Philly-Style Cannoli Dip with Chocolate Chips and Ricotta

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Inspired by Philadelphia’s famous cannoli, this creamy ricotta dip blends sweetened ricotta and mascarpone with mini chocolate chips for a luscious dessert dip. This mediterranean-inspired desserts ready in about 10 minutes layers ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 310 calories and feeds 6, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Serves 6 Mediterranean cuisine 310 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, and 1 cup powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp cinnamon, mixing just until combined and fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips carefully to distribute evenly without breaking them.
  4. Step 4: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and sprinkle 1/4 cup toasted chopped pistachios on top if using for added texture.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately with waffle cones or graham crackers for dipping, or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld and dip thicken slightly.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Philly-Style Cannoli Dip with Chocolate Chips and Ricotta take to make?

Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Philly-Style Cannoli Dip with Chocolate Chips and Ricotta?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Philly-Style Cannoli Dip with Chocolate Chips and Ricotta?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Philly-Style Cannoli Dip with Chocolate Chips and Ricotta for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Philly-Style Cannoli Dip with Chocolate Chips and Ricotta?

Mediterranean desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.