in small gift boxes tied with twine for edible favors that your guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Mini Cannoli Bites, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 2 days to keep the shells from getting soggy and the filling fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
While you can freeze the ricotta filling by itself, it’s best to avoid freezing the filled mini cannoli shells, as the texture of the shells can deteriorate. Prepare the filling ahead, freeze in portions, then thaw before piping into fresh shells to keep that perfect crunch.
Reheating
Since these are best served chilled and crisp, reheating isn’t recommended. If the shells soften after storage, a quick 2–3 minute warm-up in a low-temp oven can help restore some crunch before refilling.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ricotta for this recipe?
You can swap in low-fat ricotta, but keep in mind the texture may be thinner and less creamy, which might affect the overall richness of the filling. Whole milk ricotta really gives the best indulgent experience.
How long do Mini Cannoli Bites stay fresh?
They’re freshest within 24 hours of assembling. After that, the shells can begin to soften from the moisture in the filling, so it’s best to fill them shortly before serving.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The ricotta filling can be made up to two days in advance and stored tightly covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before piping into the shells.
Are pistachios necessary?
Not at all! The pistachios add a lovely crunch and a pop of color, but you can skip them or substitute with other nuts like chopped almonds or even crushed cookies for a different texture.
Can I add other mix-ins to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding small amounts of citrus zest, cinnamon, or even mini candy pieces to personalize your Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe to your liking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly delightful about making and sharing these Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe with loved ones—it’s like handing out small packages of joy filled with creamy sweetness and crunchy goodness. Whether for a casual snack or a festive occasion, these bite-sized treasures promise to brighten anyone’s day. I can’t wait for you to try making them and discover how quickly they become a favorite in your own recipe collection!
Print
Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Delight in these adorable Mini Cannoli Bites that combine crispy mini cannoli shells with a luscious, creamy filling of whole milk ricotta, powdered sugar, and vanilla, studded with mini chocolate chips and optionally garnished with chopped pistachios. Perfect for an elegant appetizer or a sweet treat at any gathering, these no-bake treats are effortless to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Mini Cannoli Bites Ingredients
- 12 mini cannoli shells
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace: Gather all your ingredients and tools such as mixing bowls, a spatula, a piping bag or zip-lock bag, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep your area organized and efficient.
- Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, then add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly to infuse the flavors.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the ricotta filling using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed without deflating the mixture.
- Fill the Cannoli Shells: Transfer the creamy filling into the piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a small corner cut off. Carefully pipe the filling into each mini cannoli shell until they are filled near the brim.
- Add Garnish: For a decorative and flavorful touch, dip each filled cannoli end into chopped pistachios or extra mini chocolate chips, if desired.
- Chill Before Serving: Place the filled mini cannoli bites in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set and chill, enhancing the texture and flavor before serving.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture; drain it well if it’s watery for best results.
- Substitute chocolate chips with mini candied fruit or sprinkles for variation.
- Chilling the filled bites is essential to help the filling firm up and prevent the shells from becoming soggy.
- These bites are best enjoyed within 24 hours of assembly to maintain crispness.
- Perfect for parties, dessert platters, or as a sweet snack.
