Mini Cannoli Bites

Introduction

Mini Cannoli Bites are a bite-sized version of the classic Italian treat, packed with all the creamy, crispy goodness you crave. The crisp, fried pastry shells hold a rich, velvety ricotta filling that’s both sweet and slightly tangy, with hints of vanilla and citrus. The bite-sized nature of these little delights makes them even more fun and irresistible. Each one is coated in mini chocolate chips and dusted with powdered sugar, offering that perfect combination of textures and flavors in every bite.

These Mini Cannoli Bites are a personal favorite of mine, and they’ve been a hit at countless parties and family gatherings. The moment you take a bite, you’re greeted with the crunch of the shell, followed by the smooth, slightly sweet ricotta filling that melts in your mouth. The chocolate chips add an extra layer of richness, and the dusting of powdered sugar makes them feel even more decadent. They’re the perfect mix of light and indulgent, offering just the right amount of sweetness.

Mini Cannoli Bites are ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a more formal event. Their small size makes them perfect for passing around or serving as part of a dessert platter. And while they’re fantastic on their own, pairing them with a small espresso or a glass of dessert wine elevates the experience. If you’re after a dessert that’s sure to impress and leave everyone smiling, these Mini Cannoli Bites are the way to go!

Perfect for:

Finger-friendly party snacks
Quick and impressive desserts
Holiday gatherings
Casual weeknight treats
Sharing with family and friends

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Mini Cannoli Bites will become your new favorite dessert:

Crispy and Creamy Combo: The crispy pastry shells combined with the creamy ricotta filling make for a perfect bite-sized treat.
Quick and Easy: Unlike traditional cannoli, these mini bites are much simpler to prepare, and there’s no need for deep-frying.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The filling can be prepared in advance, and the mini cannoli can be assembled when you’re ready to serve.
Versatile Flavoring: You can easily adjust the flavor of the filling with spices, citrus, or even chocolate chips for different variations.
Crowd-Pleaser: These little bites pack a lot of flavor, making them a hit at any party or gathering.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12-16 mini cannoli bites
Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 22g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Mini Cannoli Bites:

1 package (14 oz) mini cannoli shells (store-bought or homemade)
1 ½ cups ricotta cheese, well-drained
1 cup mascarpone cheese
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
Zest of 1 orange (or lemon, for a different citrus twist)
¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
¼ cup chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Ingredient Highlights

Mini Cannoli Shells: Either store-bought or homemade, these delicate, crispy shells provide the perfect crunch to balance the creamy filling.
Ricotta and Mascarpone Cheese: These two cheeses create a rich, smooth filling with a mild, sweet flavor.
Citrus Zest: Adds a burst of freshness and subtle brightness that complements the rich filling.
Chocolate Chips and Pistachios: Optional but highly recommended for adding texture and a touch of extra flavor.
Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and is perfect for dusting the finished cannoli bites.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Mini Cannoli Bites:

Prepare the Filling:

Drain the Ricotta: Place the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh strainer and let it drain for about 10 minutes to remove excess liquid. This step helps prevent the filling from becoming too runny.
Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the drained ricotta, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and citrus zest. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, stir in mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios for added texture and flavor.

Assemble the Cannoli Bites:

Fill the Shells: Using a piping bag or a small spoon, carefully fill each mini cannoli shell with the prepared filling. Be sure to fill them from both ends for an even distribution.
Garnish: If desired, dip the open ends of the filled cannoli in chopped pistachios or mini chocolate chips for extra flavor and decoration.

Serve:

Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust the filled cannoli with powdered sugar just before serving.
Serve Immediately or Store: Serve the mini cannoli bites immediately, or store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.

How to Serve

Mini Cannoli Bites are perfect for a variety of serving occasions:

At Parties: Serve them on a decorative platter as an eye-catching dessert table addition.
In Individual Portions: Arrange the mini cannoli in individual serving cups for easy grab-and-go servings.
As a Sweet Snack: Enjoy these bites as a quick snack or dessert after dinner.
With Coffee or Tea: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
On a Dessert Buffet: Add them to your dessert spread along with other Italian favorites like tiramisu or panna cotta.

