The satisfying snap of a crisp shell meeting sweet, creamy richness is the hallmark of a great Italian dessert. These Cannoli Bites deliver that exact experience in an adorable, easy-to-serve format without the mess of deep-frying. I love making them because they capture the essence of a traditional cannoli but look much more inviting on a party platter.
Why You'll Love This
These little cups are the ultimate solution for entertaining, offering a "grab-and-go" version of a classic. The Cannoli Bites shells bake up golden and crunchy in a mini muffin tin, creating a sturdy vessel for the lush filling. They serve perfectly as Finger Desserts For Parties where guests can enjoy a sweet treat without needing a fork or plate. The combination of cinnamon-spiced pastry and smooth Mascarpone-Ricotta cream feels sophisticated yet comforting.
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What Goes Into This Recipe
You'll need a few specific pantry items to get that authentic flavor, but the process is surprisingly manageable. This Homemade Cannoli inspired recipe uses a food processor to make the dough preparation quick and foolproof.
Scroll to the recipe card for ingredients and step-by-step directions.
Main Ingredients
- Ricotta & Mascarpone: The dual-cheese blend creates a filling that is both stable and incredibly creamy.
- Marsala or Juice: Apple or grape juice provides the acidity and moisture needed for the dough bubbles.
- Cocoa Powder & Cinnamon: Essential for giving the shells their signature speckled color and warm spice.
- White Wine Vinegar: Reacts during baking to help the pastry blister and crisp up.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Adds texture and the classic chocolate finish to every bite.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for the structured, crisp pastry cups.
Optional Extras
For a nutty crunch, dip the rims of the baked shells in melted chocolate and crushed pistachios before filling. You can also zest a little orange into the cream filling to brighten up these Mini Cannoli Cups with citrus notes.
How to Make Cannoli Bites (Step-by-Step)
This method skips the deep fryer for an oven-baked shell that is just as satisfying.
Create the Dough
Pulse the dry ingredients in a food processor, then blend in the melted butter, egg white, juice, and vinegar. The mixture should transition from crumbly to a cohesive ball that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Chill and Relax
Divide the dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out thin for a delicate Cannoli Shell Recipe texture.
Shape and Bake
Roll the dough thin, cut into circles, and press them into a mini muffin tin. Bake until the cups are bubbly and golden brown, ensuring a crisp snap when bitten.
Whip the Filling
Blend the strained Ricotta and Mascarpone until smooth, then fold in powdered sugar.
How do I stop my filling from being runny? Strain the Ricotta cheese overnight or for at least 30 minutes to remove excess whey before mixing.
Assemble the Bites
Pipe the sweet cheese mixture into the cooled cups and top generously with mini chocolate chips. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between the crunchy shell and soft filling.
Aliana's Top Tip
For the best Cannoli Bites, strain your ricotta cheese thoroughly; I often wrap it in cheesecloth and place a heavy can on top.
Spray oil → helps browning → mimics fried texture
Strain cheese → removes moisture → filling stays thick
Chill dough → relaxes gluten → prevents shrinking
Roll thin → ensures crispness → avoids chewy cups
Fill later → keeps shell crunchy → Easy Mini Cannoli Recipe stays fresh
Follow Aliana on Pinterest →Make It Your Own
You can swap the chocolate chips for candied orange peel if you prefer a traditional citrus profile. For Cannoli Dessert Ideas that lean nuttier, fold chopped toasted hazelnuts directly into the cream. If you don't have time for homemade shells, you can use pre-made phyllo tart shells for an even faster shortcut.
Storage & Reheating
These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can bake the shells a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The filling can be made ahead and kept in the fridge. Assemble these Dessert Bites For Party platters no more than 2 hours before serving to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange these bites on a tiered stand dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. They pair beautifully with strong espresso or a small glass of dessert wine. These Italian Recipes For A Crowd are always the first to disappear at holiday gatherings.
Common Questions
Can I use just Ricotta cheese?
You can, but adding Mascarpone makes the filling richer and less grainy. If using only Ricotta, ensure it is extremely well-drained.
Can I freeze the baked shells?
Yes, the baked, unfilled shells freeze well for up to a month. Thaw them at room temperature and crisp them up in the oven for a few minutes if needed.
Do I have to use wine vinegar?
The acid is necessary for the texture, but you can substitute plain white vinegar or even lemon juice in a pinch.
Why did my shells puff up too much?
If the dough wasn't docked or pressed firmly, it might puff at the bottom. You can gently press the centers down with a spoon immediately after taking them out of the oven.
More Recipes You'll Love
Dessert If you enjoyed these Cannoli Bites, you might also like these Italian-inspired treats.
Whipped this up already? Show it off on Pinterest @AlianaRecipes - your version might inspire someone!
Cannoli Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pulse flour, sugar, cocoa, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a food processor, then add melted butter and egg white until blended.
- Combine juice and vinegar, then slowly pour into the processor while pulsing just until the dough begins to come together.
- Divide dough into two balls, chill in a resealable bag for 30-60 minutes, and preheat oven to 400°F during the last 10 minutes.
- Roll chilled dough to ⅛-inch thickness, cut into 2 ½-inch circles, and press into an ungreased mini muffin tin.
- Spray tops with vegetable oil and bake for 11-13 minutes until lightly golden and crisp, then cool completely on a wire rack.
- Blend ricotta and Mascarpone until smooth, fold in powdered sugar, and pipe into cooled cups; top with chocolate chips.
Nutrition
Notes
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Baked Cannoli Bites Recipe:
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