Episode 4 of The Great American Recipe recently aired on PBS where the theme was “moveable feasts” and the seven cooks were asked to prepare a dish for the panel of judges (Graham Elliot, Tiffany Derry and Leah Cohen ) that could be enjoyed “on the run” at an […]
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Episode 4 of The Great American Recipe recently aired on PBS where the theme was “moveable feasts” and the seven cooks were asked to prepare a dish for the panel of judges (Graham Elliot, Tiffany Derry and Leah Cohen ) that could be enjoyed “on the run” at an outdoor event or summer picnic. While all of the contestant's recipes sounded amazing, the one that stuck with me was Tony Scherber’s Cannoli Dip.
What is Cannoli Dip?
Cannoli Dip is a play on the traditional Italian fried dessert. It takes the best part of the cannoli (in my opinion), and turns it into a creamy, decadent dessert dip made from a combination of two classic Italian cheeses. Both marscapone and ricotta cheese are whipped together and studded with mini-chocolate chips. The no-bake dip recipe is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy poolside this summer.
What to Serve with Cannoli Dip?
The best choice would be homemade cannoli chips, (see Tony's recipe), which I would highly recommend if you have the time and desire to do so. However, for those that just need a quick snack, there are other options.
An obvious and delicious substitute for homemade cannoli chips is to use pieces of broken cannoli shells. Empty cannoli shells can be found at most Italian bakeries. An equally delicious, though not traditional option, is to use old fashion waffle cones or crumbled pieces of a favorite cookie or graham cracker.
Because this recipe has so few ingredients, the quality of the ingredients will make a difference. I suggest you splurge on a good quality mascarpone, I prefer the Vermont Creamery brand. This will make a huge difference in the final taste.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 lb mascarpone cheese
- 1 lb whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups mini chocolate chips
- grated zest of 1 orange
How To Make Cannoli Dip
- In a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, whip the mascarpone and ricotta at medium speed until combined and smooth.
- Sift and add 1 cup of the powdered sugar to the cheese mixture and whip for 30 seconds.
- Sift and add the second cup of powdered sugar and whip until just incorporated.
- Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla, orange zest and chocolate chips and whip until nicely combined and fluffy.
- Transfer the dip to a large bowl and garnish with additional chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve
What to Drink With Cannoli Dip
This is one of those recipes where a spritz cocktail would be the perfect pairing. I can almost imagine toes dipped in the pool, spritz in one hand and a bowl of this tasty cannoli dip in the other. Happy Summer!
