The Perfect Side Dish To Serve With Cannoli Dip

Cannoli dip is a creamy and delicious dessert dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just having a few friends over for dessert, it’s always a hit. This dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. 

But what to serve with cannoli dip? What side dishes will bring out the best of the creamy, indulgent flavors of cannoli dip? Here are some of our favorite side dishes to enjoy with cannoli dip. Some of them I personally preferred as dessert, and I am sure if you are a dessert lover like me, you will also enjoy it.

In short - What to Serve with Cannoli Dip

Fruit Skewers, Cookies & Cream Dippers, Chocolate Fondue, Fruit Salad, Savory Breads & Spreads, Chocolate-Dipped Fruit, Graham Crackers, Apples, Pretzels, Marshmallows, Vanilla Wafers, Pound Cake, Bananas, Pecans, Pineapple Slices, Almonds, Fried Mozzarella Sticks, Coconut Shavings, Peaches, Animal Crackers

What is cannoli dip? What does cannoli dip taste like?

Cannoli dip is a creamy, sweet Italian dessert. It’s made with ricotta cheese and powdered sugar and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla extract. The dip has a smooth texture and subtle sweetness that makes it great for dipping fruits or cookies. 

It can also be used as an accompaniment to more savory dishes like pizza or sandwiches. Cannoli dip typically has a mild yet flavorful taste that will delight any palate. Enjoy this delicious treat on its own, or pair it up with your favorite dippers for an extra special treat!

20 sides to serve with cannoli dip

1. Fruit Skewers 

Fruit skewers are a great accompaniment to any dessert dip. They provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sweetness of cannoli dip and add an extra burst of flavor. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time and can be served as-is or with yogurt or honey for dipping. 

 Fruit Skewers

All you need is your favorite fruits (strawberries, pineapple, blueberries, kiwi—the possibilities are endless!), wooden skewers, and some fresh herbs like mint or basil. 

2. Cookies & Cream Dippers 

For something a bit heartier than fruit skewers, cookies & cream diapers are the way to go. Simply take your favorite cookie (we suggest chocolate chip) and cut them into strips.

Then pair them with vanilla ice cream for dipping into your cannoli dip! This combination is sure to tantalize taste buds at any gathering. 

3. Chocolate Fondue 

What pairs better with cannoli dip than chocolate? Nothing! That’s why chocolate fondue is always a great choice when serving cannoli dip as part of your dessert table spread. 

Chocolate Fondue 

All you need is some dark chocolate chips (or semi-sweet if that’s more your speed) and heavy cream/milk/butter (to help thin out the consistency); if desired, add in some flavoring like orange extract or peppermint oil too! 

4. Fruit Salad 

Adding light and refreshing fruit salad to your cannoli dip spread is a great way to cut through the richness of the dish. You can use any combination of fresh fruits – strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, grapes, pineapple chunks – or you can get creative and try something different like kiwi or dragon fruit. 

Fruit Salad

For an extra special touch and added sweetness, top your fruit salad with some honey or agave syrup and sprinkle it with shredded coconut. This is an especially good option for those who want something a little bit lighter than traditional cannoli dip. 

Know More: Fruit Salad Toppings ideas to serve with fruit salad to Transform Your Desserts

5. Savory Breads & Spreads 

If you want something savory to serve alongside your cannoli dip, why not try some savory bread and spreads? Breadsticks, crostini, and crackers – are all excellent choices for serving alongside your cannoli dip.

As far as spreads go, hummus, pesto sauce or olive tapenade are all tasty options that will add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cannoli dip.

You could also make your own spread by mixing together cream cheese and chopped olives or roasted red peppers. Experimenting with different flavors is always fun to find new combinations that work well together! 

6. Chocolate-Dipped Fruit 

Chocolate-dipped fruit is always a crowd-pleaser! Simply take some fresh fruit (strawberries are especially good) and melt down some dark chocolate chips in the microwave until they’re melted and smooth.

Dip each piece of fruit into the chocolate until it’s fully coated, and let it cool on wax paper until set. Once set, you can enjoy these chocolaty treats alongside your cannoli dip – just be sure to have plenty on hand because they tend to disappear quickly! 

