Mini Cannoli Bites are like little pockets of sweet, creamy goodness wrapped in a crispy shell. These tiny treats have all the classic flavors of a cannoli—ricotta cheese mixed with a touch of sweetness and a sprinkle of chocolate chips—just in a bite-sized version that’s perfect for sharing. The crunchy exterior and smooth, fluffy filling make them a fun dessert to enjoy anytime.
I love making Mini Cannoli Bites when I want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re easy to whip up and always disappear fast because they’re just that tasty! One of my favorite tricks is to chill them well before serving so the filling gets a little firmer and the flavors come together even better.
These little bites are perfect for parties or even a casual treat with coffee. I enjoy serving them on a colorful plate with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a simple touch. Every time I make them, I’m reminded how something so simple can bring such joy—and how sharing these sweet moments feels just as good as eating the bites themselves.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This is the heart of the filling. Use whole milk ricotta for a creamy texture. If your ricotta is watery, drain it on a paper towel to avoid a runny filling. For a lighter option, you can try mascarpone or cream cheese.
Mini Phyllo or Wonton Cups: These provide the crisp shell for the filling. Wonton cups are an easy shortcut and usually available in the freezer section. If you can’t find them, try mini tart shells or even small graham cracker cups for a fun twist.
Chocolate Chips: I like mini chocolate chips in the filling to keep bites uniform, but finely chopped dark chocolate works well too. For topping, melting semi-sweet chips with cream makes a smooth drizzle. You can swap for milk or white chocolate if you prefer.
Chopped Nuts: Walnuts add nice crunch and flavor, but pistachios or almonds are great substitutes. If you have nut allergies, try crushed cookies or colored sprinkles instead.
How Can I Make the Perfect Ricotta Filling for Mini Cannoli Bites?
The filling should be creamy but not too runny to keep its shape inside the cups. Here’s what I do:
- Start by draining the ricotta to remove excess moisture. Use a fine sieve or cheesecloth for 30 minutes.
- Mix powdered sugar and vanilla into the ricotta for sweetness and flavor. Add a touch of cinnamon if you like a subtle spice.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips gently so the filling stays light and fluffy.
- If the filling feels too stiff, add 1-2 teaspoons of heavy cream or milk to loosen it slightly.
- Use a piping bag or small spoon to fill the cups neatly, mounding a bit over the top for a nice look.
Chilling the bites before serving lets the filling firm up and the flavors blend better, so don’t skip that step!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mini phyllo or wonton cups – I like these because they’re quick to fill and hold the delicious filling without extra prep.
- Mixing bowls – for combining the ricotta, sugar, and flavors easily.
- Electric mixer or whisk – helps to blend the ricotta smoothly and create a creamy filling.
- Small spoon or piping bag – makes filling the cups neat and quick.
- Microwave-safe bowl – for melting the chocolate chips with cream for a smooth drizzle.
- Serving platter – to display your lovely mini cannoli bites nicely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mini chocolate chips with chopped candied fruit, such as cherries or orange peel, for a fruity twist.
- Mix a splash of almond or lemon extract into the ricotta for a different flavor profile.
- Add a layer of fruit preserves or jam underneath the ricotta filling for extra sweetness.
- Replace walnuts or pistachios with toasted coconut or crushed cookies for variety and crunch.
How to Make Mini Cannoli Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups and Filling:
- 1 package mini phyllo or wonton cups (about 24 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese (drained if watery)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pistachios (for garnish)
Time You’ll Need
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then at least 30 minutes chilling time in the fridge. This chilling step helps the filling firm up and the flavors come together perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate for little bursts of sweetness.
2. Fill the Cups
Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each mini phyllo or wonton cup with the ricotta mixture. You can mound the filling a bit above the rim to make each bite look extra inviting.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Drizzle
Put the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
4. Add the Topping
Drizzle the melted chocolate over the filled cups. Then sprinkle chopped walnuts or pistachios on top for a nice crunch and extra flavor.
5. Chill and Serve
Lightly dust the cannoli bites with powdered sugar for a finishing touch. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the filling set. Serve chilled and enjoy these sweet, crunchy little treats!
Can I Use Frozen Ricotta Cheese for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh ricotta cheese because freezing can affect the texture, making it watery or grainy. If you only have frozen ricotta, thaw it completely in the fridge and drain any excess liquid before using.
Can I Prepare Mini Cannoli Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can fill the cups and drizzle the chocolate up to 4 hours before serving. Just keep them refrigerated and add the chopped nuts right before serving to keep them crunchy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mini cannoli bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shells may lose some crispness, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh when possible.
Can I Substitute Different Nuts or Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap walnuts or pistachios with almonds, hazelnuts, or crushed cookies. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or colorful sprinkles for a personalized touch.