High Protein Cannoli Dip

Created on December 19th, 2025 at 10:40 am

Creamy cannoli flavor with extra protein

There is something so nostalgic about cannoli flavor, that sweet vanilla creaminess with a little cinnamon warmth and chocolate tucked into every bite. This dip brings that bakery comfort into the everyday, the kind of treat you can scoop up with fruit while the kitchen feels calm and familiar.

It is light but still cozy, creamy but not heavy, and it has that happy American Italian dessert energy that makes everyone hover near the bowl. Perfect for an afternoon snack, a movie night plate, or that moment when you want something sweet that still feels good.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

Kitchen Utensils

This dip is quick and simple. A fast whip is all it takes to make it fluffy and scoopable.

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or whisk (or food processor)
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microplane or fine grater (for zest)

The Story Behind the Dish

Cannoli always felt like a celebration in our world. Not an everyday dessert, but the kind of sweet you brought home in a little box, saving it for after dinner when everyone was lingering at the table. The filling was the best part, creamy and vanilla scented, with those tiny chocolate bits that made it feel special.

This dip is my snack friendly version of that filling, with a little more of a wholesome feel. Greek yogurt brings protein and tang, ricotta keeps it classic and creamy, and the flavor still tastes like that familiar bakery moment. It is a small way to bring a little American Italian sweetness into a regular day.

Ingredients

For the Dip

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2 percent or whole)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, but very cannoli)
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

Optional Protein Boost

• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (whey or plant based)

For Serving

• Strawberries
• Apple slices
• Grapes
• Whole grain graham crackers or whole grain wafers
• Toasted pita crisps (sweet style)

Instructions

This is one of those recipes that feels like a treat the second you taste it, but it comes together in minutes. Whip it until it is fluffy, then let the chocolate chips do their magic.

1. Add ricotta and Greek yogurt to a mixing bowl.
2. Add honey, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and orange zest if using.
3. Whip with a hand mixer for 30 to 60 seconds until smooth and fluffy. (A whisk works too, it will just be a little less airy.)
4. If using protein powder, add it now and mix until fully combined.
5. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
6. Spoon into a serving bowl. Top with a few extra chips and a pinch of cinnamon if you like.
7. Serve with fruit and whole grain crackers for dipping.

Tips & Substitutions

• For the thickest dip: drain ricotta for 10 minutes in a fine mesh strainer, then whip.
• Sweeter or less sweet: start with 2 tablespoons honey, taste, then add more.
• No orange zest: skip it, or use a tiny bit of lemon zest for brightness.
• Chocolate swap: use chopped dark chocolate for a more grown up bite.
• Cottage cheese option: blend cottage cheese until smooth, then use it in place of ricotta.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Store: keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Make ahead: it tastes even better after chilling 1 to 2 hours.
• Stir before serving: the dip can thicken in the fridge, just give it a quick stir.

FAQ

Can I make this without protein powder?
Yes. It is still naturally high in protein from the Greek yogurt and ricotta.

Why does my dip taste tangy?
Greek yogurt can be tangy depending on the brand. Add a touch more honey and a little extra vanilla.

How do I make it thicker?
Drain the ricotta, use whole milk Greek yogurt, and chill the dip before serving.

What are the best dippers?
Strawberries, apple slices, grapes, and whole grain graham crackers are all perfect.

A Warm Closing

If you love cannoli flavor but want something you can scoop up as a snack, this dip is the sweetest little compromise. Keep it in the fridge for those cozy cravings, and share it with someone who always reaches for dessert first. Save it for later, because this is the kind of bowl that disappears fast.