7. Graham Crackers

Graham Crackers

For those looking for a simple and easy snack, graham crackers are an ideal choice. Their crunchy texture adds a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the cannoli dip, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

8. Apples

Another great way to enjoy cannoli dip is with crisp apple slices. The tartness of the apples helps to cut through the creaminess of the dip, making it even more enjoyable to eat.

9. Pretzels

Salty pretzels dipped in cannoli dip make for an incredibly tasty snack that everyone will love. The saltiness of the pretzel provides a great contrast to the sweetness of the dip, creating ultimately flavorful bites!

10. Marshmallows

Toasted marshmallows can be enjoyed with cannoli dip in a variety of ways; either right out of the bag or melted together over an open fire!

Marshmallows

The lightness and fluffy texture of marshmallows goes perfectly with the richness of this dessert condiment.

11. Vanilla Wafers

Enjoying this Italian-inspired delicacy doesn’t have to be complicated! Vanilla wafers dipped into cannoli dip provide an easy yet scrumptious snack that can be eaten on the go or served on any occasion!

12. Pound Cake

Pound cake is another great food item to pair with cannoli dip for a decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

The thick texture and subtle sweetness of pound cake make it particularly suitable for dipping in this delicious sauce!

Know More: What to Serve with Corn Cakes

13. Bananas

Bananas are another favorite food item when it comes to enjoying cannoli dip, as their natural sweetness pairs well with this unique sauce’s flavor profile!

Cut your bananas into slices for easy dipping at parties or just as an afternoon snack!

14. Pecans

If you want things on the crunchier side, try adding some pecans to your cannoli dip pairing repertoire! Their nutty flavor will complement the sweetness while providing an extra satisfying texture with each bite!

15. Pineapple Slices

With its juicy and slightly tart taste, pineapple makes for a delightful addition when pairing food items with cannoli dip!

Pineapple Slices

Each bite is sure to bring out different layers in taste as you savor both components together!

16. Almonds

Almonds add an additional layer of texture and flavor when paired with this Italian specialty like cannoli dip!

Enjoy them either plain or roasted — they’ll provide plenty of crunches while still allowing you to savor all that goodness from dipping your snacks in this creamy condiment!

17. Fried Mozzarella Sticks

Fried mozzarella sticks are always fun party appetizers but get even better when paired with some cannoli dip on top for extra indulgence! (Recipe)

Not only does it add delicious flavoring, but it also creates interesting textures within one bite – you won’t want to miss out on trying this combo!

18. Coconut Shavings

Coconut shavings offer a completely different experience from other foods – its lighter texture allows it to absorb all that yummy dip without being too soggy!

Plus, its slight hint of sweetness adds another delectable layer that pairs perfectly with creamy comfort food like Cannoli!

Know More: Best salads Paring with Coconut Shrimp

19. Peaches

If you’re looking for something more tropical, then don’t forget about peaches!

Their velvety softness combined with their naturally sweet juices makes them an ideal vehicle for transporting all those scrumptious flavors from cannoli’s dips, making them a popular combination!

20. Animal Crackers

Last but not least, animal crackers should definitely not be forgotten, as they are absolute dynamite when combined together with cannoli dips!

Not only do they provide delightful crunchy textures, but their neutral taste also lets you really appreciate all those subtle nuances within each spoonful worth …. Mmmmm! Enjoy!

 

What are the best flavors to go with cannoli dip?

The best flavors to accompany cannoli dip depend on personal preference, but some of the most popular flavor combinations include classic Italian flavors such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ricotta cheese. 

Other delicious options include adding chopped pistachios or dark chocolate chips for a more indulgent experience. For a sweeter dip, combine cream cheese with vanilla extract and mini marshmallows for an amazing sweet treat! Whichever flavors you choose to add to your cannoli dip, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!

How do you jazz up cannoli dip?

One way to jazz up cannoli dip is to mix in a variety of flavorful ingredients. Try adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pistachios, for crunch and texture. Or try stirring in some dried fruits, like cranberries or cherries, for sweetness and tartness. 

