This Pumpkin Cannoli Dip is a fun twist on a classic dessert! It’s creamy, sweet, and packed with pumpkin spice flavor. Perfect for dipping cookies or fruit!
Who knew that enjoying cannoli could be so easy? I love to serve this dip with graham crackers for a crunchy treat. It’s a hit at every gathering—just watch it disappear! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess to the dip. If you’re lactose intolerant, try a dairy-free ricotta made from nuts or use cream cheese for a different flavor and texture.
Mascarpone Cheese: Its rich flavor makes the dip luxurious. For a lighter option, you can substitute with Greek yogurt, though your dip will be tangier. I recommend using real mascarpone if you can—it’s worth it!
Canned Pumpkin Puree: This is essential for flavor. If you can’t find canned, you can use homemade pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid too much moisture in your dip.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the dip beautifully. If you prefer a healthier alternative, try using maple syrup or agave nectar, but adjust the amount since they are liquid sweeteners.
Mini Chocolate Chips: These add sweetness and crunch. Dark chocolate chips are a great substitution for a more intense flavor. You might also consider using chopped nuts for added texture!
How Do I Make The Dip Extra Creamy?
The key to a smooth and creamy Pumpkin Cannoli Dip is in how you prepare your ricotta and mascarpone. Follow these steps to ensure a delightful texture:
- Start with drained ricotta cheese. Place it in a cheesecloth and let it sit for about 30 minutes to remove excess liquid.
- When mixing, use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend the cheeses until they are fluffy and well combined.
- After adding the pumpkin and spices, mix just until everything is combined. Over-mixing can make it grainy.
Gently folding in the mini chocolate chips keeps the dip light and airy. Enjoy your creamy creation!
How to Make Pumpkin Cannoli Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, well drained
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, plus extra for garnish
- Whipped cream for garnish (optional)
For Serving:
- Graham crackers or cinnamon graham crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Pumpkin Cannoli Dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After making it, you can serve it immediately or chill it in the fridge for up to an hour for a cooler treat. Easy, quick, and ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Cheeses:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is key to achieving that luscious cannoli texture!
2. Adding Pumpkin and Spices:
Next, add in the canned pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Continue mixing on medium speed until everything is well combined and smooth. This is where the pumpkin spice flavor really starts to shine!
3. Incorporating Chocolate Chips:
Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently with a spatula. Be careful not to over-mix, as we want to keep the dip fluffy and airy.
4. Preparing to Serve:
Transfer the dip to a nice serving bowl. For a beautiful presentation, top it with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon, and some extra mini chocolate chips for garnish.
5. Enjoying the Dip:
Serve your pumpkin cannoli dip chilled or at room temperature. Provide graham crackers or cinnamon graham crackers alongside for dipping. Watch as everyone enjoys this creamy, seasonal treat!
This scrumptious dip captures all the delightful flavors of cannoli while adding a festive pumpkin spin. It’s perfect for fall gatherings and will surely be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Plain Cream Cheese Instead of Mascarpone?
Yes, you can substitute plain cream cheese for mascarpone, but it will give your dip a slightly different flavor and texture. To achieve creaminess, consider mixing the cream cheese with a bit of heavy cream or sour cream.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It may thicken a bit, so give it a gentle stir before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If it thickens, just stir in a little milk to loosen it up before serving.
What Can I Serve with Pumpkin Cannoli Dip Besides Graham Crackers?
In addition to graham crackers, you can serve this dip with sliced apples, pretzel crisps, cinnamon sugar pita chips, or even fresh fruit like strawberries and bananas for a delicious contrast!