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

Why Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is the Perfect Dessert for Young Professionals

If you're a young professional juggling work, social events, and maybe even a side hustle, dessert should be both indulgent and easy to whip up. Enter the Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie! This delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert combines the creamy goodness of cannoli filling with the convenience of a pie, making it a go-to treat for any occasion.

Not only does this pie taste heavenly, but it also offers a sense of nostalgia with its rich mascarpone cheese and mini chocolate chips that add a sweet surprise in every bite. Picture it: inviting friends over for a laid-back dinner and serving this pie as the spectacular finale. Everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!

From a quick prep time to a stunning presentation, this dessert ticks all the boxes. Plus, you can make it ahead of time—perfect for those busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. And if you mix in your favorite dessert coffee or a scoop of ice cream on the side, you’ll create a memorable experience that celebrates both flavor and friendship.

Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and make your own Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie!

Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Creating this delightful Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is all about picking the perfect ingredients. Let's break it down into two easy sections: the crust and the filling.

For the Crust

To start off, you’ll need:

2¼ cups vanilla wafer crumbs – roughly 60 wafers will do the trick, though you can also opt for graham cracker crumbs if you prefer.
¼ cup brown sugar – a bit of sweetness to complement the crust.
½ cup unsalted butter – make sure it's melted for that delicious richness.

These ingredients come together to form a buttery, crunchy base, perfect for holding all that creamy filling!

For the Filling

Now, onto the star of the show! For the luscious filling, gather:

1 cup mascarpone cheese – that’s one 8-ounce container.
½ cup confectioner’s sugar – for sweetness without the grit.
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract – pure is best for flavor depth.
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon – a subtle hint of warmth.
2-3 teaspoons lemon zest – zest from one lemon will brighten up the flavors.
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese – essential for that classic cannoli texture.
¾ cup heavy whipping cream – adding a smooth, luxurious element.
1⅓ cups mini chocolate chips, divided – because you can never have too much chocolate!

These wholesome ingredients blend beautifully to create a creamy and scrumptious filling that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!

Preparing Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Creating a delectable Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is easier than you might think! This delightful dessert combines the classic flavors of cannoli with a pie twist, making it perfect for any gathering. Below, I've broken down the steps to guide you through the process.

Step 1: Prepare the crust

First things first—let's whip up that crust! Preheat your oven to 350°F and grab a 9-inch pie dish. Spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your pie releases easily later. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2¼ cups of vanilla wafer crumbs, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are well coated.

Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of your prepared pie dish. Pro tip: A flat-bottomed glass works wonders for this step!

Step 2: Bake the crust

Time to bake! Place your crust in the preheated oven and let it bake for 10 minutes. The goal here is to achieve a delightful crispness. Once done, remove it from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Make the filling

Now for the star of the show—our cannoli filling. Using an electric mixer, whip 1 cup of mascarpone cheese with ½ cup of confectioner’s sugar until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in 1½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 2-3 teaspoon of lemon zest for that refreshing zing! Finally, mix in 1 cup of whole milk ricotta cheese until just combined.

In a separate bowl, whip ¾ cup of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes at medium speed. Gently fold in the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture, and then incorporate ⅔ cup of mini chocolate chips.

Step 4: Assemble the pie

Spread the heavenly filling evenly over your cooled crust, making sure to tuck it into the edges nicely. To top it off, sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of chocolate chips on top of the pie for that chocolatey finish.

Step 5: Chill and set the pie

Cover your pie with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though letting it chill overnight is ideal for a perfect set.

Once it’s ready, slice into this amazing Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, serve it up, and watch as everyone raves about your culinary prowess! Enjoy!

Variations on Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Seasonal Fruit Additions

Bring a fresh twist to your chocolate chip cannoli pie by incorporating seasonal fruits! Consider adding sliced strawberries, juicy peaches, or even tart raspberries to the filling for a delightful burst of flavor. Simply fold in the fruit gently before spreading the filling into the crust. Not only will this enhance the taste, but it also makes for a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for any gathering.

