Cannoli Cream Pie Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup confectioner's sugar
• 1 cups full fat ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup chopped lightly salted pistachios
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, plus more for topping

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325F (165C).
2. Place the graham cracker crust in the preheated oven and bake until it becomes golden brown and fragrant, about 10 minutes. Allow the crust to cool completely on a wire rack.
3. In a clean bowl, add the heavy whipping cream and beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth.
5. Fold in the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until everything is thoroughly combined.
6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture, ensuring it's well incorporated.
7. Carefully fold in the chopped pistachios and mini chocolate chips, mixing just enough to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
8. Pour the filling into the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
9. Place the pie in the refrigerator to chill for at least 5 hours, or up to overnight, to allow it to set.
10. Before serving, top the pie with additional mini chocolate chips for a finishing touch.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	547
Total Fat	39g
Saturated Fat	20g
Cholesterol	86mg
Sodium	357mg
Total Carbohydrate	41g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	26g
Protein	11g
Calcium	162mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	258mg

The Story Behind Cannoli Cream Pie

Cannoli cream pie is a modern adaptation of the traditional Sicilian cannoli, a dessert with roots dating back to the Arab rule of Sicily in the 9th century. Originally, cannoli were made with fried pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and often garnished with candied fruit or chocolate. Over time, Italian-American bakers reimagined the concept, creating a pie that captures the iconic flavors of cannoli in a creamy, sliceable form. This dessert maintains the essence of its Sicilian predecessor while offering a convenient, no-fry alternative that appeals to contemporary tastes.

Regional Characteristics

While traditional cannoli are a staple in Sicily and Southern Italy, cannoli cream pie is predominantly an Italian-American creation, popular in bakeries and households across the United States. Its ingredients often reflect local availability: graham cracker crusts substitute the delicate fried pastry, and toppings like pistachios and mini chocolate chips echo traditional Sicilian flavors. Some variations incorporate mascarpone or cream cheese alongside ricotta, giving the filling a richer texture while remaining true to the desserts Italian roots.

What Sets It Apart from Similar Desserts

Cannoli cream pie differentiates itself from other cream pies through its distinctive filling. Unlike a standard ricotta or custard pie, this dessert combines ricotta, cream cheese, and whipped cream for a texture that is both smooth and airy. Mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios add contrast, mimicking the classic cannoli experience. While other cream pies rely solely on a custard base, cannoli cream pie carries the signature flavor profile of cannoli, including hints of vanilla, a subtle tang from ricotta, and nutty accents, making it uniquely recognizable.

Where Its Usually Served

This dessert is commonly served at celebrations, Italian restaurants, and family gatherings. Its impressive presentation and familiar flavor profile make it a favorite for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. Many bakeries also offer it as a seasonal or specialty pie, often topped with additional chocolate chips, crushed pistachios, or even a dusting of powdered sugar to enhance its visual appeal. At home, it is typically chilled for several hours to achieve a firm, sliceable consistency.

Interesting Facts

• Cannoli cream pie allows bakers to enjoy the flavors of traditional cannoli without the need to fry delicate pastry shells.
• The use of both ricotta and cream cheese in the filling creates a balance of sweetness and creaminess that distinguishes it from ordinary pies.
• While pistachios are a common topping, chocolate chips are often added to emulate the chocolate-dipped ends of classic cannoli.
• Italian immigrants in the United States popularized this dessert in the 20th century, adapting it for easier preparation and refrigeration.
• The pie is versatile; variations may include citrus zest, espresso, or different nut toppings to reflect regional preferences or personal creativity.

With its rich history, regional adaptations, and unmistakable flavor, cannoli cream pie stands as both a tribute to Sicilian tradition and a modern dessert favorite, bridging cultures and generations through its creamy, decadent charm.

FAQ about Cannoli Cream Pie Recipe

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