Mini Cannoli Cups

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Sweet, crisp, and filled with a luscious creamy filling, Mini Cannoli Cups are a modern twist on the beloved Italian dessert. Instead of fiddling with deep-frying delicate cannoli shells, this version uses baked cups made from crispy wonton wrappers, offering a light crunch that pairs beautifully with the rich ricotta filling. They’re a bite-sized treat that manages to feel both elegant and playful.

Perfect for parties or dessert tables, these little cups are filled with a velvety mixture of ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla, and then topped with mini chocolate chips for texture and a bit of bittersweet contrast. The crispy shell mimics the original cannoli casing but with far less effort. Once dusted with powdered sugar, they’re ready to steal the spotlight at any gathering.


Ingredients for this Mini Cannoli Cups Recipe

  • 24 wonton wrappers
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (well-drained)
  • 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • Nonstick cooking spray

Step 1: Prep the Cups

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a mini muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray. Press a wonton wrapper into each cup, folding and pleating gently to fit. Brush each with melted butter and sprinkle with a mix of cinnamon and sugar.

Step 2: Bake the Shells

Bake for about 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp. Let them cool completely before removing from the pan.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest if using. Beat until smooth and creamy. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a decorative finish.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

Pipe the filling into each cooled wonton shell. Top with mini chocolate chips and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use only ricotta without mascarpone?

Yes, but mascarpone adds creaminess. If omitting, increase powdered sugar slightly for smoothness.

How do I keep the cups from getting soggy?

Fill them just before serving and ensure your ricotta is well-drained.

Can I make them ahead of time?

You can prepare the shells and filling separately a day ahead. Assemble just before serving.

What can I substitute for wonton wrappers?

Phyllo dough or pie crust circles baked in mini muffin tins are good alternatives.

Can I add other toppings?

Crushed pistachios, mini marshmallows, or candied orange peel work beautifully.

Are they gluten-free?

Not with standard wonton wrappers, but you can find or make gluten-free wrappers as an alternative.


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Mini Cannoli Cups


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 24 mini cups

Description

Crispy, creamy, and irresistibly cute, these Mini Cannoli Cups are the perfect quick dessert idea for parties, holidays, or just because. Crafted with baked wonton wrappers and filled with a rich ricotta-mascarpone cream, they bring all the flavor of traditional cannoli without the mess of frying. These easy no-fuss dessert bites are ideal for entertaining or a sweet weekend treat.

They also make a fun addition to your collection of quick breakfast treats, healthy snack swaps (in moderation!), or finger food ideas. Each bite delivers a crunch followed by smooth, sweet creaminess, making them hard to resist. They’re easy to customize and just as satisfying as their full-sized inspiration.


Ingredients

24 wonton wrappers

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (well-drained)

1/2 cup mascarpone cheese

1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Nonstick cooking spray


Instructions

  1. Prep the Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray mini muffin pan with nonstick spray. Press a wonton wrapper into each cavity, brushing with melted butter and dusting with cinnamon sugar.
  2. Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes or until golden and crispy. Cool completely in the pan.
  3. Make Filling: Mix ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange zest (optional) in a bowl until creamy. Pipe into a pastry bag.
  4. Assemble: Pipe filling into cooled wonton cups. Top with mini chocolate chips. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert

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