Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe

If you adore the classic Italian dessert but want a fun, easy-to-make treat for any occasion, these Mini Cannoli Bites are an absolute must-try. Combining the crisp, buttery charm of mini pie crust cups with a luxuriously creamy filling made from ricotta and mascarpone cheeses, these bites deliver all the beloved flavors of cannoli in a perfectly petite package. Finished with melty mini chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar, they’re irresistibly delicious and endlessly shareable. Trust me, once you make these delightful Mini Cannoli Bites, they’ll become your go-to dessert for parties, family gatherings, or when you just want to treat yourself with something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, using a handful of key ingredients that each play a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the crisp base to the creamy sweet filling, every element is essential and easy to find.

• Premade Pie Crust: Using premade dough makes this recipe incredibly convenient without sacrificing that classic buttery crunch.
• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (strained): Provides a mild, creamy base for the filling; straining ensures it’s not too watery.
• Mascarpone Cheese: Adds a lush, velvety richness that balances the ricotta perfectly.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and depth, enhancing the sweetness of the filling.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling smoothly without any grit — the perfect dusting finish too.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Brings delightful bursts of chocolate and texture in every bite.

How to Make Mini Cannoli Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust Cups

Unroll your premade pie crust dough and cut it into small rounds, just big enough to fit into mini muffin tins. Press each round gently into the tin, forming little shells that will hold all that delicious filling. This crust base is crucial because it provides a crisp, golden contrast to the creamy interior.

Step 2: Bake the Pie Crusts

Bake the crusts in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes until they develop a light golden brown color. Keep a close eye to ensure they don’t overbake or burn—crispy but not too dark is the goal. Let them cool completely before moving on, as firm shells make filling much easier.

Step 3: Make the Filling

While the crust cools, whisk together the strained ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in the mini chocolate chips last to sprinkle bursts of chocolate throughout. Adjust the sweetness to taste, keeping the texture airy but rich.

Step 4: Fill the Pie Cups

Once your mini crusts have cooled, it’s time to make these Mini Cannoli Bites truly shine. Pipe or spoon the creamy filling into each little cup until nicely filled. For a neat and attractive result, try using a piping bag or a plastic bag with a small corner snip. Finish by sprinkling a few extra chocolate chips on top and dusting with powdered sugar.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

These bites are best enjoyed fresh and slightly chilled. Their delightful crunch, paired with the smooth, sweet filling, makes each mouthful a treat that’s hard to resist. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or as an elegant finger food at your next celebration!

How to Serve Mini Cannoli Bites

Garnishes

To add a pop of color and extra flavor, try garnishing your Mini Cannoli Bites with chopped pistachios, a light sprinkle of cocoa powder, or even tiny fresh mint leaves. These garnishes not only boost visual appeal but also complement the sweet, creamy filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

While these bites can stand alone, pairing them with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream elevates the dessert experience without overwhelming the flavors. A simple espresso or cappuccino alongside also creates a perfect Italian-style finish to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, lay out your Mini Cannoli Bites on a charming tiered tray, or serve them nestled on a bed of colorful edible flowers or shredded coconut for a festive touch. You could also place them in small decorative paper cups to make serving and eating fuss-free and elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store your Mini Cannoli Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two days, though they’re always best enjoyed fresh when the crust remains crisp.

Freezing

While it’s generally recommended to enjoy cannoli bites fresh, you can freeze the unfilled pastry shells for up to one month. When ready to serve, simply thaw and fill with the prepared ricotta filling. Avoid freezing the filled bites as the texture of the creamy filling can change.

Reheating

If you want to refresh the crispiness of the crust, gently warm the empty shells in the oven at low heat before filling. Once filled, it’s best to serve the Mini Cannoli Bites chilled rather than reheated, for optimal texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ricotta and mascarpone filling a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a quick stir before filling the crusts to ensure the texture is smooth and scoopable.

What can I substitute for mascarpone?

If you don’t have mascarpone on hand, cream cheese is a great substitute, though it’s slightly tangier. You can also blend cream cheese with a bit of heavy cream to get closer to mascarpone’s rich and silky consistency.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a premade gluten-free pie crust in place of the traditional one, and follow the recipe as usual. The result will still be delicious and perfect for those avoiding gluten.

Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate chips?

Definitely! Crushed pistachios, chopped candied orange peel, or even tiny toffee bits make wonderful mix-ins to personalize your Mini Cannoli Bites.

How long do these bites last once filled?

Once filled, they’re best consumed within 24 to 48 hours for the freshest texture and taste. Over time, the crust may soften slightly from the filling’s moisture.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dessert that’s both charmingly bite-sized and bursting with classic Italian flavors, these Mini Cannoli Bites are the ticket. They’re simple to make, fun to customize, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful morsels—you’ll find they disappear faster than you can say cannoli!

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