If you adore the whimsy of Italian desserts and crave something that dances on your tongue with every bite, then the Chocolate Cannoli Pizzelle Sandwiches Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful treat marries the crisp, delicate texture of traditional pizzelle cookies with a luscious, creamy filling inspired by classic cannoli, all studded with mini chocolate chips and brightened by zesty orange. The addition of chopped pistachios adds a perfect crunch and nutty richness that makes this dessert truly unforgettable. It’s a fun twist on the everyday cannoli, perfect to impress guests or bring a smile to family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each item plays a vital role, contributing subtle textures and flavor layers, making the Chocolate Cannoli Pizzelle Sandwiches a harmonious bite-sized pleasure.
- 12 pizzelle cookies: Crisp, thin Italian waffle cookies that form the perfect sandwich base.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy, mild sweetness with a velvety texture that’s essential for the filling.
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese: Adds richness and smoothness, elevating the filling’s decadence.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling gently without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, fragrant note that perfectly complements the cheeses.
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips: Tiny bursts of chocolateed goodness for a joyful surprise in every bite.
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios: Adds a satisfying crunch and a beautiful green speckle to the filling.
- Zest of 1 orange: Brings brightness and a refreshing citrus aroma that balances the richness.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: A final light dust to add a touch of elegance and sweetness on top.
How to Make Chocolate Cannoli Pizzelle Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Filling
Start by combining ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Mix them together until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture that will make the filling irresistibly silky to savor.
Step 2: Fold in Flavorful Additions
Next, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and fresh orange zest. This step is where your filling begins to come alive — the chocolate chips add playful bursts of chocolate, while the orange zest enhances every bite with a zesty brightness.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Take one pizzelle cookie and spread a generous spoonful of your luscious ricotta mixture over its flat surface. Don’t be shy here — this creamy layer is what makes the sandwich truly special.
Step 4: Add a Crunch with Pistachios
Sprinkle chopped pistachios evenly over the cheese layer. These little nuts bring a satisfying crunch and a nutty depth of flavor that perfectly complements the smooth filling.
Step 5: Top and Secure
Place another pizzelle cookie gently on top to create a sandwich. Press slightly to secure the filling between the pizzelle without breaking their delicate texture.
Step 6: Repeat Until All are Made
Continue this assembly process with the remaining pizzelle cookies and filling. This is the perfect time to sneak a taste of that creamy filling—it’s just as delicious on its own!
Step 7: Present with a Sweet Finish
Lay the completed sandwiches neatly on a serving platter and give them a light dusting of powdered sugar. This final touch adds a snowy sweetness and elevates their beautiful presentation.
How to Serve Chocolate Cannoli Pizzelle Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped pistachios or a few fresh orange zest curls can make these sandwiches look even more inviting. A little drizzle of melted chocolate over the top also adds drama and decadence.
Side Dishes
Serve these sandwiches alongside a cup of espresso or a sweet dessert wine for a classic Italian-inspired pairing. Fresh berries or a light fruit salad also bring a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the filling.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive occasion, arrange the sandwiches on a tiered dessert stand or place them inside a decorative box tied with a ribbon, turning them into charming edible gifts. They also make stunning additions to a holiday cookie tray or a party dessert buffet.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Chocolate Cannoli Pizzelle Sandwiches in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep their texture and flavor up to 2 days, making them a convenient treat for later enjoyment.
Freezing
Because of their delicate pizzelle shells, freezing is not recommended as it can compromise the crispness and cause the filling to become watery upon thawing. Instead, enjoy them fresh for the best experience.
Reheating
Since these sandwiches are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer a slightly softened filling, simply let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizzelle cookies for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizzelle cookies work wonderfully and save time. Just be sure they are fresh and crisp for the best texture.
What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?
If mascarpone isn’t available, you can substitute with cream cheese, but the filling may be a bit tangier. Mixing cream cheese with a little heavy cream can help mimic mascarpone’s smooth texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe nut-free?
Certainly! Simply omit the pistachios and you’ll still have a delicious and creamy sandwich. For added texture, you might try toasted coconut flakes instead if there are no coconut allergies.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, you can make the filling a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to use. Just give it a quick stir before assembling the sandwiches.
How should I serve these if not eating immediately?
If you’re serving them later in the day, assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the pizzelle crisp. Alternatively, store the filling and pizzelle separately and assemble when ready.
Final Thoughts
There is something so joyful and playful about the Chocolate Cannoli Pizzelle Sandwiches Recipe that it instantly brightens any dessert table. Its delightful combination of creamy filling, bright citrus, crunchy nuts, and crisp pizzelle cookies is an absolute showstopper. Give this recipe a try—it’s not just a treat for the palate, but a little celebration in every bite that you’ll want to share with everyone you love.
Print
Chocolate Cannoli Pizzelle Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 sandwiches
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These Chocolate Cannoli Pizzelle Sandwiches combine the crisp texture of traditional Italian pizzelle cookies with a creamy, sweet ricotta and mascarpone filling enhanced by chocolate chips and orange zest. Finished with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios and powdered sugar, these delightful no-bake treats offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture for an elegant dessert or an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 12 pizzelle cookies
Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Zest of 1 orange
Topping
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add flavorings: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and orange zest into the cheese mixture, distributing them evenly without deflating the mixture.
- Assemble the first layer: Take one pizzelle cookie and spread a generous spoonful of the ricotta mixture onto the flat side, evenly covering the surface without overflowing.
- Add pistachios: Sprinkle a layer of chopped pistachios over the cheese filling, providing a nutty crunch and flavor contrast.
- Form the sandwich: Place a second pizzelle cookie on top of the pistachios, pressing gently to secure the layers together without breaking the delicate cookies.
- Repeat assembly: Continue assembling the remaining pizzelle cookies and filling, making a total of 12 sandwiches.
- Final touch: Arrange the sandwiches on a serving platter and dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar for a decorative and sweet finish. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh ricotta and mascarpone cheese for the best creamy texture.
- If pizzelle cookies are unavailable, thin, crisp waffle cookies can be substituted.
- For added flavor, you may add a splash of orange liqueur to the filling mixture.
- These sandwiches can be made a few hours in advance and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving.
- To make the recipe gluten-free, ensure the pizzelle cookies are made with gluten-free flour.