You could also add a few chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the dip for an extra hint of indulgence. For an even more creative twist, stir in some cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices that you enjoy! Finally, don’t forget to top off this delicious dip with your favorite whipped cream and sprinkle it with confectioner’s sugar. Enjoy!

How do you display cannoli dip on a platter?

When displaying cannoli dip on a platter, it’s important to create an attractive arrangement that will make the dish look delicious. Start by spreading the dip in the center of the platter. 

Add some decorative toppings such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and dried fruit pieces around the edge of the dip. Arrange sliced strawberries or other colorful fruits around the edges of the platter for added color and decoration. 

Place cannoli shells on either side of the dip to scoop up dip portions when serving. Finally, sprinkle some powdered sugar over the top for a finishing touch! With this beautiful presentation, you’ll be sure to impress your guests!

For an even more creative display, you can pipe the dip into individual cannoli shells. Place them in a circular pattern on the platter, then use colorful edible decorations such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and dried fruits to fill any gaps.

This will create an eye-catching presentation that is sure to impress your guests! 

You can also add dips like ricotta or mascarpone cheese in flavors such as lemon and raspberry for added flavor. Arrange these around the edges of the platter for a delicious display. Lastly, top it off with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.

With these simple steps, you’ll be able to create an impressive and delicious dish that everyone will love! Enjoy your cannoli dip platter!

Wrap Up on What to serve with Cannoli Dip

Cannoli dip doesn’t have to be served alone; there are lots of delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with it! Whether you choose fruit skewers for something light and refreshing or chocolate fondue for something indulgent—the options are endless when it comes to serving up the perfect side dishes with your cannoli dip. 

And don’t forget about more creative options, such as fruit salads or chocolate-dipped fruit, that can really take things up a notch! So next time you’re looking for the perfect side dish for your cannoli dip, make sure you consider all the delicious possibilities!

FAQs

How much cannoli dip per person?

When serving cannoli dip to a group of people, it is recommended that you serve approximately 3-4 tablespoons of the dip per person. Of course, this amount can vary depending on the size of your servings and the preferences of your guests. 

For instance, if you are hosting a party with many guests, you may want to provide more than 4 tablespoons of dip per person so that everyone gets enough. 

Alternatively, if there are only a few guests attending or they have smaller appetites, 1-2 tablespoons each should be sufficient. When in doubt, err on the side of having more available! Additionally, make sure to provide some dipped treats, such as cookies or pieces of fruit for dipping so that your guests can truly enjoy their cannoli.

What to pair with Trader Joe’s cannoli dip?

The sweetness of Trader Joe’s cannoli dip is a great way to end any meal. To truly make the most of this delicious treat, we recommend pairing it with some sweet and salty snacks! Here are a few ideas:

Salty crackers – Choose a flavor that will complement the creamy sweetness of the dip. Try something like rosemary or olive oil-flavored crackers.

Sweet cookies – Shortbread cookies are the perfect partner for this rich dessert dip. The texture and flavor combination is unbeatable!

Fruit slices – If you want to keep things light, opt for fresh fruit slices like apples or pears. They add just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the dish.

Nuts – Add some crunch to the mix with a handful of nuts such as almonds, walnuts or pecans. They can be salted and spiced to add another layer of flavor.

No matter what you choose to pair with Trader Joe’s cannoli dip, you can be sure it will be a delicious combination! Enjoy!

Does cannoli dip need to be refrigerated?

Yes, cannoli dip needs to be refrigerated. Cannoli dip is made with cream cheese and mascarpone, both of which are dairy products that should be kept cold. 

If you plan to serve the dip within a few hours of making it, you can keep it out at room temperature. But if not, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. For best results, use the cannoli dip within 3-4 days of making it. Enjoy!

Do you eat cannoli hot or cold?

The answer to this question really depends on personal preference. Some people prefer cannolis cold, while others enjoy them warm. If you are eating a cannoli at a restaurant or bakery, it is likely that it will be served warm. 

However, if you make your own cannoli at home, you can choose to eat them hot or cold. Whichever way you choose to eat them, there’s no doubt that they are delicious! Enjoy.

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