As I stood in my kitchen, the irresistible aroma of baked goods filled the air, transporting me back to my grandmother’s bustling Italian kitchen, where the art of dessert-making was both a tradition and a passion. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on a classic Italian treat: Mini Cannoli Bites. These delightful little indulgences pack all the creamy, sweet goodness of traditional cannoli into a perfectly bite-sized form. Not only are they an easy recipe to whip up, but they’re also a fun way to impress guests at your next gathering or simply satisfy that sweet tooth after a long day. With a crisp pie crust shell and a luscious ricotta filling, these Mini Cannoli Bites are sure to become a cherished favorite in your home, just like they are in mine. Ready to dive into this delicious adventure? Let’s get started!
Why are Mini Cannoli Bites so special?
Delightful and easy to make, these Mini Cannoli Bites embody all the traditional flavors of a classic cannoli without the fuss. Bite-sized perfection means they’re perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a sweet treat any day of the week. Rich, creamy filling made with mascarpone and ricotta strikes a perfect flavor balance, while the crunchy shell adds delightful texture. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these treats are time-saving and sure to impress, making them a must-try. Want more sweet inspiration? Check out my Cranberry Cream Cheese or consider making some Forgotten Cookies for variety!
Mini Cannoli Bites Ingredients
For the Shell
• Premade Pie Crust – Provides the crunchy shell; can be substituted with homemade pie crust if desired.
For the Filling
• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – Adds creamy texture and flavor; ensure it’s strained to remove excess moisture for the best consistency.
• Mascarpone Cheese – Enhances creaminess; it acts like an Italian cream cheese, making it integral to the filling for optimal flavor.
• Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness to the filling; feel free to adjust based on your personal sweetness preference.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; you can swap for almond extract for a delightful twist.
• Mini Chocolate Chips – Adds a sweet chocolate flavor; regular chocolate chips or chopped chocolate can also be used for a different experience.
For Garnishing
• Additional Mini Chocolate Chips – Perfect for topping; adds an extra burst of sweet flavor.
• Powdered Sugar – Lightly dust on top for an appealing finish; can also add an element of elegance to your presentation.
• Chopped Pistachios or Red Cherries – Great for garnishment; adds a pop of color and a unique flavor contrast.
These Mini Cannoli Bites ingredients promise to create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also holds the essence of traditional Italian flavors in every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mini Cannoli Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Shells
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the premade pie crust on a lightly floured surface and use a 2 ½ inch round cutter to create 12 rounds. Gently press each round into an ungreased mini muffin tin, making sure to push down the center to form a shell. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown, then let them cool in the tin for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the shells cool, prepare the rich filling for your Mini Cannoli Bites. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of strained whole milk ricotta cheese, ½ cup mascarpone cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Fold in ¼ cup of mini chocolate chips to add a sweet bite to your filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Cannoli Bites
Once the shells are completely cooled, it’s time to fill them! Place the creamy filling in a zip-lock bag or a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Squeeze the bag gently to fill each pastry shell with the delightful ricotta mixture, creating a generous mound in each one. Take your time to ensure they’re filled well, creating that classic cannoli look.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
To finish your Mini Cannoli Bites, sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top of each filled shell for added sweetness and visual appeal. For an elegant touch, dust the bites lightly with powdered sugar, and consider adding a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or a cherry on top for color. Serve immediately for the best texture, or chill briefly before enjoying.
Mini Cannoli Bites Customizations
Feel free to put your unique spin on these delightful Mini Cannoli Bites; they’re an inviting canvas for flavor and texture!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crust instead of traditional to cater to dietary needs without losing the crunch.
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Vegan: Swap the dairy filling for a mixture of silken tofu, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract for a creamy, plant-based alternative.
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Fruit-Infused: Add finely chopped fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, to the filling for a fresh burst of flavor. It’s a delightful twist that enhances sweetness!
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped pistachios or hazelnuts into the filling to add a lovely crunch and hint of nuttiness. The combination will make each bite even more satisfying.
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No-Chocolate: For a vintage take, omit the mini chocolate chips and add a hint of orange zest for a delightful citrus flavor that’s both zesty and aromatic.
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Spicy Kick: Add a touch of cinnamon or even cayenne to the filling for unexpected warmth that surprises your taste buds.
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Decadent Drizzle: Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce on top before serving for a rich, indulgent experience that takes your Mini Cannoli Bites to the next level.
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Fruity Dipping Sauce: Serve alongside a raspberry or chocolate dipping sauce, perfect for those who love extra sweetness! Pairing these bites with a fruity sauce makes every bite an adventure.
If you’re looking for more delightful dessert ideas to accompany these treats, consider checking out my Cranberry Cream Cheese dish or try whipping up some crunchy Forgotten Cookies for complete and enticing flavors!
What to Serve with Mini Cannoli Bites?
