Mini Cannoli Bites are a playful, crowd-pleasing take on the beloved Sicilian classic. These small treats deliver the familiar contrast of crisp pastry and luscious ricotta filling—now downsized for maximum snackability and convenience. Whether you’re hosting a party, filling a dessert tray, or just looking for a little indulgence, these cannoli bites are simple to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Why Mini Cannoli Bites Stand Out
Bite-Sized Simplicity
Mini Cannoli Bites combine all the best elements of traditional cannoli—crunch, creaminess, subtle sweetness—into a miniature form. Their size makes them perfect for entertaining, sharing, or satisfying a sweet craving with less mess and more fun.
Timeless Flavor, Modern Ease
Thanks to ready-made pie crusts, you can skip the fuss of rolling dough from scratch. Pair that with a creamy filling of ricotta and mascarpone, and you’ve got classic cannoli flavor with half the work.
Endless Variety
Personalization is easy. Chocolate chips, pistachios, citrus zest, or even chopped candied fruit can be mixed in or sprinkled on top. Every batch can look and taste a little different, depending on your mood or the occasion.
Ingredient Guide
A few quality staples form the base for these mini cannoli:
- Refrigerated Pie Crusts – Flaky, buttery, and easy to work with. Store-bought works beautifully.
- Cinnamon Sugar – Optional, but adds warmth to the shell.
- Ricotta Cheese – Creamy with a mild sweetness. Draining is key.
- Mascarpone Cheese – Rich, smooth Italian cream cheese.
- Powdered Sugar – Blends smoothly for a refined sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and floral notes.
- Mini Chocolate Chips – Tiny bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Lemon or Orange Zest (optional) – Adds brightness to the filling.
- Chopped Pistachios (optional) – For extra crunch and visual pop.
Below you’ll find a table with precise quantities for a standard batch (24 bites):
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated Pie Crust | 2 sheets |
| Cinnamon Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Ricotta Cheese | 1 cup, drained |
| Mascarpone Cheese | 4 oz |
| Powdered Sugar | 1/2–3/4 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| Mini Chocolate Chips | 1/3 cup |
| Lemon/Orange Zest | 1 tsp (opt.) |
| Chopped Pistachios | 2 tbsp (opt.) |
Step-by-Step: Making Mini Cannoli Bites
1. Prepare the Shells
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. If you want that signature cannoli shell sweetness, sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly on top and gently roll it in.
Using a small round cookie cutter (about 2½ inches wide), cut 24 circles. If needed, reroll scraps for more rounds. Press each piece gently into a mini muffin tin, making sure they fit snugly. Prick the bases lightly with a fork to prevent puffing.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the shells are golden. Cool completely in the tin, then lift out and set aside.
2. Drain and Mix the Filling
Drain ricotta by wrapping it in cheesecloth and pressing out excess moisture, or by placing it in a fine mesh sieve set over a bowl for at least 30 minutes. This step keeps your filling thick and prevents sogginess.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the drained ricotta and mascarpone until smooth. Sift in powdered sugar and add vanilla extract. Whisk until fully incorporated and creamy. Fold in mini chocolate chips, along with zest or nuts if using. Chill the filling for 30 minutes if it feels too loose—it should hold its shape when spooned.
3. Assemble the Bites
You can fill the shells in two ways:
- Spoon Method: Use a small spoon to dollop the filling into each pastry cup.
- Piping Method: Transfer filling to a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip for neater, bakery-style swirls.
Sprinkle each bite with a dusting of powdered sugar. Add a few extra chocolate chips or a pinch of pistachios on top for color and crunch.
4. Serve or Store
Cannoli bites are best enjoyed soon after assembly for peak contrast between shell and cream. If you need to prep ahead, keep shells and filling separate. Fill them just before serving to preserve texture.
Pro Tips for Cannoli Success
- Cheese Matters: Use whole milk ricotta for richness and better binding. For extra smoothness, blend it before using.
- Avoid Soggy Shells: Line each pastry shell with a thin layer of melted dark chocolate before filling. This acts as a moisture barrier and adds depth.
- Get Creative: Swap mini chocolate chips for chopped mini candied fruit, espresso powder, or cocoa nibs.
- Bake Evenly: For golden shells, rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking.
- Shape Without Cutters: A small glass or mason jar lid works if you don’t own a cookie cutter.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Being party-friendly means working ahead. Here’s how to streamline your prep without sacrificing quality:
- Shells: Prepare and cool shells up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Filling: Mix and chill the filling up to 1 day ahead. Keep refrigerated in a sealed container.
- Assembly: Wait until 1-2 hours before serving to fill the shells. This keeps everything crisp.
If Storing Filled Cannoli Bites
If you find yourself with leftovers, cover and refrigerate them. The shells may soften slightly, but the flavor will remain excellent for up to 24 hours.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Mini Cannoli Bites offer room for endless personalization and creative displays:
- Garnishes: Try chopped toasted almonds, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or a drizzle of bittersweet chocolate.
- Fruit Touch: Add fresh raspberries or maraschino cherries on top for a pop of color.
- Festive Platters: Arrange on a platter with a dusting of confectioner’s sugar and edible flowers for a party-ready display.
Dietary Twists
- Substitute gluten-free pie crusts if needed.
- For a lighter option, use low-fat ricotta and mascarpone—though the texture will be less rich.
- Omitting chocolate chips makes for a more traditional filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use phyllo dough instead of pie crust?
Yes—phyllo will yield a crisper, lighter shell, similar to classic cannoli.
Does the filling hold up for travel or parties?
If you transport them filled, chill them until the last minute for best results.
How do I keep the shells extra crisp?
Brush the interior with melted chocolate after baking and let it set before piping in the filling.
What’s the best way to drain ricotta quickly?
Fine mesh sieves work well, or use several layers of strong paper towels wrapped around the cheese.
Mini Cannoli Bites are a versatile, irresistible treat that fit any occasion. With their crisp shells, smooth filling, and customizable toppings, they’re sure to be the hit of any gathering. The simple method makes them accessible even for novice bakers, and the flavor profiles invite endless creativity. Try a batch for your next event—or to treat yourself on an ordinary afternoon.
