This No-Bake Cannoli Pie takes all the classic flavors of a traditional cannoli and transforms them into an elegant and effortless dessert. With a velvety filling of ricotta and mascarpone, a touch of cinnamon, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips, this pie delivers richness and decadence in every bite. Perfectly paired with a buttery graham cracker crust, it’s the ultimate no-bake indulgence.
Ideal for hot summer days or when you need a quick yet stunning dessert, this pie is a true crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity doesn’t compromise its flavor, and the combination of creamy textures and crunchy garnishes makes it a favorite for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
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
About the No-Bake Cannoli Pie
The No-Bake Cannoli Pie is a modern twist on the classic Sicilian dessert, cannoli. It offers all the iconic flavors of traditional cannoli in an easy-to-make, chilled format. Combining rich ricotta and mascarpone cheeses, sweetened with powdered sugar and infused with cinnamon, this pie captures the essence of Italian baking without requiring an oven. The addition of mini chocolate chips provides the perfect balance of creaminess and crunch, while the graham cracker crust offers a buttery, slightly sweet foundation.
This dessert is ideal for busy days, special occasions, or whenever you need a fuss-free yet impressive sweet treat. It’s particularly suited for warmer weather, as it requires no baking and is best served chilled.
Why This Recipe is Unique
- No Baking Required: Perfect for summer or for those who prefer not to use an oven.
- Authentic Flavors: The ricotta and mascarpone cheeses deliver a creamy texture reminiscent of authentic cannoli.
- Quick to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
- Versatility: This pie is easily customizable. Add different toppings, adjust the sweetness, or experiment with alternative crusts to make it your own.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s a great option for parties or family gatherings since you can prepare it a day in advance.
History of Cannoli and How It Inspired the Pie
Cannoli originated in Sicily and were traditionally made for festive occasions like weddings or Carnivale. The dessert consists of fried pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cream, often accented with candied fruit, pistachios, or chocolate chips. The name “cannolo” means “little tube” in Italian, referring to the shape of the pastry.
The No-Bake Cannoli Pie takes these flavors and simplifies the preparation. Instead of rolling and frying shells, the creamy filling is set in a graham cracker crust, making it more accessible while still honoring the flavors of the original.
Tips for Perfecting Your No-Bake Cannoli Pie
- Use High-Quality Ingredients:
- Opt for whole-milk ricotta and mascarpone cheeses for a richer, creamier texture.
- Drain the ricotta using a fine mesh strainer for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure the filling isn’t watery.
- Chill Properly:
- Let the pie chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This ensures the filling sets properly and the flavors meld together.
- Customize the Crust:
- While a graham cracker crust is classic, you can use an Oreo crust for a chocolaty twist, or a biscotti crust for a more authentic Italian flavor.
- Enhance the Garnish:
- Top with crushed cannoli shells, chopped pistachios, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for added texture and flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for a finishing touch.
Variations to Try
- Citrus Twist: Add orange or lemon zest to the filling for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped pistachios or hazelnuts for a nutty crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in dark chocolate shavings or a swirl of Nutella for an extra indulgent twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust to accommodate dietary needs.
- Mini Pies: Divide the filling into individual tart shells or ramekins for single-serving portions.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the pie chilled, straight from the refrigerator, for the best texture and flavor.
- Pair it with an espresso, cappuccino, or a glass of sweet Moscato wine for a true Italian dessert experience.
- Add fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, on the side to balance the richness of the pie.
What Makes the No-Bake Cannoli Pie Special?
The No-Bake Cannoli Pie is a celebration of flavor and simplicity. It combines the essence of a classic cannoli—creamy ricotta, rich mascarpone, chocolate, and cinnamon—with the ease of a no-bake dessert. Unlike traditional cannoli that require frying shells, this recipe simplifies the process by using a ready-made graham cracker crust, making it accessible to home bakers of all skill levels.