When you’re ready to indulge in these delightful treats, consider complementing them with flavors that sing in harmony and enhance your dessert experience.
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Espresso Coffee: A bold espresso pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta filling, cutting through the sweetness for a well-rounded end to your meal.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst and tartness, providing a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate and cream.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream creates a luscious and cool pairing that amplifies the dessert’s indulgence, making every moment a sweet escape.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce over the bites adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream served on the side elevates the treat, adding an extra creamy cloud to enjoy with each bite.
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Homemade Limoncello: A chilled, homemade limoncello serves as a zesty palate cleanser, brightening the overall flavor profile with a citrus twist.
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Pistachio Crumble: Sprinkle finely chopped pistachios over the bites for an appealing crunch and a nod to traditional cannoli garnishes.
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Prosecco: A glass of bubbly prosecco adds a celebratory feel while enhancing the dessert experience with its light effervescence and fruity notes.
Pair these treats with any of these options to create a memorable dessert spread that will delight your family and guests alike!
Storage Tips for Mini Cannoli Bites
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Fridge: Store assembled Mini Cannoli Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Note that the crust may become slightly softer over time.
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Make-Ahead Filling: Prepare the ricotta filling up to 2 days in advance and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble the bites just before serving for the best texture.
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Freezer: If you want to freeze your bites, do so before filling. Unbaked pie crust shells can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Once ready, bake from frozen and then fill.
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Reheating: If you have leftover filled bites, gently reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to warm them slightly, but they are best enjoyed cold.
Make Ahead Options
These Mini Cannoli Bites are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance; simply mix the strained ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips, then refrigerate in an airtight container to maintain its creamy consistency. For the crusts, bake them and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just fill the cooled shells with the ricotta mixture and garnish with chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar. This way, you can enjoy fresh, delightful Mini Cannoli Bites with minimal effort, making your dessert planning a breeze!
Expert Tips for Perfect Mini Cannoli Bites
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Strain the Ricotta: Ensure to strain the whole milk ricotta cheese thoroughly to avoid a watery filling, which can detract from the overall texture of your Mini Cannoli Bites.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the filling ingredients, mix until just smooth. Overmixing can make your cannoli filling too airy and affect the creamy consistency.
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Temperature Control: Always allow the pie crust shells to cool completely before filling them. This ensures that the cream doesn’t melt and makes for a more delightful eating experience.
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Decorative Touches: For an elegant presentation, use a star piping tip when filling the shells. This gives your Mini Cannoli Bites a professional touch that will impress your guests.
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Make Ahead Option: Prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance, but assemble the bites just before serving to keep the crust crispy and fresh. This will save you time during any gathering.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors; adding a pinch of cinnamon or swapping vanilla for almond extract can take your Mini Cannoli Bites to the next level.
Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for my Mini Cannoli Bites?
Absolutely! For this recipe, choose high-quality whole milk ricotta cheese that smells fresh and has a smooth texture. You want it creamy with no excess water, so straining is essential. If you can, pick a ricotta that has a rich flavor; it makes all the difference.
What is the best way to store Mini Cannoli Bites?
Absolutely! Store assembled Mini Cannoli Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the crust texture may soften over time. If you want to keep them extra fresh, consider storing the filling separately and assembling just before serving.
Can I freeze Mini Cannoli Bites?
Very! To freeze, it’s best to freeze the unbaked pie crust shells. Simply roll out your dough as directed, place them in your mini muffin tin, and freeze until fully frozen. Transfer the shells to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can be kept for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen, then fill as usual.
What should I do if my filling is watery?
Very! If you’ve ended up with a watery filling, it’s likely due to not straining the ricotta well enough. To fix it, place the ricotta in a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl and let it drain for at least 30 minutes. For the best results, you can even prepare it the day before to ensure all excess moisture is removed.
Are there any dietary considerations for Mini Cannoli Bites?
Of course! For those with dairy allergies, you can experiment with dairy-free ricotta or cream cheese alternatives, although the flavor might differ slightly. Always check ingredient labels for allergens, especially if serving to guests. As for pets, it’s best to keep these bites away from them due to the high sugar content and chocolate.
Mini Cannoli Bites: A Creamy Italian Delight Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the premade pie crust on a lightly floured surface and use a 2 ½ inch round cutter to create 12 rounds. Gently press each round into an ungreased mini muffin tin, making sure to push down the center to form a shell. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown, then let them cool in the tin for 15 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of strained whole milk ricotta cheese, ½ cup mascarpone cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Fold in ¼ cup of mini chocolate chips.
- Place the creamy filling in a zip-lock bag or a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Squeeze the bag gently to fill each pastry shell with the ricotta mixture.
- Sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top of each filled shell. Dust lightly with powdered sugar and consider adding chopped pistachios or a cherry on top for color.
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