If you have ever craved the irresistible marriage of creamy filling and crunchy crust but with a delightful twist, then this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine that luscious ricotta and mascarpone blend, perfectly sweetened with powdered sugar and kissed with a hint of cinnamon and fresh orange zest, dotted generously with mini chocolate chips, all nestled in a crisp golden pie crust. This pie captures the spirit of traditional cannolis but with a fresh, fun presentation that’s surprisingly easy to pull together. Trust me, once you try this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe, it will become your go-to dessert for gatherings or a special treat just for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a distinct role, from the creamy, rich mascarpone and ricotta that form the filling’s heart, to the zing of orange zest and warmth of cinnamon adding depth, finishing with mini chocolate chips that provide delightful bursts of sweetness. And of course, that perfectly flaky pie crust is the essential foundation every great pie deserves.
- Pie crust (1 pre-made): Saves time while giving you a buttery, crisp base that balances the creamy filling.
- Ricotta cheese (15 ounces, drained): Adds a light, slightly grainy texture and mild sweetness, essential for authentic cannoli flavor.
- Mascarpone cheese (8 ounces): Brings velvety smooth richness, creating the perfect luscious filling.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup, sifted): Sweetens the filling without any grittiness, keeping the texture silky.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the creaminess with warm, aromatic notes.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Gives a subtle spicy warmth that complements the sweet and tangy flavors.
- Mini chocolate chips (1 cup, plus extra for garnish): Tiny bursts of chocolate throughout that surprise with every bite.
- Orange zest (from 1 orange): Adds fresh citrus brightness, balancing the richness beautifully.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Pie Crust
Start by readying your pre-made pie crust according to the package instructions or use your favorite homemade version. This step is crucial for ensuring your crust is perfectly crisp. Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes until it turns a lovely golden brown. After baking, let it cool completely so the filling doesn’t melt it and your pie stays fresh and firm.
Step 2: Whip the Creamy Filling
While the crust cools, combine the drained ricotta and mascarpone cheeses in a mixing bowl. Add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon if you’re using it. Blend until you get a smooth and luscious mixture without any lumps—it should feel dreamy and rich, like the filling you crave in classic cannoli.
Step 3: Add in the Flavorful Mix-ins
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and freshly grated orange zest. This step is where your pie starts to come alive with little pockets of chocolate and bursts of citrus. Make sure the chips and zest are evenly distributed, so every slice gets that perfect balance of flavors.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour your beautifully mixed filling into the cooled pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top for a clean, inviting finish. This is the moment when your pie really begins to take shape—creamy, smooth, and studded with chocolate chips just waiting to be enjoyed.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Cover your pie and pop it into the refrigerator for at least two hours. This resting time is essential because it allows the filling to firm up, making the pie slice perfectly without losing its creamy texture. Plus, chilling helps the flavors meld together into something unforgettable.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips on top to add texture and visual appeal. Now your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe is ready to charm everyone fortunate enough to take a bite!
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your pie, feel free to add a dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves. The powdered sugar gives a delicate sweetness and pretty finish, while mint adds a refreshing contrast that brightens each creamy mouthful.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small serving of fresh berries. The cool creaminess of the ice cream complements the rich pie, and berries add a juicy tartness that balances the chocolate and citrus perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, consider slicing your pie into small bites and serving them on mini dessert plates or in clear cups layered with whipped cream. You can even drizzle a little chocolate sauce or sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for a gourmet touch that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your pie has been served, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as the pie rests, so don’t hesitate to save some for later indulgence.
Freezing
If you want to keep your pie longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. When properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing its fantastic texture or flavor.
Reheating
Since this pie is best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not recommended. Simply allow frozen slices to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for optimal taste and texture. Serve cold to enjoy that creamy, refreshing experience that makes this Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe so delightful.
FAQs
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! While using a pre-made crust saves time, making your own from scratch adds a personal touch. Just ensure it is blind-baked until golden and cooled completely before adding the filling.
What if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?
You can substitute mascarpone with an equal amount of cream cheese softened to room temperature, though the flavor will be slightly different—less sweet and a bit tangier, but still delicious.
Is the orange zest really necessary?
The orange zest adds a wonderful brightness and subtle citrus flavor that balances the richness of the filling. If you don’t have fresh oranges, you can omit it, but your pie will miss that unique pop of freshness.
Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips instead of mini?
You can, but mini chocolate chips distribute more evenly and melt just right, giving you little bursts of chocolate without overpowering the texture. Regular chips may cause the filling to be less smooth.
How long can I refrigerate the pie before serving?
It’s best to refrigerate the pie for at least two hours for proper setting. You can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance, which makes it a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and special occasions.
Final Thoughts
The Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe is truly a celebration of flavors and textures that is as easy to make as it is to love. It brings the charm of a classic Italian dessert into a pie format that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Next time you want to impress without stress, this pie is your new best friend in the kitchen. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a staple on your dessert table!
Print
Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 32 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A delightful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie that combines a flaky pre-baked pie crust with a creamy ricotta and mascarpone filling, enhanced with mini chocolate chips and a hint of orange zest. This no-bake dessert is chilled to set, perfect for a refreshing treat with the classic flavors of cannoli in pie form.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Filling
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese, drained
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips (plus extra for garnish)
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Prepare the pie crust according to package instructions or your preferred homemade recipe to ensure it is ready for baking.
- Bake the crust: Place the pie crust in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until the crust turns golden brown. Allow it to cool completely before filling.
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until the texture is smooth and creamy.
- Add chocolate chips and zest: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and the orange zest into the creamy mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Fill the crust: Pour the prepared filling into the cooled pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly for an attractive finish.
- Chill the pie: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or a pie cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set firmly.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish the top with additional mini chocolate chips to enhance the presentation and provide extra chocolate bursts. Serve the pie chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese well to avoid a watery filling.
- For a stronger orange flavor, add a tablespoon of orange liqueur to the filling.
- Use mini chocolate chips for better distribution and texture in the filling.
- This pie should be kept refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 days for freshness.
- You can substitute the pre-made pie crust with a homemade graham cracker or cookie crust for a different flavor profile.