Gluten-Free Options

No need to miss out on this delicious dessert if you're gluten-intolerant! Simply swap out the vanilla wafer crumbs for gluten-free cookie crumbs or crushed almond flour cookies. This small change ensures that everyone can enjoy your chocolate chip cannoli pie. Additionally, check out gluten-free confectioner’s sugar to maintain a light and sweet finish.

Baking notes for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Tips for a flaky crust

To ensure a flaky crust for your chocolate chip cannoli pie, make sure your butter is cold when mixing it with the vanilla wafer crumbs and brown sugar. This helps create those delightful layers. Press the mixture firmly into the pie dish, but avoid overworking it to maintain its flakiness. If you prefer a touch of flavor, consider adding a dash of salt to the crumb mix for an extra depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the filling.

Storage tips for leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this delectable chocolate chip cannoli pie, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, allowing those flavors to deepen. For the best texture, avoid freezing the pie, as the cream filling may not hold up well after thawing. When serving leftovers, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for optimal creaminess. Enjoy each bite as if it were the first!

Serving suggestions for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

When it comes to enjoying your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie, think about pairing it with a comforting cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea. A well-brewed espresso complements the pie’s rich flavors beautifully, while a creamy chai latte offers a spiced balance. If you prefer tea, try a light green or peppermint tea for a refreshing contrast.

Presentation Ideas for Gatherings

For gatherings, presentation is key! Serve your Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie in elegant slices on a beautiful platter. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for an added burst of color. Consider using dessert plates and small forks for a sophisticated touch. You might even share a fun fact about the origins of cannoli to spark conversation. Keep it interactive and enjoy the sweet moments!

For more inspiration, check out these entertaining tips.

Time details for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Preparation time
This delightful chocolate chip cannoli pie takes about 20 minutes to prepare. That's just enough time to gather your ingredients and whip up that creamy filling!

Baking time
You’ll only need to bake the crust for about 10 minutes. A quick bake ensures it’s ready to hold that luscious filling.

Total time
After combining preparation and baking, the total time comes to 8 hours and 30 minutes, which includes essential refrigeration for the filling to set perfectly. Patience pays off in fantastic flavor!

If you're eager to dive deeper into the art of pie-making, check out this expert guide on pie crusts for tips!

Nutritional Information for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Understanding the nutritional aspects of your favorite dessert can be quite enlightening! Here’s a closer look at the chocolate chip cannoli pie:

Calories

Each slice offers approximately 567 calories, making it an indulgent treat for special occasions or a comforting evening dessert.

Protein

This pie packs in 7 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the delicious ingredients like ricotta and mascarpone. It’s a minor boost for a sweet that’s rich in flavor!

Sodium

With about 157 mg of sodium per slice, this delightful dessert is relatively moderate in salt content, making it a fabulous option for most diets.

For more insights on balancing indulgence with nutrition, you might consider visiting Nutrition.gov for expert advice. Knowing what’s in your food doesn't take the joy out of eating— it enhances it!

FAQs about Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! The chocolate chip cannoli pie is perfect for prep-ahead desserts. You can make the pie up to 48 hours in advance. Just follow the instructions, and once it's set, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to blend beautifully, making it even more delicious!

How can I adjust the sweetness?

If you prefer a less sweet filling, you can easily adjust the sweetness by reducing the amount of confectioner’s sugar. Start by cutting it down to ¼ cup and taste-testing as you go. You can also use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake—just ensure it’s a baking-friendly option.

What is the best way to store this pie?

To keep your chocolate chip cannoli pie fresh, always refrigerate it! Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain its texture. It should last up to five days in the fridge, but let’s be real—you’ll probably devour it long before then! For long-term storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. For tips on freezing desserts, check out this guide on food storage techniques.

Conclusion on Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie

This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Pie is the perfect blend of creamy ricotta and rich chocolate, bringing a delightful twist to a classic dessert. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or indulging on a quiet evening, it's bound to impress. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll surely be making it again!