Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummaged through my pantry one evening, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, igniting memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and the sweet scent of Italian pastries. That’s when I decided to whip up a simple yet delightful dessert: Classic Cannoli Squares. This easy twist on the traditional cannoli combines a creamy ricotta filling with a golden crispy crust, making it a breeze to prepare for any occasion. Not only does this recipe save time, but it also serves as a crowd-pleaser that transports everyone to the charming streets of Italy. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a cozy Friday night at home, these squares promise to end your meal on a high note. Curious about how to recreate these mouthwatering squares in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why are Classic Cannoli Squares a must-try? Simplicity: Minimal effort is needed to create these delicious squares, making them perfect for both beginners and busy chefs alike. Crowd-Pleasing: Their rich flavor and nostalgic essence make them an instant favorite at any gathering. Versatile Options: Feel free to swap Ricotta with mascarpone or cottage cheese for a different twist, or add lemon zest for a refreshing kick! Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them a day in advance for stress-free entertaining; just cool and refrigerate! Indulgent Flavor: Each bite boasts a perfect balance of creamy filling and crispy crust, transporting you straight to Italy with each taste. Explore more delightful dessert ideas in our Italian dessert guide and discover how to perfect your baking techniques! Classic Cannoli Squares Ingredients • For the Filling Ricotta Cheese – The creamy base; use whole milk for a richer texture. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste. Cinnamon – Introduces warmth; omit if you prefer a classic cannoli flavor. Mini Chocolate Chips – Provides a delightful chocolate note; dark chocolate enhances richness. • For the Crust Pre-made Pie Crusts – The convenient base; homemade crust works beautifully, too. Egg – For an egg wash that gives a glossy finish. Sugar (for sprinkling) – Adds a sweet crunch on top when baked. • For Optional Garnishes Chopped Pistachios – Offers a delightful crunch and color. Maraschino Cherries – Adds a pop of sweetness and decoration. Extra Chocolate Chips – For those who can’t get enough chocolate! With these ingredients, you’re all set to create your tantalizing Classic Cannoli Squares! Enjoy a taste of Italy with every delicious bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Cannoli Squares Step 1: Prepare the Filling In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ cup of mini chocolate chips. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring that all ingredients are well incorporated. Set aside your delectable filling while you preheat the oven. Step 2: Preheat the Oven Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving a golden-brown crust while allowing the filling to warm gently. Ensure your oven is fully heated before placing the Classic Cannoli Squares inside for the best baking results. Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crust Unroll one pre-made pie crust and fit it snugly into a 9×9-inch baking dish, pressing it into the corners and ensuring it covers the bottom evenly. This crust will serve as the foundation for your Classic Cannoli Squares, so take a moment to ensure it’s properly positioned before moving on to the filling. Step 4: Add the Filling Spoon the creamy ricotta mixture over the rolled-out pie crust, spreading it evenly while leaving a small edge around the sides for sealing. Make sure the filling is distributed uniformly for those luscious bites of flavor in every square. This layer of filling is where the magic happens, showcasing the authentic taste of classic cannoli. Step 5: Prepare the Top Crust Take the second pie crust and carefully place it over the ricotta filling. Press the edges down firmly to seal, crimping them with your fingers or a fork for an attractive finish. Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a beautiful golden sheen, then sprinkle sugar generously over it to enhance the texture and sweetness. Step 6: Bake Place the assembled Classic Cannoli Squares in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible! Step 7: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares. This resting period will help set the filling, making it easier to slice without spilling. Serve your Classic Cannoli Squares warm or chilled, and consider adding optional garnishes like chopped pistachios for extra flair. Classic Cannoli Squares Variations Feel free to make these Classic Cannoli Squares your own by trying out these delicious twists and substitutions! Dairy-Free: Use silken tofu blended until smooth as a ricotta substitute for a creamy, plant-based filling. