Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

Introduction

Classic Cannoli Squares offer all the beloved flavors of traditional cannoli in a simple, shareable dessert form. With a creamy ricotta filling dotted with chocolate chips and wrapped in flaky pie crust, this treat is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Ricotta Cheese (use whole milk for a richer texture)
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar (substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (opt for pure vanilla for the best taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (omit if you prefer a classic cannoli flavor)
• 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (dark chocolate enhances richness)
• 2 pre-made pie crusts (homemade crust works beautifully, too)
• 1 large Egg (for an egg wash that gives a glossy finish)
• Sugar (for sprinkling; adds a sweet crunch on top when baked)
• 1/4 cup Chopped Pistachios (offers a delightful crunch and color)
• 3 pieces Maraschino Cherries (adds a pop of sweetness and decoration)
• 1/4 cup Extra Chocolate Chips (for those who can’t get enough chocolate)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Step 3: Unroll one pie crust and fit it into a 9×9-inch baking dish, pressing it gently into the corners.
4. Step 4: Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly over the pie crust.
5. Step 5: Place the second pie crust over the filling, sealing the edges by pinching or pressing with a fork.
6. Step 6: Beat the egg and brush it over the top crust. Sprinkle sugar evenly on top for a sweet and crunchy finish.
7. Step 7: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
8. Step 8: Let the dessert cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish each square with chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, and extra chocolate chips as desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, skip the pistachios and add toasted coconut flakes for extra texture.
• Use homemade pie crust for a fresher, more buttery flavor.
• Try substituting ricotta with mascarpone for an even creamier filling.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature depending on your preference.

Storage

Store leftover cannoli squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste best when enjoyed within the first day. Reheat briefly in a warm oven if you prefer a warm dessert, but avoid microwaving to keep the crust crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ricotta filling a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and whisk lightly before assembling.

Can I freeze the cannoli squares?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the crust and ricotta filling may change after thawing. For best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerated.

Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

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4.9 from 126 reviews

Classic Cannoli Squares offer a delightful twist on the traditional Italian cannoli, featuring a creamy ricotta filling blended with powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips sandwiched between flaky pie crusts. They’re baked to golden perfection, topped with a glossy egg wash and sugar sprinkle, then garnished with chopped pistachios and maraschino cherries for an elegant, crunchy finish. Perfect for dessert lovers craving the rich, creamy texture and bold flavors of cannoli in an easy-to-cut bar form.

• Author: lucas
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 16 squares 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Filling

• 2 cups Ricotta Cheese (use whole milk for a richer texture)
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar (substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (opt for pure vanilla for the best taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (omit if you prefer a classic cannoli flavor)
• 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (dark chocolate enhances richness)

Crust and Topping

• 2 pre-made Pie Crusts (homemade crust works beautifully, too)
• 1 large Egg (for an egg wash that gives a glossy finish)
• Sugar (for sprinkling, adds a sweet crunch on top when baked)
• 1/4 cup Chopped Pistachios (offers a delightful crunch and color)
• 3 pieces Maraschino Cherries (adds a pop of sweetness and decoration)
• 1/4 cup Extra Chocolate Chips (for those who can’t get enough chocolate)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal baking temperature by the time your squares are assembled.
3. Line the Baking Dish: Unroll one of the pre-made pie crusts and carefully fit it into a 9×9-inch baking dish, pressing it gently to cover the bottom and sides evenly.
4. Fill the Crust: Spoon the prepared ricotta filling evenly over the pie crust layer, spreading it out to cover the entire surface uniformly.
5. Add the Top Crust: Place the second pie crust over the ricotta filling, sealing the edges by pinching them together. This will lock in the filling during baking.
6. Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Beat the large egg and brush it over the top crust to give it a beautiful, glossy finish when baked. Then, sprinkle sugar evenly over the top for added sweetness and a crunchy texture.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool and Garnish: Remove from oven and allow the cannoli squares to cool for at least 30 minutes to set the filling. Once cooled, cut into squares and garnish with chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, and extra chocolate chips for added flavor and decoration.

Notes

• You can omit the cinnamon if you prefer a more traditional cannoli flavor.
• For a healthier take, substitute powdered sugar with coconut sugar in the filling.
• Make sure to let the squares cool completely before cutting to maintain their shape.
• Homemade pie crust can be used instead of pre-made for a fresher taste and texture.
• Use dark chocolate mini chips for a richer flavor contrast in the filling.
• Chill the ricotta cheese before mixing to improve the texture of the filling.

Keywords: cannoli squares, ricotta dessert, Italian dessert, baked cannoli, chocolate chip dessert, easy cannoli recipe, pie crust dessert