Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Desserts like this are patient. You can prepare the filling a day ahead and keep it chilled. Fill the phyllo cups a few hours before serving for the best texture.

Can I use ricotta from the supermarket or should I make my own?

Store-bought ricotta is fine when it is fresh. If your ricotta is very wet, drain it. Homemade ricotta is lovely, but not required for success.

Are the phyllo cups gluten free?

Most mini phyllo cups contain wheat. Look for specialty gluten-free shells if you need a gluten-free option. Alternatively, small tart shells made from gluten-free pastry can work.

How do I keep the phyllo from becoming soggy?

Pipe the filling shortly before serving or keep the filled cups refrigerated and covered. Filling too early allows moisture to soften the shells.

Can I substitute mascarpone?

You can, but the texture will change. Cream cheese thinned with a little heavy cream can be a stand-in. The mascarpone gives a particular Italian creaminess that is worth seeking.

Easy Mini Cannoli Cups 2026

Name: Mini Cannoli Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Mini phyllo cups; Chocolate chips; Chopped pistachios (optional); Cocoa powder for dusting (optional)

Description

Delicious mini cannoli cups filled with a creamy ricotta and mascarpone filling, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mini phyllo cups
Chocolate chips
Chopped pistachios (optional)
Cocoa powder for dusting (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Spoon the mixture into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.
Pipe the cannoli filling into the mini phyllo cups.
Top with chocolate chips and chopped pistachios if desired.
Dust with cocoa powder before serving.
Chill until ready to serve for at least 30 minutes.

Notes

For a lighter version, fold in a tablespoon of whipped cream to the filling before piping. Keep filled cups refrigerated and covered to prevent sogginess.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Chilling
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 20mg