Name: Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 510 min
Ingredients: 2.25 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (~60 vanilla wafers, can use graham cracker crumbs instead); 0.25 cups brown sugar; 0.5 cups unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup mascarpone cheese (i.e. 1 8-oz. container); 0.5 cups confectioner’s sugar; 1.5 tsp vanilla extract; 0.25 tsp ground cinnamon; 2-3 tsp lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon); 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese; 0.75 cups heavy whipping cream; 1.33 cups mini chocolate chips (divided)

Introduction to Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that combines indulgence and nostalgia, look no further than this chocolate chip cannoli pie. With its luscious, creamy filling and a delightful crust, it perfectly marries classic Italian flavors with modern flair. Imagine serving this pie at your next gathering; the delighted expressions on your guests' faces will say it all.

Why is this dessert so special? For starters, it’s versatile. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself on a weekday, this pie fits any occasion. Its creamy mascarpone and ricotta filling offers that distinct cannoli experience, while the mini chocolate chips add an irresistible touch of sweetness.

Additionally, the no-fuss preparation makes it accessible—even for those who don't consider themselves baking experts. Just imagine: in about 30 minutes of prep time, plus some refrigeration to allow the flavors to meld, you can create a dessert that will be the highlight of any meal. Plus, if you’re on the lookout for dessert inspiration, check out The Kitchn for more delightful ideas that wow your palate.

Get ready to indulge in a piece of this chocolate chip cannoli pie, and don’t be surprised when guests ask for seconds!

Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

When it comes to crafting a delectable Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, the right ingredients make all the difference! Here’s a handy breakdown of what you’ll need to elevate your dessert game.

For the Crust

2¼ cups vanilla wafer crumbs (approximately 60 vanilla wafers; feel free to substitute with graham cracker crumbs for a different flavor profile)
¼ cup brown sugar to add sweetness and a hint of molasses
½ cup unsalted butter, melted, which gives the crust that yummy, rich taste

Creating the crust is super simple—just mix these ingredients and press them firmly into your pie dish for a base that balances perfectly with the creamy filling.

For the Filling

1 cup mascarpone cheese (that’s one 8-oz. container; it’s key for that creamy texture)
½ cup confectioner’s sugar for a touch of sweetness that blends seamlessly
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract to enhance the flavors
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, adding a warm spice
2-3 teaspoons lemon zest (about the zest of one lemon) for a bright citrus punch
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese, which is essential for that classic cannoli texture
¾ cup heavy whipping cream whipped to fluffy perfection
1⅓ cups mini chocolate chips, divided for maximum chocolatey goodness

With these delightful ingredients on hand, you're well on your way to impressing friends and family with your homemade Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie!

Preparing Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

If you've ever indulged in a traditional cannoli and thought, "This would be even better as a pie," then you're in for a treat! Making a Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is delightful and surprisingly straightforward. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure your pie turns out as amazing as it sounds.

Prepare the crust mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, prepare a 9-inch pie dish by spraying it with a bit of nonstick cooking spray. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2¼ cups of vanilla wafer crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs if that’s what you have), along with ¼ cup of brown sugar and ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until everything is well combined. To create a nice, even crust, firmly press this mixture into the bottom and sides of your prepared pan. A flat-bottomed glass is perfect for this task, so you can get it just right!

Bake the crust

Now that your crust mixture is ready, it’s time to bake! Pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes, until it turns a light golden brown. Once baked, remove the pan and let it cool on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature. This cooling step is crucial—it ensures your chocolate chip cannoli pie holds its shape beautifully when filled.

Create the filling mixture

Moving on to our creamy filling, grab your electric mixer and whip together 1 cup of mascarpone cheese and ½ cup of confectioner’s sugar. Beat this for 2-3 minutes until it’s completely smooth. Next, add in 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and the zest of one lemon (about 2-3 teaspoons). Finally, mix in 1 cup of whole milk ricotta cheese until just combined.

Fold the whipped cream into the filling

In a separate bowl, whip ¾ cup of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. Fold one-third of this whipped cream into your ricotta mixture first to lighten it up. Then, gently fold in the remaining whipped cream and ⅔ cup of mini chocolate chips, using a rubber spatula for a smooth finish.

Assemble the pie

Spread your creamy filling evenly into the cooled crust, and don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top for that extra touch of sweetness. It’s looking good already!

Chill before serving

The final step? Cover your chocolate chip cannoli pie with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. It needs to chill for at least 4 hours, but letting it set overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives you a pie that's not only tasty but also sturdy enough to slice easily.

