Introduction
These Mini Cannoli Wonton Cups deliver all the creamy, chocolate-studded goodness of classic cannoli in an easy, bite-sized dessert. Instead of making traditional pastry shells, wonton wrappers are brushed with melted butter, sprinkled with sugar, and baked until crisp and golden.
The filling combines ricotta cheese, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon for a smooth, lightly spiced cannoli-inspired cream. Mini chocolate chips add just the right amount of chocolate in every bite. With only a few simple steps and no deep-frying required, these little dessert cups are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, dessert tables, or an easy homemade treat.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Traditional cannoli are associated with Sicilian cuisine. They feature crisp pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta, often finished with chocolate, candied fruit, or chopped nuts.
This modern variation takes inspiration from those classic flavors while using wonton wrappers as a convenient shortcut. The result is not a traditional cannolo, but a simple, party-friendly dessert that captures the spirit of cannoli with less preparation.
Ingredients
For the Wonton Cups
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cannoli-Inspired Filling
- 1 cup (240 g) whole-milk ricotta cheese, well drained
- 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup (40 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup (57 g) mini chocolate chips
Optional Additions
- 1 tsp finely grated orange zest for a fresh citrus note
- 2 tbsp finely chopped pistachios for a traditional cannoli-inspired garnish
- A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving
- A little extra cinnamon for a warmer flavor
- Finely chopped dark chocolate in place of some of the mini chocolate chips
Tips for Success
- Drain the ricotta well: Excess moisture can make the filling loose. Drain it in a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth in the refrigerator.
- Use softened cream cheese: This helps the filling blend smoothly without lumps.
- Avoid overfilling the cups: Pipe the filling just before serving to help preserve the crisp shells.
- Cool the shells completely: Warm shells can soften the filling and cause condensation.
- Keep the filling chilled: Refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the desserts.
- Watch the baking time: Wonton wrappers are thin and can brown quickly. Remove them when the edges are crisp and golden.
- Fill shortly before serving: For the best contrast between the crunchy shell and creamy center, assemble the cups close to serving time.
Instructions
Prepare the Wonton Cups
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan.
- Brush each wonton wrapper lightly with melted butter.
- Press one wrapper into each muffin cup, shaping it into a small cup. Gently fold the corners as needed.
- Sprinkle the wrappers lightly with granulated sugar.
- Bake for 7–9 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and golden.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the wonton cups cool completely before carefully removing them.
Make the Cannoli Filling
- Add the well-drained ricotta, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon to a mixing bowl.
- Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Fold in most of the mini chocolate chips, reserving some for garnish.
- Cover and refrigerate the filling until ready to assemble.
Fill and Serve
- Transfer the chilled filling to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off.
- Pipe the filling into the completely cooled wonton cups shortly before serving.
- Sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips over the filling.
- Add any optional garnishes, such as chopped pistachios, orange zest, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
- Arrange the cups on a serving platter and enjoy while the shells are crisp.
Description
Mini Cannoli Wonton Cups feature crisp, golden shells filled with a rich, creamy ricotta and cream cheese mixture. Vanilla and cinnamon add warmth, while mini chocolate chips provide little bursts of chocolate throughout the filling. They’re easy to prepare, attractive on a dessert platter, and deliver cannoli-inspired flavor without rolling pastry dough or deep-frying shells.
Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving, based on 1 filled cup and 12 servings:
- Calories: 150–180
- Protein: 4–5 g
- Carbohydrates: 14–18 g
- Fat: 8–11 g
- Sugar: 6–9 g
Actual values will vary depending on the brands used, the amount of butter absorbed by the wrappers, and the exact quantity of filling in each cup.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7–9 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes, or until the filling is cold
- Total Time: Approximately 30–60 minutes
- Servings: 12 mini cups
- Oven Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Conclusion
These Mini Cannoli Wonton Cups are a simple way to enjoy the flavors of cannoli in a convenient bite-sized format. The crisp, buttery shells contrast beautifully with the cool ricotta filling, while mini chocolate chips make every cup feel like a little bakery-style treat.
They’re easy to prepare ahead, require no deep-frying, and look lovely on a dessert table.
Recommendation
For parties, prepare the shells and filling separately a day ahead. Store the cooled shells in an airtight container at room temperature and keep the filling covered in the refrigerator. Pipe the filling into the cups shortly before serving, then finish with chocolate chips or chopped pistachios.
For the best texture, avoid filling the cups too early, as the moisture in the ricotta mixture will gradually soften the shells.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
These mini desserts offer built-in portion control while still delivering a satisfying combination of creamy filling and crisp pastry. For a slightly less sweet version, reduce the powdered sugar to taste and use dark chocolate chips. Enjoy them as a small treat alongside fresh berries or seasonal fruit.