Additional Tips

For the best Mini Cannoli Bites, keep these tips in mind:

Well-Drain the Ricotta: Ensuring that the ricotta is fully drained prevents the filling from becoming watery.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Shells: While store-bought mini cannoli shells are convenient, you can also make your own using phyllo dough or pie dough for a custom texture.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to add different flavorings like chocolate, almond extract, or even a splash of amaretto for a unique twist.
Make Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before filling the shells. However, avoid filling the shells too far in advance to maintain their crispness.
Storage: Store filled cannoli bites in the fridge for up to 2 hours. After that, the shells may soften, so it’s best to fill them just before serving.

Recipe Variations

Here are some fun variations of Mini Cannoli Bites:

Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli Bites: After filling the shells, dip the ends in melted chocolate and let set.
Fruit-Filled Cannoli: Add fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries to the filling for a burst of freshness.
Nutty Cannoli Bites: Use crushed almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts instead of pistachios for a different nutty crunch.
Coffee-Flavored Cannoli: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee powder or espresso to the filling for a coffee-flavored twist.
Coconut Cannoli Bites: Incorporate toasted coconut into the filling for a tropical flavor.
Lemon Cannoli: Swap the orange zest for lemon zest for a brighter, more tangy flavor.
Chocolate Chip Cannoli: Add more chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, decadent version.
Caramel Cannoli: Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the filling or mix it into the ricotta for a sweet, caramelized taste.
Cinnamon Sugar Cannoli Bites: Dust the shells with cinnamon sugar before filling for extra sweetness and spice.
Gluten-Free Cannoli Bites: Use gluten-free mini cannoli shells for a gluten-free option.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: Mini Cannoli Bites are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the unfilled shells for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the shells and fill with the prepared filling.
Storage: Store any leftover filled cannoli bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 hours. After that, the shells may soften, so it’s best to enjoy them sooner rather than later.

Special Equipment

Here are a few tools that will make preparing Mini Cannoli Bites easier:

Piping Bag or Plastic Bag: Ideal for filling the cannoli shells without making a mess.
Fine Mesh Strainer: Perfect for draining the ricotta cheese.
Mixing Bowls: Use for combining the filling ingredients.
Small Spoon or Spatula: For filling the cannoli shells evenly.
Chopping Board: For chopping pistachios or other garnishes.
Serving Tray: A stylish tray or platter to arrange and present the cannoli bites.
Sifter or Powdered Sugar Shaker: For dusting the cannoli with powdered sugar for that perfect finishing touch.

FAQ Section

Can I use regular ricotta cheese?
Yes, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the filling ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Can I use different shells?
You can make your own shells using phyllo dough or pie dough, or you can use store-bought mini shells.
How do I prevent the shells from getting soggy?
Fill the shells just before serving to keep them crisp.
What else can I put in the filling?
You can add chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts to the filling to customize the flavor.
Can I freeze the filled cannoli bites?
It’s best to freeze the shells unfilled. The filling doesn’t freeze well with the shells.
How long can I store filled cannoli bites?
They are best served immediately, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
Can I make these without mascarpone?
Yes, you can replace mascarpone with more ricotta or cream cheese for a different texture.
How do I make the shells crispier?
If using homemade shells, ensure they are baked until golden and crisp. Store-bought shells should maintain their crispness if filled right before serving.
What’s the best way to serve these at a party?
Arrange them on a decorative platter with some chocolate shavings or fresh fruit for an elegant presentation.

Conclusion

Mini Cannoli Bites are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the richness of traditional cannoli with the fun and convenience of bite-sized indulgence. These little pastries offer a crispy shell filled with a creamy, slightly sweet ricotta filling, giving you all the flavors of the classic dessert in a manageable, poppable form.

What makes these Mini Cannoli Bites so irresistible is their balance of textures—the delicate crunch of the shell paired with the smooth, velvety filling creates a perfect harmony in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, these treats are sure to impress.

Easily customizable, you can add a variety of toppings like chocolate chips, crushed pistachios, or even a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate your cannoli bites to the next level. Their versatility makes them ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.

I can’t wait for you to indulge in these delicious mini treats! Share your creations and tag me on social media—I love seeing how you put your spin on this classic dessert! Enjoy every decadent bite!