Mini Cannoli Bites: Irresistible Creamy Dessert Delights

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s a certain joy that fills the air when dessert time rolls around, especially when it s something as delightful as Mini Cannoli Bites. Imagine just unrolling a premade pie crust, filling it with a creamy blend of ricotta and mascarpone, and watching friends and family light up as they take their first bite. These little treats capture all the rich flavors of traditional cannoli while presenting them in an adorable, bite-sized format that even the busiest of hosts can whip up in no time.

I discovered this gem during a recent get-together when I was looking to impress without diluting my time in the kitchen. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and the ability to be made ahead, these bites are perfect for any occasion whether it s a festive gathering or simply indulging in some self-care with a sweet treat at home. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why are Mini Cannoli Bites a Must-Try?

Irresistible flavor: The creamy filling of ricotta and mascarpone melds with the crispy pie crust for a delightful explosion of taste.
Effortless prep: With just a few simple steps, you can create these charming desserts without the stress of traditional baking.
Perfect portion: Each bite-sized treat offers just the right amount of sweetness, making them a hit at parties or as an everyday indulgence.
Make-ahead goodness: Prepare the filling in advance and fill the shells just before serving, ensuring freshness while saving you time.
Versatile toppings: Get creative with garnishes like mini chocolate chips or nuts, adding a personal touch to each delectable bite.

Explore your culinary creativity and enjoy the delightful experience of these Mini Cannoli Bites at your next gathering!

Mini Cannoli Bites Ingredients

Get ready to dive into the delightful world of creamy indulgence with these Mini Cannoli Bites!

For the Shells

• Premade Pie Crust Using store-bought saves time, but homemade can elevate flavor.

For the Creamy Filling

• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese Strain this for a thick, luscious texture in your filling.
• Mascarpone Cheese This creamy ingredient adds richness, reminiscent of traditional cannoli.
• Powdered Sugar Adjust sweetness according to your taste; it s crucial for the perfect filling.
• Vanilla Extract A dash enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth.
• Mini Chocolate Chips Optional, but they provide delightful bursts of chocolate goodness!

Feel free to explore creativity with toppings to make your Mini Cannoli Bites even more irresistible!

How to Make Mini Cannoli Bites

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400 °F (200 °C) to ensure a beautifully baked crust. This initial step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy shell.

2. Prepare Pie Crust: Unroll the premade pie crust on a clean surface and use a round cutter to cut out 2 ½-inch rounds. Gently press each round into an ungreased mini muffin tin, ensuring it s snug.

3. Bake: Place the mini muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Once done, allow the shells to cool completely on a wire rack for about 15 minutes.

4. Make Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the strained ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips. Mix until everything is perfectly integrated and creamy, which will be amazing in each bite!

5. Fill Shells: Using a piping bag, carefully fill each cooled shell with the creamy mixture. This step allows for a beautiful presentation. For a finishing touch, garnish with extra mini chocolate chips and a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Optional: Enjoy these bites with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra layer of indulgence!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Mini Cannoli Bites

• Room Temperature: Mini Cannoli Bites are best enjoyed fresh. If you must keep them at room temperature, consume within 2 hours to maintain crunchiness.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the filling fresh while ensuring the crispy shells last a bit longer.

• Freezer: You can freeze the shells separately for up to 2 months. Just be sure they are completely cooled before storing them in a freezer-safe bag.

• Reheating: If stored in the fridge, allow Mini Cannoli Bites to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving, or enjoy them chilled for a refreshing treat!

Expert Tips for Mini Cannoli Bites

• Strain Ricotta: To avoid a watery filling, make sure you strain the whole milk ricotta well before mixing it into the creamy blend.

• Piping Perfection: Use a star piping tip for the filling; it not only looks stunning but also adds a touch of elegance to your Mini Cannoli Bites.

• Avoid Sogginess: To keep the shells crispy, fill them just before serving. The longer they sit filled, the soggier they may become.

• Customize Sweetness: Taste your filling before piping it into the shells; you can adjust the powdered sugar based on your personal preference for sweetness.

