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Cannoli Bites – Crispy, Creamy, and Perfectly Bite-Sized

Cannoli Bites are a fun, easy twist on the classic Italian dessert, delivering all the creamy, chocolate-studded goodness of traditional cannoli in a simple, bite-sized form. With crisp pastry shells and a smooth ricotta-mascarpone filling, these little treats are perfect for parties, holidays, dessert tables, or anytime you want something elegant without a lot of effort. What makes these cannoli bites especially appealing is how approachable they are. Using a premade pie crust keeps things quick and stress-free, while the creamy filling feels rich, light, and perfectly balanced. Beautiful to serve and easy to eat, these cannoli-style dessert bites are always a crowd favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
bake time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cannoli bites
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 premade pie crust
  • ½ cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • ¼ cup mascarpone cheese
  • ⅓ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small round cutter or glass
  • Mini muffin tin
  • Mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or whisk
  • Spoon or piping bag
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    Step 2: Roll out the premade pie crust on a flat surface and cut it into small circles using a round cutter or glass.
      Step 3: Gently press each dough circle into the cavities of a mini muffin tin to form small shells.
        Step 4: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the shells are lightly golden and crisp.
          Step 5: Remove the shells from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the tin.
            Step 6: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese.
              Step 7: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth and creamy.
                Step 8: Fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
                  Step 9: Spoon or pipe the filling into the cooled pastry shells, filling each one generously.
                    Step 10: Arrange the cannoli bites on a serving platter and serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

                      Notes

                      🧊 Storage & Reheating
                      Store filled cannoli bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
                      For best texture, fill the shells close to serving time.
                      Reheating is not recommended.
                      🥄 Variations
                      Add citrus zest for a fresh flavor twist.
                      Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
                      Dip the edges in melted chocolate and let set before filling.
                      Add finely chopped nuts for extra texture.
                      Use a flavored extract for a subtle variation.
                      ❓ 10 FAQs
                      Do these taste like traditional cannoli?
                      Yes, they capture the creamy filling and crisp shell flavor.
                      Can I make the shells ahead of time?
                      Yes, bake and store them unfilled for up to 2 days.
                      Should ricotta be drained?
                      Light draining helps keep the filling thick.
                      Can I pipe the filling?
                      Yes, piping gives a clean, professional look.
                      Are these good for parties?
                      Absolutely, they’re perfect bite-sized desserts.
                      Can I make them sweeter?
                      Add a bit more powdered sugar to taste.
                      Do the shells stay crisp?
                      Best when filled shortly before serving.
                      Can I double the recipe?
                      Yes, it scales very well.
                      Are these kid-friendly?
                      Yes, they’re a hit with all ages.
                      Can I freeze them?
                      Freezing is not recommended for best texture.
                      🏁 Conclusion
                      These Cannoli Bites offer all the charm of a classic dessert in a simple, modern format. Crispy shells, creamy filling, and little bursts of chocolate make them irresistible and easy to love. Perfect for entertaining or treating yourself, these bite-sized cannoli prove that elegant desserts don’t have to be complicated.