Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

Introduction

Classic Cannoli Squares combine the creamy, sweet ricotta filling of traditional cannoli with the ease of a simple baked dessert. These squares are perfect for a crowd or when you want to enjoy cannoli flavors without the fuss of frying shells.

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 the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Whisk until the mixture is 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 firmly to cover the bottom and sides.
4. Step 4: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pie crust in the baking dish.
5. Step 5: Place the second pie crust over the filling, carefully sealing the edges by pinching or crimping. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle sugar evenly over it.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
8. Step 8: Garnish each square with chopped pistachios, a maraschino cherry, and a sprinkle of extra chocolate chips before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter filling, drain the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh sieve overnight to remove excess moisture.
• Use homemade pie crust for a more buttery and flaky texture.
• Swap cinnamon for a pinch of nutmeg or orange zest to create a different flavor profile.
• Try substituting mini chocolate chips with white chocolate or chopped candied fruit for variety.
• Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled squares for a finishing touch.

Storage

Store leftover cannoli squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in a low oven or enjoy chilled. Avoid freezing, as the ricotta filling may change texture when thawed.

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 keep it refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before assembling the squares.

What if I don’t have pre-made pie crusts?

You can use a homemade pie crust recipe or a store-bought puff pastry as a substitute. Just adjust baking times if needed depending on the pastry thickness.

Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

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5 from 56 reviews

Classic Cannoli Squares are a delicious twist on the traditional Italian cannoli, featuring a creamy ricotta and chocolate chip filling sandwiched between flaky, golden-baked pie crusts. This easy-to-make dessert combines the rich flavors of sweetened ricotta, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate chips, finished with a glossy egg wash and a sprinkling of sugar for a delightful crunch. Garnished with chopped pistachios and maraschino cherries, these squares are perfect for gatherings or an indulgent treat.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 9 servings (one 9×9-inch pan, cut into 9 squares) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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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)

Garnish

• 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 the mixture until it is completely smooth and well incorporated to ensure a creamy and flavorful filling.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the cannoli squares, ensuring it reaches the optimal temperature for a perfectly golden crust.
3. Line the Baking Dish: Unroll one pre-made pie crust and carefully fit it into a 9×9-inch baking dish, pressing it into the corners and smoothing it out to form the base layer of your dessert.
4. Assemble Filling: Spoon the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the prepared pie crust base in the baking dish, spreading it carefully to the edges for uniform thickness.
5. Top with Second Crust: Place the second pie crust over the ricotta filling, gently sealing the edges by pressing them together to encase the filling inside the crust.
6. Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Beat the large egg and brush it over the top crust evenly, which will give the crust a shiny, golden finish once baked. Then, sprinkle sugar generously over the top to add a sweet crunch.
7. Bake: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and allow the cannoli squares to cool for at least 30 minutes. After cooling, cut into squares, sprinkle chopped pistachios and extra chocolate chips on top, and garnish each square with a maraschino cherry for a colorful and flavorful finish.

Notes

• Use whole milk ricotta for a richer and creamier filling.
• For a healthier alternative, substitute powdered sugar with coconut sugar.
• If you prefer a classic cannoli flavor, omit the cinnamon.
• Ensure the pie crust is fully sealed to prevent filling leakage during baking.
• Allow adequate cooling time to let the filling set properly before cutting.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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