No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie

Name: No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486574H33M37S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream; 1 cup whole milk ricotta; ¾ cup confectioners sugar; Dash of cinnamon; ¾ cup mini chocolate chips; 1 store-bought 9-inch graham cracker pie crust

Published: July 2, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: No need to heat up your oven; simply mix and chill.
Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, ricotta, and chocolate chips delivers an irresistible taste.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in with family.
Elegant Presentation: This pie looks stunning on any dessert table, impressing your guests with minimal effort.
Customizable Ingredients: Adjust flavors with optional zest or different toppings to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools for an easy cooking experience. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Electric mixer
Medium mixing bowl
9-inch pie dish
Whisk attachment (for whipped cream)

Importance of Each Tool

Electric mixer: Speeds up the mixing process, ensuring your cream stays fluffy and combined perfectly.
Medium mixing bowl: Provides ample space for blending ingredients without spills.
Whisk attachment: Essential for achieving stiff peaks when whipping cream for a light topping.

Ingredients

For the Filling

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup whole milk ricotta
3/4 cup confectioners sugar
dash of cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Crust

1 9-inch store-bought graham cracker pie crust

For the Topping

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons confectioners sugar

How to Make No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Whip the Heavy Cream

Add in 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream. Beat on high speed until thickened and stiff peaks form.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed and mix in:
1. 1 cup whole milk ricotta
2. 3/4 cup confectioners sugar
3. dash of cinnamon
4. orange zest (if using)

Continue mixing until all ingredients are well-blended.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared graham cracker pie crust.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours or preferably overnight until set.

Step 7: Make Whipped Cream Topping

Before serving, prepare the whipped cream topping by pouring 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream into a medium bowl. Mix on high speed with a whisk attachment until stiff peaks form. Fold in 2 tablespoons confectioners sugar.

Step 8: Top the Pie

Spread the whipped cream topping over the set cannoli cream filling.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with remaining mini chocolate chips before slicing and serving your delicious No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie! Enjoy this delightful dessert with friends and family!

How to Serve No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie

Serving No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie is as delightful as making it. This creamy dessert can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its rich flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions to elevate your serving experience.

Individual Portions

Use small dessert cups for a charming presentation. Layer the cannoli cream pie with extra chocolate chips or fruit for a colorful touch.

Garnished Slices

Serve slices topped with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries. Their tartness beautifully balances the sweetness of the pie.

Whipped Cream Delight

Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream on top. It adds an airy lightness that complements the dense creaminess of the pie.

Chilled Plates

Chill your serving plates before adding the pie slices. This keeps each slice cool and refreshing, perfect for warm days.

How to Perfect No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie

To achieve the best results with your No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie, consider these helpful tips.

Use room temperature cream cheese: This ensures a smooth texture when mixing with other ingredients, preventing lumps in your filling.
Chill overnight for better flavor: Allowing the pie to set overnight enhances its flavors and helps achieve a firmer consistency.
Fold gently: When combining in chocolate chips, fold them in carefully to maintain the light texture of your filling.
Opt for high-quality chocolate chips: Using good quality mini chocolate chips can elevate the overall taste of your cannoli cream pie.
Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like crushed nuts or citrus zest for added flavor and decoration.

Best Side Dishes for No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie

Pairing side dishes with your No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delectable options that will complement this sweet treat beautifully.

Espresso: A shot of espresso provides a bold contrast to the sweetness of the pie, making it an ideal pairing.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing out the richness of the cannoli cream.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats echo the chocolate chips in the pie while adding a touch of elegance.
Pistachio Cookies: The nutty flavor of pistachio cookies pairs wonderfully with cannoli cream, enhancing its Italian roots.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds extra creaminess and a delightful temperature contrast.
Mint Tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea cleanses the palate after indulging in this sweet dessert.
Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes the taste buds and complements the sweet flavors seamlessly.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats offer a tropical twist that pairs nicely with cannoli flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie, avoiding common mistakes can ensure a perfect dessert. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using cold ingredients: Always make sure your cream cheese is softened. Cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy filling that won’t blend well.
Skipping the chill time: Don’t rush the chilling process. Allowing the pie to set for 3-4 hours, or overnight, helps the flavors meld and gives the pie a better texture.
Not folding in chocolate chips properly: Be gentle when folding in the chocolate chips. Mixing too aggressively can deflate the whipped cream and ruin the light texture of the filling.
Overbeating the cream: Avoid overbeating the heavy cream when making whipped cream topping. Stop as soon as stiff peaks form to prevent it from turning grainy or butter-like.
Ignoring optional ingredients: Don’t overlook the optional orange zest. It adds a fresh flavor that enhances the overall taste of your No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store your pie in an airtight container.
It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Ensure it’s covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors.

Freezing No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie

You can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie

Oven: Not recommended for this dessert, as it’s best served chilled.
Microwave: If needed, use low power for short bursts; however, this may alter texture.
Stovetop: Not applicable for this no-bake recipe; serve cold straight from refrigeration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of crust for my No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie?

You can definitely experiment with different crusts! While a graham cracker crust is traditional, try using a chocolate cookie crust or even an Oreo crust for a unique twist.

How long does it take to make No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes, but remember to chill it for at least 3-4 hours—overnight is even better!

Can I customize the filling of my No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, swap chocolate chips for fruit, or incorporate other flavors like almond extract to tailor it to your taste.

What can I serve with No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie?

Pair this delightful pie with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch!

Is No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie gluten-free?

If you use a gluten-free crust, this pie can easily be made gluten-free! Just check all ingredient labels for gluten content.

Final Thoughts

The No-Bake Cannoli Cream Pie is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. With its creamy filling and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress at any gathering. Don’t hesitate to customize it further by adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Try this delightful dessert today!

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