There you have it—a delectable Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie that will impress your friends and family alike. Dive in and enjoy the symphony of flavors and textures that this dessert brings to the table!

Variations on Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

When it comes to chocolate chip cannoli pie, the sky's the limit for delicious variations. Here are a couple of delightful alternatives to consider:

Nutty Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Add an irresistible crunch to your cannoli pie by incorporating chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the filling or sprinkling them on top. Not only do they enhance the flavor, but they also introduce a satisfying texture that perfectly compliments the creaminess of the filling. You can even substitute part of the vanilla wafer crumbs with crushed nuts for a unique crust.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

For a gluten-free twist, swap out vanilla wafer crumbs for gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients, especially the mini chocolate chips, are gluten-free as well. This variation remains just as rich and creamy while accommodating those with dietary restrictions, proving that delicious desserts can be enjoyed by everyone.

Explore these variations and make your chocolate chip cannoli pie a personal masterpiece!

Cooking Notes for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Tips for Making the Perfect Crust

To achieve a crisp and buttery crust for your chocolate chip cannoli pie, use finely crushed vanilla wafer crumbs for optimal texture. Make sure to pack the crust tightly into the pie dish; a flat-bottomed glass can help you press it evenly. For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the crumb mixture. After baking, let it cool completely to ensure it holds up when you add the filling.

Best Practices for the Filling

Creating a luscious and rich filling is key to a stunning chocolate chip cannoli pie. Start with room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture. Whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks and folding it gently into the cheese mixture will give your filling a light texture. Don’t forget the lemon zest; it brightens the flavor beautifully! Lastly, refrigerate the pie for at least eight hours to enhance the flavors and help the filling set perfectly.

Serving suggestions for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Pairing ideas

When indulging in your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, consider these delightful pairings to elevate the experience:

Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries for a tart contrast.
Espresso: A nice cup of espresso complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra decadence.
Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea offers a refreshing balance to the sweetness.

Creative serving styles

To impress guests, get creative with how you serve your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie:

Mini Pies: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings—perfect for parties!
Dessert Jars: Layer pie filling and crust in mason jars for a portable treat.
Garnishes: Top with chocolate shavings or toasted nuts for added texture and elegance.

Try these tips, and watch your dessert table come to life! For additional serving ideas, check out resources from Epicurious or Bon Appétit.

Time details for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Preparation time
Getting started with your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is quick and straightforward. You’ll just need about 20 minutes to whip up the crust and filling. It’s perfect for when you have guests coming over and want to impress them!

Cooking time
Bake your crust for a brief 10 minutes. This step is essential for that perfect crunch, so don’t skip it!

Total time
From prep to serving, allow for a total of about 8 hours and 30 minutes. Most of this is just refrigeration time, giving it that creamy set we love. Perfect for planning a stress-free dessert!

For more insights on baking times, you can refer to this guide on baking basics.

Nutritional Information for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

When indulging in a slice of Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, it's good to know what you're savoring! Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional information:

Calories

Each slice of this delightful pie contains approximately 567 calories. Perfect for a special treat or celebratory occasion!

Sugar Content

With about 35 grams of sugar per slice, this dessert is sweet enough to satisfy your cravings without going overboard.

Protein

You’ll also get around 7 grams of protein from the rich blend of mascarpone and ricotta cheeses. It's a little boost to enjoy alongside your sweetness!

Now, while this pie is undeniably delicious, it's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For more health insights, check out trusted sources like Healthline or Mayo Clinic. Happy baking!

FAQs about Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! The chocolate chip cannoli pie is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the pie a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge overnight. This will not only save you time but also enhance the flavors as they meld together.

How do I store leftovers?

To store any leftovers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep them in the refrigerator. The chocolate chip cannoli pie will stay fresh for up to three days. Just be sure to handle it gently when serving, as the filling can be delicate.

What can I substitute for mascarpone?

If you can't find mascarpone, don't worry! You can create a creamy alternative by blending cream cheese with a bit of sour cream or heavy cream. This will give you a similar texture and flavor for your chocolate chip cannoli pie. Alternatively, ricotta cheese mixed with a splash of heavy cream works well too.

For more tips and variations, you might want to check out resources like Serious Eats for additional inspiration.

Conclusion on Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

In summary, this delightful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is an impressive dessert that combines rich flavors and textures for a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s easy to prepare and equally satisfying. Don’t forget to share your dessert with friends and family!