A Delightful, No-Bake Twist On The Classic Cannoli, With A Crispy Shell Filled With Creamy Ricotta Filling – The Perfect Sweet Treat For Any Occasion!
These No-Bake Cannoli Cups are a fun and easy version of the classic Italian dessert! I decided to make them because I wanted a cannoli-inspired treat that’s quick and requires no baking. The crunchy, sweetened shells paired with the rich and creamy ricotta filling make every bite irresistible.
My family loves these because they’re light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, and the best part is they’re super easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert to enjoy at home or a treat to impress your guests, these no-bake cannoli cups are always a hit!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I use store-bought cannoli shells?
A: Yes! You can use store-bought cannoli shells to save time. However, making the cups yourself adds a nice homemade touch and is super easy to do with the right ingredients.
Q: Can I make the ricotta filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the filling a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just fill the cups right before serving for the best texture.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the regular cookies for gluten-free cookies or crushed gluten-free graham crackers to make it gluten-free.
Q: Can I use something other than ricotta cheese?
A: While ricotta is traditional for cannoli filling, you can substitute with mascarpone or cream cheese for a different flavor. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly different.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?
A: Yes, adding mini chocolate chips to the ricotta filling is a great idea! It adds a nice texture and extra sweetness.
What You Need to Make No-Bake Cannoli Cups
For the Cannoli Cups:
- 12 mini phyllo cups (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, for flavor)
For the Topping (optional):
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Extra mini chocolate chips
- Chopped pistachios
How to Make No-Bake Cannoli Cups
1. Prepare the ricotta filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer for a smoother texture, but a spoon or whisk works fine too. Add the mini chocolate chips and gently fold them into the mixture.
2. Fill the cups:
Spoon the ricotta filling into the mini phyllo cups. Be generous with the filling, but make sure to leave a little space at the top of each cup.
3. Garnish the cups:
Garnish each cannoli cup with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, orange zest, or additional mini chocolate chips. If you’d like, you can also dust the tops with a little powdered sugar for a delicate finish.
4. Chill the cannoli cups:
Place the filled cups in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the filling firm up slightly and make the cups easier to eat.
5. Serve:
Serve the cannoli cups chilled, and enjoy the deliciously creamy, crunchy, and sweet treat!
Tips
- For a firmer filling: If you prefer a thicker filling, you can drain the ricotta overnight by placing it in a fine mesh sieve over a bowl to remove excess moisture.
- Add a twist: For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of almond extract to the ricotta filling.
- Make it festive: Top with colored sprinkles or candied orange peel for a festive touch, especially around the holidays.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Megan L. – “These No-Bake Cannoli Cups are amazing! The filling is so creamy, and the phyllo cups give them the perfect crunch. I loved the added pistachios and chocolate chips on top!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Rachel S. – “These were the perfect treat for our family gathering! They’re so easy to make, and the flavor is spot-on. The mini chocolate chips in the filling are a great touch.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Sophie W. – “I love how simple these are to make, yet they taste so indulgent! The ricotta filling is smooth and sweet, and the crunchy phyllo cups are the perfect vessel.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma B. – “These cannoli cups are a big hit at parties! They’re light, sweet, and the perfect little bite-sized treat. I’ll definitely be making these again!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica H. – “This is such a fun twist on traditional cannoli! The no-bake part makes it so easy to make, and the pistachio topping adds just the right crunch. A must-try!”
Printable Recipe
No-Bake Cannoli Cups
These No-Bake Cannoli Cups are a perfect combination of crispy phyllo shells and creamy ricotta filling, making for a delicious and easy dessert that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- For the Cannoli Cups:
- 12 mini phyllo cups (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, for flavor)
- For the Topping (optional):
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Extra mini chocolate chips
- Chopped pistachios
Instructions
1. Prepare the ricotta filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer for a smoother texture, but a spoon or whisk works fine too. Add the mini chocolate chips and gently fold them into the mixture.
2. Fill the cups:
- Spoon the ricotta filling into the mini phyllo cups. Be generous with the filling, but make sure to leave a little space at the top of each cup.
3. Garnish the cups:
- Garnish each cannoli cup with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, orange zest, or additional mini chocolate chips. If you’d like, you can also dust the tops with a little powdered sugar for a delicate finish.
4. Chill the cannoli cups:
- Place the filled cups in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the filling firm up slightly and make the cups easier to eat.
5. Serve:
- Serve the cannoli cups chilled, and enjoy the deliciously creamy, crunchy, and sweet treat!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved these No-Bake Cannoli Cups, please share them with your friends and family! They’re a quick and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Share it on social media and tag me – I’d love to see how your cannoli cups turn out!
