Cannoli Cream Pie Dream

When you are craving the nostalgic sweetness of classic cannoli but want something fuss-free this cannoli cream pie becomes your go to treat It brings together everything you love about the iconic Italian dessert and transforms it into a silky no bake pie with only a handful of ingredients and hardly any work

The first time I made this pie for a Sunday lunch it vanished before dinner I love how it presses pause on a busy day and brings everyone together for just one more slice

Ingredients

• Graham cracker pie crust: The buttery base holds everything together and saves so much time Always check for a sturdy shell with no cracks
• Ricotta cheese: Delivers creaminess and that unmistakable cannoli flavor Opt for whole milk ricotta and if possible drain it a bit for the thickest filling
• Mascarpone or cream cheese: Whichever you choose makes the pie incredibly silky Use mascarpone for a sweeter spin or cream cheese for more tang
• Powdered sugar: This sweetens the filling beautifully and blends smoothly Double sift if you want a super smooth texture
• Vanilla extract: For warmth and depth Always reach for real vanilla if you can
• Cinnamon (optional): Adds a whisper of spice Use a fresh fragrant ground cinnamon for the best result
• Mini chocolate chips: The pops of chocolate are classic in cannoli filling Always check for mini size so you get plenty in every bite
• Whipped topping for garnish (optional): This creamy cloud brings a festive finish to each slice Go for stabilized whipped topping if you want it to hold up longer

Step by Step Instructions

Mix the filling:

Combine ricotta cheese mascarpone or cream cheese powdered sugar vanilla and cinnamon in a large bowl Beat everything together on medium speed until it is fluffy smooth and completely blended If your filling is grainy keep beating for a minute longer to make it creamy

Fold in the chocolate chips:

Add one cup of mini chocolate chips to the bowl Use a spatula to gently fold them in so you keep as much air in the filling as possible This makes the pie light

Fill the crust:

Transfer the creamy filling to your graham cracker pie shell Spread evenly all the way to the edges Using an offset spatula helps but you can use the back of a spoon to smooth out the top

Finish with chocolate chips:

Scatter the remaining mini chocolate chips all over the top of the pie This adds a crisp chocolatey bite with every forkful

Chill to set:

Place the pie in your refrigerator uncovered for at least four hours or up to overnight You want the filling to firm up before slicing The longer the pie chills the cleaner your slices

Serve and garnish:

Slice the pie using a sharp knife Wipe the blade between slices for clean edges Top with a swirl of whipped topping for a beautiful finish Serve cold and enjoy every creamy bite

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My favorite part of this pie is folding in the chocolate chips because I know it means every bite will be packed with classic cannoli flavor Growing up my mom joked that the first sprinkle was always for taste testing and that tradition still makes me smile

Storage Tips

Store the pie covered in the fridge for up to four days A snap on pie lid or plastic wrap works best For longer keeping slice and freeze pieces individually then thaw in the fridge for a quick treat

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have mascarpone use regular cream cheese or even Neufchâtel cheese for a little less richness For a gluten free version swap in a gluten free graham crust Add orange zest or swap half the chocolate chips for chopped pistachios if you want a brighter Italian bakery vibe

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Serving Suggestions

This pie is stunning with a dusting of extra powdered sugar and a cherry on top For parties I cut it into bite size bars so guests can grab and mingle Pair with espresso or a little limoncello for a full Italian dessert spread

Cultural Notes

Cannoli originated in Sicily as a symbol of celebration marrying creamy filling and crisp shell into something unforgettable This pie echoes those traditions minus the fryer Every spoonful feels like a treat from a bustling Italian bakery

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use only mascarpone or cream cheese?

Yes, you can use either mascarpone or cream cheese exclusively, though mascarpone lends a classic cannoli flavor while cream cheese provides extra tang and stability. Both work well in creating a smooth, creamy filling.

→ How long does the filling need to chill?

The pie filling needs to chill for at least 4 hours to set properly, but overnight chilling is best for a firm, sliceable texture.

→ Can I make this dessert in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare and chill the pie a day ahead for gatherings or events. The flavors will meld nicely, and the filling holds up well in the fridge.

→ Can nuts or other toppings be added?

Chopped pistachios or toasted almonds make excellent additions sprinkled on top before serving. You can also add a dusting of cocoa powder for extra flair.

→ Is there a substitute for graham cracker crust?

Try a chocolate cookie crust or vanilla wafer crust for a different twist. Both offer delicious bases for the creamy filling.