• Creative Garnishing: Get adventurous with toppings like crushed pistachios or a drizzle of caramel, giving each Mini Cannoli Bite a unique twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Mini Cannoli Bites are perfect for busy home cooks who love the convenience of meal prep! You can prepare the creamy filling up to 3 days ahead of time; simply mix the strained ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, and mini chocolate chips in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, all the flavors can meld beautifully. When you re ready to serve, fill the cooled pie crust shells just before presenting them to ensure they stay crispy and delicious. Garnish with mini chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar for that delightful finish, and you ll be set for an effortless dessert that s just as irresistible!

What to Serve with Mini Cannoli Bites?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful companions that balance and enhance the flavors of these cherished treats.

• Rich Espresso: A shot of bold espresso pairs beautifully with the creamy sweetness, cutting through the richness for an uplifting finish.

• Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a refreshing burst of tartness, complementing the sweetness of the Mini Cannoli Bites.

• Chocolate Mousse: Serve a light, airy chocolate mousse as a luxurious contrast. The creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor create a heavenly match.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combination of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a cool, satisfying complement to the crispy bite-sized treats.

• Sweet Wine: A glass of Moscato or a light prosecco enhances the overall experience with its fruity notes, making every bite more delightful.

• Pistachio Cream: A dollop of pistachio cream not only adds vibrant color but introduces an earthy flavor that beautifully balances the cannoli s sweetness.

• Meringue Cookies: Light and crunchy, these cookies add an airy texture that pairs well with the rich filling, creating a delightful contrast on the palate.

• Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream serves as a lovely, creamy addition, providing extra indulgence with each bite of your Mini Cannoli Bites.

Mini Cannoli Bites Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful bites! Each variation offers a unique twist to elevate this classic dessert.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy ingredients with vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped cream for a rich, plant-based filling.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts or make homemade pastry dough with gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary needs.

• Flavor Infusion: Add a splash of almond extract or orange zest to the filling for an extra burst of flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy textures.

• Chocolate Lovers: Fold in cocoa powder to the filling or dip the finished bites in melted chocolate for a decadent treat that chocolate enthusiasts will adore.

• Fruit Twist: Incorporate fresh fruit pieces, like raspberries or strawberries, into the filling for a refreshing, fruity surprise in every bite.

• Heat it Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of red pepper flakes to the filling for a subtly spicy twist that adds depth to the sweetness.

• Alternative Sweeteners: Swap powdered sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar to create a different level of sweetness while maintaining the delightful characteristics of the bites.

• Nutty Crunch: Top the bites with chopped nuts like pistachios or hazelnuts for an irresistible crunch that provides texture contrast to the soft filling.

Let your imagination run wild as you explore these variations for a personalized touch to your Mini Cannoli Bites, ensuring every bite is a joyous celebration of flavors!

Mini Cannoli Bites Recipe FAQs

What type of pie crust should I use for Mini Cannoli Bites?
You can use premade pie crust for convenience, which is easily found in most grocery stores. However, if you have extra time, a homemade pie crust can enhance the flavor and texture of your Mini Cannoli Bites significantly.

How should I store Mini Cannoli Bites?
To keep your Mini Cannoli Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This way, the creamy filling stays cool and the crispy shells maintain their delightful crunch for a little while longer.

Can I freeze Mini Cannoli Bites?
Absolutely! You can freeze the empty shells for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you re ready to enjoy them, simply fill with the prepared filling straight from the fridge, or let the shells thaw for about 15 minutes before filling.

What can I do if my filling is too watery?
If your filling turns out watery, it s likely due to not straining the ricotta cheese properly. To fix this, place the ricotta in a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth and let it drain in the fridge for at least 1 hour before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help achieve that thick, creamy texture we all love!

Are Mini Cannoli Bites allergy-friendly?
While these bites are delicious, they do contain dairy and sugar, which can be problematic for those with lactose intolerance or sugar sensitivities. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using plant-based ricotta and cream cheese. Always check the labels for any potential allergens if you re serving guests!

Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and fill the shells just before serving. This keeps the filling fresh and prevents the shells from getting soggy!