The No-Bake Cannoli Pie is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, blending the rich creaminess of mascarpone and ricotta cheeses with the crunch of chocolate chips in a buttery graham cracker crust. This pie is perfect for anyone who craves the flavors of cannoli but wants a dessert that’s incredibly simple to make.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just indulging in a treat for yourself, this dessert checks all the boxes. With no baking required, it’s stress-free and perfect for warm weather or last-minute preparations. Its velvety filling and satisfying crunch make it a crowd-pleaser every time!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips, divided
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Optional: crushed cannoli shells or additional chocolate chips for garnish
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in 3/4 cup of the mini chocolate chips, reserving the rest for topping.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cheese mixture until well combined.
- Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips over the top. If desired, garnish with crushed cannoli shells or extra chocolate chips.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy this creamy cannoli-inspired treat!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: None | Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
History and Origin of Cannoli Pie
Cannoli, a classic Sicilian dessert, are beloved for their crisp, fried shells and sweet ricotta filling. The origins of this iconic treat can be traced back to ancient Sicily, where the recipe was influenced by the island’s long history of Arab and Norman occupations. Traditionally, cannoli were made for special occasions such as Carnivale or weddings, and the name “cannolo” literally means “little tube” in Italian, referring to the shape of the pastry.
While the original cannoli filling consists of ricotta cheese, candied fruit, and sometimes chocolate, over time, variations have emerged, including more modern renditions like cannoli pie. This version offers all the flavors of the classic cannoli in a more accessible, no-bake form, making it perfect for busy days or gatherings where you want to impress without the hassle of frying or baking.
Why You’ll Love No-Bake Cannoli Pie
This No-Bake Cannoli Pie is a wonderful twist on the traditional dessert, offering the same creamy, rich flavors of the classic Sicilian treat in an easier-to-make, no-bake format. The pie features a luscious filling made from a blend of ricotta and mascarpone cheeses, sweetened with powdered sugar and lightly spiced with cinnamon. It’s topped with mini chocolate chips, adding a perfect burst of flavor and texture that complements the creamy filling. With a graham cracker crust and no need for baking, it’s ideal for hot summer days when you want a chilled dessert to serve without turning on the oven.
Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something indulgent yet simple to make, this No-Bake Cannoli Pie will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s a delicious, fuss-free way to enjoy the classic flavors of cannoli with a modern twist.
Tips for Making the Perfect No-Bake Cannoli Pie
- Use Quality Cheese: The secret to the creamy filling is using high-quality ricotta and mascarpone cheeses. Make sure the ricotta is well-drained to avoid any excess liquid that could affect the consistency of the filling.
- Chill the Pie: For the best texture and flavor, it’s important to chill the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the filling set and allows the flavors to meld together.
- Garnishing Ideas: While chocolate chips are a classic topping, you can get creative with garnishes. Crushed cannoli shells, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even chopped pistachios can be added to enhance the pie’s visual appeal and flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This pie is perfect for making ahead of time. The longer it sits in the fridge, the more the flavors will develop, making it even more delicious. You can prepare it the night before and serve it the next day for a hassle-free dessert.
- Personalize Your Pie: Add your own personal touch to this recipe by experimenting with different mix-ins, such as candied orange peel, lemon zest, or chopped dark chocolate for a unique twist.
Tips for Making the Perfect No-Bake Cannoli Pie
- Choose the Right Cheese
The key to a smooth and flavorful cannoli filling is the cheese. Ricotta is the traditional choice, but for a creamier and more indulgent texture, mascarpone is a great addition. Be sure to use whole-milk ricotta, as it will give the best texture and flavor. If possible, drain the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh strainer for 30 minutes before using to get rid of excess moisture, ensuring the filling isn’t too runny. - Whip the Cream to Stiff Peaks
The whipped cream adds lightness and airiness to the cannoli filling. Make sure you whip the cream to stiff peaks (when the whipped cream holds its shape and doesn’t droop) before gently folding it into the cheese mixture. This will create the smooth, fluffy texture you’re looking for. - Crust Options
While a graham cracker crust is traditional and convenient, feel free to get creative with the crust! You could use a crushed biscotti crust, an Oreo cookie crust, or even a homemade phyllo dough crust for a slightly more crisp and flaky texture. If you’re making it gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free graham cracker or cookie crust. - Garnishing Ideas
For an extra touch of authenticity, you can garnish the pie with crumbled cannoli shells, which will add a crunchy texture to contrast with the creamy filling. Alternatively, fresh fruit like strawberries or orange zest can complement the sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling. If you’re a chocolate lover, adding extra mini chocolate chips or drizzling the pie with melted chocolate can give it a decadent finish. - Make Ahead and Storage
One of the best things about this No-Bake Cannoli Pie is that it can be made ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for several hours or overnight, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Just be sure to add any crunchy toppings, like chocolate chips or crushed cannoli shells, right before serving to maintain their texture. - Customizing the Recipe
This dessert is incredibly versatile! You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. If you prefer a more citrusy note, add a bit of orange zest to the filling. For a nuttier flavor, fold in chopped pistachios, a common ingredient in traditional Sicilian cannoli. Want to make it more indulgent? Consider mixing in a few tablespoons of chocolate or hazelnut spread for a richer flavor profile.
Why This No-Bake Cannoli Pie is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re celebrating an Italian holiday like Ferragosto, preparing for a dinner party, or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this No-Bake Cannoli Pie fits the bill. It’s effortless to prepare, yet it has all the luxurious flavors of a traditional cannoli without the mess and effort of frying or baking.
Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. People of all ages will be delighted by its rich, creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Serve it at family gatherings, potlucks, or any celebration where you want to add a touch of Italian sweetness to the occasion.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this No-Bake Cannoli Pie with a variety of beverages to enhance the dessert experience:
- Coffee – A strong espresso or a cup of Italian-style coffee pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the pie.
- Sweet Wine – Try a glass of Moscato d’Asti or a dessert wine like Vin Santo to complement the pie’s sweetness.
- Fresh Fruit – A side of fresh berries or citrus fruits like orange slices will cut through the richness of the pie and balance the flavors.
This No-Bake Cannoli Pie is not only a treat for the taste buds, but also a celebration of Italian culinary tradition, with a simple yet indulgent twist. Enjoy!
Conclusion
This No-Bake Cannoli Pie is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the classic Sicilian cannoli flavors without the hassle of frying or baking. The creamy ricotta and mascarpone filling, paired with a crunchy graham cracker crust and topped with chocolate chips, makes for a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Its no-bake nature allows for quick preparation, and it can be made ahead of time for convenience. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized with different toppings or crusts. Whether for a party or a simple treat, this No-Bake Cannoli Pie is sure to be a hit and will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.