Oh my goodness, have you ever tried Cannoli Pie? It’s like taking the beloved Italian cannoli and transforming it into a stunning pie that’ll have everyone swooning! Trust me, this dessert has all the creamy, dreamy flavors you love about traditional cannoli, but it comes together in a way that’s just so much easier to serve and share. I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering; my relatives couldn’t get enough! The combination of that flaky crust with the rich ricotta filling, dotted with chocolate chips and pistachios, is pure heaven. It’s a showstopper that feels fancy but is actually a breeze to whip up!
Ingredients List
Let’s gather all the goodies we need to make this Cannoli Pie absolutely irresistible! Here’s what you’ll want:
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Trust me, using whole milk ricotta really makes a difference in flavor and creaminess. Plus, having a pre-made crust saves so much time, so you can focus on that luscious filling! Let’s get ready to create something magical!
How to Prepare Cannoli Pie
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this heavenly Cannoli Pie! Don’t worry, it’s super straightforward. Just follow along, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that’ll impress everyone. Remember, the key is to take your time and enjoy the process!
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
First things first, we need to get that pie crust ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fit your pre-made pie crust into a pie dish, making sure to press it down nicely into the corners. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This little step makes the crust nice and flaky. Once it’s done, let it cool completely before adding the filling. Patience is key here!
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the crust is cooling, let’s whip up that creamy filling! In a mixing bowl, combine the 15 oz of whole milk ricotta cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract. Grab a fork or a whisk and mix until everything is smooth and luscious. Then, gently fold in the 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios. Be careful not to overmix; we want those tasty bits to stay intact!
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Now it’s time to add some fluffiness to our filling! In a separate bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and whip it until stiff peaks form. You’ll know it’s ready when you can lift the beaters, and the cream holds its shape beautifully. This is the secret to that dreamy texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture, taking your time to keep it light and airy. Wow, can you smell that already?
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Alright, the fun part is here! Pour that delicious filling into your cooled pie crust and spread it out evenly. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together. Just imagine how good it’ll taste once it’s set! Trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers!
- This Cannoli Pie offers a delightful twist on the classic cannoli, bringing all those beloved flavors into a shareable dessert.
- The creamy texture of the ricotta filling combined with the lightness of whipped cream is simply divine.
- It’s visually stunning, with the chocolate chips and pistachios adding a pop of color and crunch.
- This pie can be made ahead of time, allowing you to relax and enjoy your company when serving.
- Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, it’s bound to impress your guests!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Cannoli Pie is nothing short of spectacular, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips to share. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will take your pie to the next level!
- Use high-quality ricotta: This is crucial! Opt for whole milk ricotta for that creamy texture and rich flavor. It really makes a difference, and your pie will thank you!
- Chill thoroughly: Don’t rush the chilling process! Allowing the pie to chill for at least 2 hours helps the filling set and lets those flavors blend beautifully. Patience is truly a virtue here.
- Gently fold: When you’re mixing in the whipped cream and any other ingredients, be gentle! This keeps your filling light and airy, which is exactly what we want.
- Customize your toppings: Feel free to get creative! You can top it with extra chocolate chips, a sprinkle of crushed pistachios, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s all about making it your own!
- Serve cold: This pie is best enjoyed straight from the fridge. It’s refreshing and the perfect end to any meal, especially on a warm day!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a Cannoli Pie that’s not just good, but absolutely unforgettable! Happy baking!
Variations
One of the best parts about this Cannoli Pie is how versatile it is! You can totally customize it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
- Nutty Options: Swap out the chopped pistachios for other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts. They’ll add a different flavor and texture that’s equally delicious!
- Chocolate Lovers: Want to take it up a notch? Use dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips, or even drizzle some chocolate ganache on top before serving. Yum!
- Citrus Zest: For a refreshing twist, add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the filling. It brightens the flavors and gives your pie a delightful zing!
- Dried Fruit: Substitute the chocolate chips with dried fruits like raisins or cherries for a different take. They’ll add a lovely sweetness and chewiness.
- Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the ricotta filling for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall gatherings!
Feel free to get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors. Trust me, every variation will be a hit, and it’s a fun way to make this Cannoli Pie truly your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made this delightful Cannoli Pie, you might be wondering about storing any leftovers (if there are any!). Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain that creamy goodness!
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze slices of the pie! Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. Make sure to label it with the date so you don’t forget!
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen slice, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. No reheating is needed—this pie is best served cold, just like when it was freshly made!
Following these storage tips will ensure that you can savor every last bite of your Cannoli Pie, even days later. Enjoy the creamy goodness at your leisure!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to desserts, I know it’s always good to be mindful of the nutritional side of things. Just remember, the values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect per slice of this delicious Cannoli Pie:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 6g
So, there you have it! This Cannoli Pie can be a delightful treat in moderation. Enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite, knowing you can indulge without too much guilt!
Share Your Thoughts
I’d love to hear what you think about this Cannoli Pie! Have you tried making it? Did your family go wild for it like mine did? Whether you’ve got tips to share, variations you tried, or just want to let me know how it turned out, please leave a comment below! Your feedback means the world to me, and it helps others discover this delicious dessert, too. And if you loved it, don’t forget to rate the recipe! I can’t wait to hear from you and celebrate our shared love for this creamy, dreamy delight!
Print
Cannoli Pie: 7 Irresistibly Creamy Reasons to Indulge
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious twist on traditional cannoli, this Cannoli Pie features a creamy filling and a flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fit the pie crust into a pie dish and bake for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in chocolate chips and pistachios.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture.
- Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use whole milk ricotta.
- You can substitute chocolate chips with dried fruit.
- Top with extra chocolate chips or nuts if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Cannoli Pie, Italian Dessert, Ricotta Pie