Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic Italian dessert, this Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe offers all the rich, creamy flavors of traditional cannoli in an easy-to-make, shareable format. Imagine luscious ricotta sweetened to perfection, speckled with mini chocolate chips, sandwiched between buttery, golden pie crusts that bake to flaky perfection—every bite is just bursting with texture and sweetness. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family gathering or a festive occasion, these squares bring a cozy, homemade charm that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is simpler than you might think, and each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet in this dessert. Every element, from the ricotta to the pie crust, adds texture and flavor that makes this dish uniquely special.

• Whole-milk ricotta cheese: Use fresh, well-drained ricotta for a smooth, creamy base that holds the filling together.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the ricotta without graininess, giving that silky texture classic to cannoli filling.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth—a little goes a long way in elevating the flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: Provides a subtle spice that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Mini chocolate chips: Little bursts of chocolate throughout the filling add a joyful surprise.
• Pre-made pie crusts: Two crusts form the crisp, buttery layers that hold everything together with a golden finish.
• Large egg: For an egg wash that seals and gloriously browns the top crust.
• Sugar: Sprinkled on top for a sweet, crunchy crust finish.
• Optional garnishes: Chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, and extra chocolate chips add color and extra flavor pops.

How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it reaches the perfect temperature by the time your squares are ready to bake. This step ensures even cooking and a beautifully browned crust.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk the ricotta cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until everything is smooth and evenly combined. This filling is the heart of your recipe, marrying creamy sweetness with bursts of chocolate.

Step 3: Form the Base Crust

Press one pie crust firmly into a 9×9-inch baking dish. Make sure it fits snugly into every corner to provide a sturdy base that will hold the delicate filling beautifully without sogginess.

Step 4: Spread the Filling Evenly

Carefully spoon your ricotta mixture onto the crust, spreading it evenly while leaving a small border around the edges. This makes sealing the top crust both easier and tidier.

Step 5: Seal with the Top Crust

Place your second pie crust gently over the ricotta filling. Use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges, sealing the filling inside and creating that appealing decorative rim.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash and Sugar

Beat the egg well and brush it over the top crust to encourage a rich, golden color as it bakes. Then sprinkle sugar on top for an eye-catching sparkle and a delightful crunch.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your assembled squares for 30 to 35 minutes. Watch for a golden-brown crust with gentle bubbling from the filling—that’s your cue that it’s perfectly cooked and ready to cool.

Step 8: Cool and Set

Allow your cannoli squares to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This rest time helps the filling firm up so that every square holds its shape beautifully.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Cut into 9 equal squares. Serve warm or chilled, and get ready for compliments on this fantastic, crowd-pleasing dessert.

How to Serve Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for a delightful crunch and a splash of green that brightens the presentation. Adding maraschino cherries or extra chocolate chips creates a colorful, festive look that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

These squares shine as a standalone treat but also pair beautifully with a hot espresso or a robust cup of black coffee to balance their sweetness. A scoop of vanilla gelato alongside can turn it into an indulgent Italian-inspired dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try serving your Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a decorative platter topped with fresh berries and mint leaves. You could even dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish that feels special without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious treat even after the initial serving.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these ahead of time, you can freeze the slices individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Frozen cannoli squares keep well for up to 1 month and thaw nicely in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

For best texture, warm refrigerated or thawed squares in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes. This brings back the flaky crust and slightly softens the filling for an almost freshly baked experience.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat ricotta for this recipe?

While low-fat ricotta can work, whole-milk ricotta is best to achieve that rich, creamy texture that is signature to cannoli filling. Using low-fat might result in a slightly drier and less indulgent filling.

Do I have to make the pie crust from scratch?

Nope! Pre-made pie crusts are perfect here, saving you time without sacrificing taste or texture. Just make sure to thaw them properly to avoid tears when pressing into the dish.

Can these squares be made dairy-free?

Substituting dairy ingredients in this recipe can be tricky since ricotta is the star, but you could try a plant-based ricotta alternative. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ from the traditional classic.

Is it better to serve these cannoli squares warm or cold?

Both options are delicious! Warm squares have a meltingly soft filling and flaky crust, while chilled ones are firmer and refreshing. Pick whatever suits your mood or occasion.

Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped candied fruit, toasted nuts, or small pieces of dried fig can be wonderful additions. Just be mindful not to overstuff so the filling maintains the right texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about the Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe—familiar yet fresh, simple yet sophisticated. It’s a dessert that brings a little piece of Italy right into your kitchen, and once you try it, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to for celebrations or an everyday indulgence. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and make this crowd-pleaser your own. You’ll be delighted at just how easy and rewarding it is!

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