Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe

Introduction

These Classic Cannoli Squares bring the beloved flavors of traditional cannoli into an easy-to-make, shareable dessert. With a creamy ricotta filling, chocolate chips, and a crisp pie crust, they are perfect for any occasion that calls for a delightful treat.

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 gently to cover the bottom and sides.
4. Step 4: Evenly spread the ricotta mixture over the prepared pie crust.
5. Step 5: Place the second pie crust on top of the filling, sealing the edges by pressing them together. Brush the top crust with beaten egg.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle sugar evenly over the egg-washed crust to add a sweet, crunchy finish.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Step 8: Allow the baked squares to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, and extra chocolate chips if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter filling, drain ricotta cheese in a fine mesh strainer overnight to remove excess moisture.
• Substitute cinnamon with a pinch of nutmeg for a slightly different warm spice note.
• Try folding in chopped candied orange peel for a zesty twist.
• Use homemade pie crust if you prefer a fresher, flaky texture.
• Decorate squares individually with a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant presentation.

Storage

Store leftover cannoli squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, allow them to come to room temperature before serving. They can be reheated briefly in a low-temperature oven (about 300°F) to refresh the crust, but avoid the microwave 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, the ricotta filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and whisk before assembling.

What can I use instead of ricotta?

You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese mixed with a little milk or mascarpone cheese for a different but still creamy consistency.

Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe

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4.5 from 386 reviews

These Classic Cannoli Squares combine creamy ricotta filling with mini chocolate chips sandwiched between flaky pie crusts. Baked to golden perfection and topped with a glossy egg wash, a sprinkle of sugar, chopped pistachios, and maraschino cherries for an irresistible dessert that captures the traditional flavors of cannoli in an easy-to-make square format.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 9–12 squares 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Filling

• 2 cups Ricotta Cheese (whole milk recommended for richer texture)
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla best)
• 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (preferably dark chocolate)

Crust and Topping

• 2 pre-made Pie Crusts (homemade crust can also be used)
• 1 large Egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Sugar (for sprinkling on top)
• 1/4 cup Chopped Pistachios (for garnish and crunch)
• 3 pieces Maraschino Cherries (for decoration)
• 1/4 cup Extra Chocolate Chips (optional, for extra chocolate)

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (if using), and 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips until smooth and well combined.
2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dessert.
3. Prepare the crust base: Unroll one of the pre-made pie crusts and fit it evenly into a 9×9-inch baking dish, making sure the crust fits snugly without air pockets.
4. Add the ricotta filling: Spoon the prepared ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the pie crust base, spreading it to the edges.
5. Seal with second crust: Lay the second pie crust over the ricotta filling, sealing the edges by pinching or pressing down. Ensure a tight edge to prevent leaks.
6. Apply egg wash and topping: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to create a glossy finish. Sprinkle sugar evenly over the top crust for a sweet, crunchy texture once baked.
7. Bake the squares: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool and garnish: Let the cannoli squares cool for at least 30 minutes for easier cutting and to let flavors meld. Once cooled, cut into squares and garnish with chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, and additional chocolate chips if desired.

Notes

• Use whole milk ricotta cheese for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
• If you prefer a healthier option, substitute powdered sugar with coconut sugar, but note it may slightly change the sweetness and texture.
• The cinnamon is optional; omit it for a classic cannoli taste.
• Chilling the ricotta mixture before assembling can improve texture but is not required.
• Ensure the edges of the pie crusts are sealed well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
• Cooling the squares completely before cutting prevents the filling from spilling out and keeps clean edges.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for the best taste and freshness.

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