This dessert captures the charm of Italian cuisine, offering a decadent yet balanced flavor profile with the creamy filling, a touch of spice, and bursts of sweetness from chocolate chips. It’s a show-stopper for gatherings, ideal for entertaining without spending hours in the kitchen.
Pro Tips for a Perfect No-Bake Cannoli Pie
- Draining the Ricotta:
- Ricotta cheese often contains excess moisture. To avoid a runny filling, drain the ricotta in a fine mesh strainer for at least 30 minutes before mixing it with the mascarpone.
- For an ultra-smooth filling, consider blending the ricotta until creamy before combining it with the other ingredients.
- Whipping the Cream Properly:
- Whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks ensures the filling has a light and airy texture. Fold it gently into the cheese mixture to maintain the fluffiness.
- Chilling for Perfection:
- The pie needs at least 4 hours of chilling time to set properly. Overnight chilling is even better, as it enhances the flavors and ensures a firm, sliceable texture.
- Customizable Toppings:
- Get creative with garnishes. Beyond mini chocolate chips, you can use crushed cannoli shells, chopped pistachios, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Creative Variations
- Nutty Pistachio Cannoli Pie:
- Add chopped pistachios to the filling or as a topping for a Sicilian-inspired twist.
- Citrus-Infused Pie:
- Mix in orange zest or lemon zest for a refreshing, zesty flavor. This pairs beautifully with the richness of the mascarpone.
- Chocolate Lover’s Delight:
- Use an Oreo cookie crust and add dark chocolate shavings or a swirl of chocolate-hazelnut spread to the filling for an indulgent dessert.
- Gluten-Free Alternative:
- Replace the graham cracker crust with a gluten-free option to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Mini Cannoli Pies:
- Divide the filling into small tart shells or ramekins for individual servings. Perfect for parties or portion control!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the pie chilled, garnished with extra chocolate chips or powdered sugar.
- Pair it with coffee, such as espresso or cappuccino, for a classic Italian pairing.
- For a more indulgent experience, serve with a side of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
- Easy Preparation: With no baking required, this dessert is foolproof, even for beginners.
- Sophisticated Flavors: It combines creamy textures, sweet and spiced flavors, and a hint of chocolate for a dessert that feels gourmet.
- Customizable: Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this pie is highly adaptable to personal tastes.
- Great for Any Occasion: It’s elegant enough for holidays and parties but simple enough for a weeknight treat.
FAQ About No-Bake Cannoli Pie
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie is best when made ahead and chilled for at least 4 hours or overnight. It allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set perfectly.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid adding crunchy toppings until just before serving to maintain their texture.
Q: Can I make this pie lighter?
Yes! You can use part-skim ricotta cheese and mascarpone or replace part of the mascarpone with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just ensure the consistency remains thick and creamy.
A Brief History of Cannoli
Cannoli originated in Sicily and were traditionally made during celebrations like weddings or Carnivale. The name “cannolo” means “little tube,” referring to the shape of the pastry shell. Over time, this dessert has gained worldwide popularity, and modern variations like the No-Bake Cannoli Pie allow people to enjoy the classic flavors in a simplified format.
The combination of ricotta cheese, chocolate, and a hint of cinnamon pays homage to the traditional cannoli, while the graham cracker crust gives it an Americanized twist.
Pairing Ideas for No-Bake Cannoli Pie
- Beverages:
- A rich espresso, cappuccino, or Americano balances the sweetness of the pie.
- Sweet wines like Moscato d’Asti or Vin Santo pair beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Side Additions:
- Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, provide a refreshing contrast to the rich filling.
- A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Conclusion
The No-Bake Cannoli Pie is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy the rich flavors of classic Italian desserts. Its creamy ricotta and mascarpone filling, combined with a buttery graham cracker crust and sweet chocolate chips, makes it perfect for any occasion.
Effortless to prepare and endlessly customizable, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Whether you enjoy it as-is or add your own twist, it’s a stress-free, delicious treat that brings the charm of traditional cannoli to your table.