Cannoli Pie Recipe
This Cannoli Pie Recipe delivers all the flavors of a classic Italian cannoli in a simple, no-bake pie. Made with creamy ricotta, cream cheese, mini chocolate chips, and pistachios in a buttery graham cracker crust, it is the perfect make-ahead dessert for any occasion.
8 Servings
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 9-inch prepared graham cracker crust
For the Cannoli Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup confectioner's sugar
- 1 ½ cups full-fat ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup chopped lightly salted pistachios
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips plus extra for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). If using a store-bought graham cracker crust, this step is optional.
- Place the graham cracker crust on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant. This enhances the flavor and helps the crust hold its shape. Allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
Whip the Cream
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This process will create a light and airy texture in the filling. Set aside.
Prepare the Cannoli Filling
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and confectioner’s sugar together until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps for a uniform texture.
- Fold in the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and kosher salt, stirring gently until fully incorporated.
Combine the Components
- Carefully fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture, ensuring not to deflate the air incorporated during whipping. The goal is to maintain a light, creamy consistency.
- Once the mixture is fully combined, fold in the chopped pistachios and mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the filling.
Assemble the Pie
- Pour the prepared filling into the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- For additional texture and decoration, sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips over the top.
Chill and Serve
- Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, preferably overnight. Chilling allows the filling to firm up, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavors.
- Once properly set, slice and serve chilled.
Notes
To adapt this Cannoli Pie Recipe for a gluten-free diet, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the graham cracker crust with a gluten-free graham cracker crust or use crushed gluten-free cookies as a base.
- Ensure that the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips are certified gluten-free.
- The remaining ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.