These irresistible Mini Cannoli Cups are the ultimate no-bake Italian dessert—quick, elegant, and absolutely bursting with creamy, chocolate-studded filling! If you’re looking to wow your guests with a sweet treat that’s big on flavor and presentation but refreshingly easy to pull together, this is the recipe to save. Crispy, bite-sized phyllo shells cradle a luscious ricotta-mascarpone blend laced with chocolate chips, a hint of orange, and a dusting of cinnamon. Whether you’re prepping for a dinner party or just want a special weeknight treat, Mini Cannoli Cups promise pure joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about Mini Cannoli Cups is how a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients come together to deliver authentic Italian flavor without any fuss. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need, plus how each element shines in this playful dessert:

Mini phyllo shells: These crispy cups are a time-saver and mimic the crunch you love in classic cannoli.
Whole milk ricotta cheese (drained): For dreamy, creamy filling, drain well so the texture is thick and not watery.
Mascarpone cheese (softened): Adds extra richness and silkiness—think of it as ricotta’s more luxurious cousin.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the mix while blending smoothly into the cheeses, unlike granulated sugar.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with warm, aromatic notes.
Ground cinnamon: Just a touch gives subtle warmth and echoes classic cannoli flavors.
Mini chocolate chips: For decadent pops of chocolate in every bite.
Orange zest (optional): Brightens and lifts the filling surprisingly well—use it if you have a fresh orange!
Extra mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios (for topping): Finishes each cup off with flair and crunch.

How to Make Mini Cannoli Cups

Step 1: Mix the Cheeses

Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and add in the well-drained ricotta plus the softened mascarpone. Use a spatula or hand mixer to blend until they’re perfectly smooth and creamy—no graininess allowed! Draining the ricotta properly is key here to avoid a runny filling that could sog up your Mini Cannoli Cups.

Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor

Into your cheese blend, sift in the powdered sugar, then add the vanilla extract and a gentle pinch of ground cinnamon. This trio sweetens, flavors, and brings the authentic essence of a bakery-fresh cannoli. Mix until everything is beautifully incorporated.

Step 3: Fold in the Goodies

Gently fold in those adorable mini chocolate chips and the orange zest, if you’re using it. Be careful not to overmix—you want pockets of chocolate and bursts of orange in your creamy filling!

Step 4: Fill the Phyllo Shells

Only fill the phyllo shells just before serving, so they stay gorgeously crisp. Spoon or pipe the filling into the shells (piping makes it neater, but a spoon works beautifully too). This is when your Mini Cannoli Cups start to really look irresistible!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle each cup with extra chocolate chips or a pinch of chopped pistachios. This last touch adds crunch, color, and just the right flourish. Serve right away for maximum crispness, or chill for up to 2 hours if you need a little make-ahead magic.

How to Serve Mini Cannoli Cups

Garnishes

Play up the Italian dessert vibes by topping your Mini Cannoli Cups with a flurry of mini chocolate chips, a shower of crushed pistachios, or even a gentle dusting of powdered sugar. A tiny twist of fresh orange zest on top is delightful for extra color and zing!

Side Dishes

Want to turn dessert into a memorable mini feast? Set out an assortment of Italian biscotti alongside your Mini Cannoli Cups, or pair them with a bowl of macerated berries for a fresh, tangy contrast. Espresso or strong coffee is the dreamiest beverage companion, marrying perfectly with every creamy, crunchy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Level up your dessert table by arranging the Mini Cannoli Cups on a tiered cake stand, tucking in curls of orange peel and edible flowers for color. For parties, set them on small doilies or tuck into mini cupcake liners for tidy, hand-held bites that look extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (believe me, this hardly happens!), simply place the filled Mini Cannoli Cups in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 days, but keep in mind the shells will soften as they sit.

Freezing

While freshly filled is best, you can freeze the filling on its own for up to 1 month—just defrost in the fridge overnight before using. The phyllo shells, however, don’t freeze well once filled, as they lose their signature crunch.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Mini Cannoli Cups since they’re meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If the shells have softened after refrigeration, simply assemble a few fresh ones just before serving for that irresistible crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I make the filling for Mini Cannoli Cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can whip up the filling a day in advance and chill it in the fridge. Just spoon or pipe it into the phyllo cups right before serving for the ultimate crispy-creamy combo.

What can I use instead of phyllo shells?

If you can’t find mini phyllo shells, try using baked wonton wrappers folded into mini muffin tins as homemade cups, or even mini tartlet shells from the bakery section. The filling also works beautifully with crisp graham or vanilla wafer bases.

Is orange zest necessary?

Orange zest is optional, but it adds a lovely, fresh flavor that elevates the classic cannoli filling. If you don’t have an orange on hand, feel free to skip it—the Mini Cannoli Cups will still be delicious.

Can I make Mini Cannoli Cups gluten-free?

Absolutely! Look for gluten-free mini phyllo shells or alternative gluten-free tartlet shells at some specialty stores. The filling is naturally gluten-free, so the swap is simple.

How do I keep the phyllo cups from getting soggy?

Always wait to fill the cups until right before you serve them—this is the golden rule for maintaining that perfect crunch. You can prep the filling ahead of time, but save assembly for the final moments!

Final Thoughts

Honestly, there’s nothing quite like the smiles that Mini Cannoli Cups bring to the table. They’re delightfully easy, impossibly creamy, and (trust me) totally crave-worthy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started in the kitchen, you’ll love making—and eating—these charming Italian treats. Give them a try and let the compliments roll in!

Mini Cannoli Cups Recipe