Looking for a dessert that’s creamy, zesty, and irresistibly nutty? This Pistachio Lemon Cannoli Dip delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy in every bite. Inspired by classic Italian cannoli, this dip combines ricotta, mascarpone, lemon zest, and crushed pistachios for a luxurious treat that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or a fun family dessert.
Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s best served with fresh fruit, cookies, or biscotti for dipping.
Ingredients
Serves 8–10
Dip Base:
- 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
- 1 cup (250g) mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Mix-Ins and Topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted pistachios, divided
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
For Serving:
- Fresh fruit (strawberries, apple slices, or pear slices)
- Biscotti or vanilla wafers
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
- Total time: Approximately 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Base
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta and mascarpone cheeses.
- Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
Step 3: Fold in Mix-Ins
- Gently fold in 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios and chocolate chips if using.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon flavor as desired.
Step 4: Chill the Dip
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup chopped pistachios on top.
- Serve with fresh fruit, biscotti, vanilla wafers, or graham crackers for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for parties, bridal showers, or holiday gatherings.
- Great as a dessert tray centerpiece with assorted dippers.
- Pair with sparkling wine or a light dessert cocktail.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1/8 dip) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 6 grams |
| Total Fat | 16 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 14 grams |
| Sugars | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 65 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Ricotta and mascarpone provide protein and a creamy texture.
- Pistachios add healthy fats, crunch, and a nutty flavor.
- Lemon zest and juice brighten the dip while keeping it light and refreshing.
- Optional chocolate chips add sweetness and texture for an extra indulgent twist.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ricotta and mascarpone for the creamiest dip.
- Ensure ricotta is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Chill the dip to allow flavors to meld and thicken.
- Toast pistachios lightly for a more intense nutty flavor.
Variations to Try
- Swap lemon for orange zest and juice for a citrus twist.
- Fold in finely chopped dark chocolate instead of chocolate chips.
- Add a splash of amaretto or limoncello for an adult-friendly version.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute half the mascarpone with Greek yogurt.
This Pistachio Lemon Cannoli Dip offers all the flavors of classic Italian cannoli in a creamy, easy-to-serve format. With the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty notes, it’s a dessert that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Whether for entertaining or a cozy night at home, this dip is sure to delight every palate. It’s a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy the taste of cannoli without the hassle of deep-frying shells.