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This playful cannoli dip turns everything I love about Italian desserts into a crowd-pleasing sweet treat. The creamy blend of chocolate and ricotta is rich but refreshing and pairs perfectly with crisp cinnamon sugar chips that come straight from your oven. Whether it is a family movie night or a party table centerpiece everyone rushes in for a scoop.
I whipped this up on a whim for a last-minute birthday game night and now it is a must-make whenever friends drop in. The cinnamon sugar aroma always draws everyone to the kitchen before I am even finished plating.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas: Choose large ones for big sturdy chips and make sure they are fresh so they bake up crisp
- Unsalted butter: Melting it helps evenly coat the tortillas and gives the chips a golden crunch
- Granulated sugar: This is what makes those chips taste like classic churros
- Ground cinnamon: Go for a high-quality aromatic cinnamon for the best warmth and depth
- Ricotta cheese: Well-drained whole milk ricotta gives the dip a silky base that is not watery
- Mascarpone cheese: A little softer and creamier than cream cheese so your dip is ultra lush
- Powdered sugar: Use fresh sifted powdered sugar for the smoothest dip texture
- Vanilla extract: Choose pure vanilla for the richest background flavor
- Mini dark chocolate chips: Grab a good brand so the chocolate crisps and melts in the dip
- Orange zest: Only use fresh zest for a zippy touch it is optional but truly elevates the dip
Pick up cheese from the deli counter over tubs for less water and more flavor. Small batch cinnamon can turn even weekday bakes into something special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the oven and pans:
- Set your oven to one hundred eighty degrees Celsius three hundred fifty Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment. This prevents sticking and ensures the chips crisp all over
- Butter the tortillas:
- Brush each side of every tortilla with melted butter using a pastry brush. You want an even coat so that every chip bakes golden and flavorful
- Mix and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar:
- Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle generously over both sides of the tortillas covering every bit for max flavor
- Cut and arrange the chips:
- Slice each tortilla into eight wedges using a knife or pizza cutter. Spread the wedges in a single layer on the baking sheets with space between each piece
- Bake until golden and crisp:
- Bake for about eight to ten minutes flipping the chips halfway. Watch closely at the end for a deep golden color then cool completely so they are shatteringly crisp
- Mix the dip base:
- Combine the well-drained ricotta mascarpone powdered sugar and vanilla in a medium bowl. Beat for about two to three minutes until creamy and smooth with no lumps
- Fold in the chocolate chips and zest:
- Gently stir in the mini chocolate chips and fresh orange zest if using. This way the chips do not break or tint the dip too early
- Serve and enjoy:
- Spoon the dip into your favorite bowl and add a few more chocolate chips for looks. Plate the cinnamon sugar chips alongside and let everyone dig in
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Ricotta is always the star in my house it makes desserts feel special yet not heavy. One of my favorite moments was watching a group of cousins argue over the last cinnamon sugar chip the chocolate dip had vanished long before.
Storage Tips
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The chips will stay crisp for two to three days in a loosely covered container at room temperature. If you want to refresh them pop the chips in the oven for a few minutes to restore crunch. For make-ahead parties you can bake the chips earlier in the day and prepare the dip just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
- No mascarpone: No problem Cream cheese makes a good swap though it is tangier
- If you only have corn tortillas: They will work but your chips will be crunchier and taste slightly different
- Swap mini chocolate chips: For finely chopped high-quality chocolate or even white chocolate pieces for extra variety
- Want to go dairy free: Try vegan ricotta and plant-based cream cheese
These swaps let you make the dip work for almost any guest and keep things interesting if you like to experiment
Serving Suggestions
- For pretty presentation arrange cinnamon sugar chips in a spiral around a central dip bowl
- Drizzle a bit of warmed Nutella or melted chocolate over the top before serving for an extra indulgent touch
- Sprinkle crushed pistachios or candied orange peel on the dip for color and crunch
- Pair with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries for dipping
I like to serve this with espresso or a sweet dessert wine to round out an Italian themed evening. It is also just as welcome at a potluck or brunch table
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Cannoli History
Cannoli originated in Sicily as a symbol of celebration especially at Carnevale. The pastry shell has evolved into many playful dessert versions like this dip which delivers classic flavors without any deep frying. Ricotta and chocolate are a timeless pairing in Italian desserts and using orange zest honors the Mediterranean tradition of taste and citrus.
Common Questions
- → Can I prepare the cinnamon sugar chips in advance?
Yes, bake the chips ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- → How do I ensure the ricotta dip stays creamy?
Drain ricotta thoroughly before mixing, and beat the cheeses until completely smooth for the best texture.
- → Is there a substitute for mascarpone cheese?
Cream cheese works well as a substitute for mascarpone, giving a similar creamy consistency and mild flavor.
- → Can I add toppings to the dip?
Yes, try chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or chopped pistachios for extra texture and flavor.
- → How should I serve this dessert at parties?
Transfer the dip to a bowl and arrange chips around it on a platter, allowing guests to dip and enjoy easily.
- → Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dessert is vegetarian-friendly as it uses ricotta, mascarpone, and flour tortillas.