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor that’s delightful! Gluten-Free: Swap the pre-made pie crusts with a gluten-free pastry option. There are fantastic pre-made alternatives available that will keep your squares just as delicious! Extra Zesty: Grate in some lemon zest for a bright, refreshing pop of citrus that complements the creamy filling beautifully. It adds a lightness that is simply irresistible. Flavor Boost: Mix in a teaspoon of almond extract with the vanilla for a rich and nutty flavor enhancement. This small addition can make a big impact that will have everyone asking for your secret! Nutty Crunch: Stir in some finely chopped nuts, like pistachios or walnuts, into the filling for an enticing crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture. This will also give your squares a delightful twist. Spicy Sweet: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper or add a hint of chili powder to the filling for a surprising, yet tantalizing heat that plays wonderfully with the sweet elements! Chocolate Lovers: Use a mix of mini chocolate chips and crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans for a coffee-chocolate kick. This combination will awaken your taste buds and create a decadent experience. Layered Delight: Consider layering fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries between the filling and the top crust for a burst of juicy flavor. It adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cannoli filling. As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out our Italian dessert guide for even more delightful dessert ideas that will enhance your culinary repertoire! Make Ahead Options These Classic Cannoli Squares are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time while still impressing friends and family! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; just mix your ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips, then refrigerate in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can line your baking dish with the bottom pie crust and leave it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake. When you’re set to serve, spread the filling, top with the second crust, and bake as directed. This method ensures your dessert will taste just as delicious, even made ahead of time! Storage Tips for Classic Cannoli Squares Room Temperature: Store leftover squares at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but be cautious; they can lose their texture if left out too long. Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate Classic Cannoli Squares in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Freezer: Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring the crust stays crispy. Expert Tips for Classic Cannoli Squares Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality ricotta cheese and pure vanilla extract; it makes a noticeable difference in your Classic Cannoli Squares. Drain Ricotta: To achieve a thicker filling, drain excess moisture from the ricotta using a fine-mesh sieve before mixing with other ingredients. Keep an Eye on Baking: Monitor your squares closely during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning; ovens can vary in temperature. Let Them Cool: Allow the squares to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing; this step ensures they hold their shape and prevent filling spillage. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your filling by adding lemon zest or using different types of chocolate chips—this can elevate your Classic Cannoli Squares to new heights! What to Serve with Classic Cannoli Squares Imagine ending your meal with a delightful flourish that complements the creamy, rich flavors of your cannoli squares. Rich Gelato: A scoop of velvety gelato enhances the dish’s indulgence, offering a luxurious balance to the creamy filling. Vanilla or chocolate flavors are classic choices that never disappoint. Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness and adding a burst of vibrant color. Espresso: A cup of strong, aromatic espresso pairs beautifully with the dessert, enhancing the flavors and adding a comforting warmth that transports you to a cozy Italian café. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a lightness to the plate while adding a touch of elegance, making each bite feel indulgent yet airy. Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling crushed pistachios or almonds over the top adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, elevating the overall texture and aesthetic appeal of your serving. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce provides an extra layer of sweetness and decadence, creating a delightful interplay with the cannoli squares’ rich filling. Mint Leaves: Placing a sprig of fresh mint on the plate not only adds color but also offers a fresh, aromatic finish that brightens the entire dessert experience. Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey can add a hint of floral sweetness, enhancing the indulgent flavors while creating an eye-catching presentation. Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ricotta cheese for my Classic Cannoli Squares? Absolutely! For the creamiest filling, I recommend using whole milk ricotta as it provides a richer texture. Make sure to check for freshness by looking for a clean, mild smell and avoiding any containers with dark spots or excessive moisture. What’s the best way to store Classic Cannoli Squares? You can keep your squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re fully cooled before covering to maintain their texture. If left at room temperature, they should be enjoyed within 2 hours to prevent sogginess. Can I freeze Classic Cannoli Squares? Very! To freeze, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. For enjoying, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and they’ll be ready to serve, maintaining their delightful flavor. What should I do if my filling seems too runny? If your filling is too runny, try draining the ricotta before mixing by placing it in a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl for about 30 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture. If you’re in a hurry, adding a little more powdered sugar can also help thicken it, but draining is definitely the best method for a luscious result. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! For those with lactose intolerance, you can use lactose-free ricotta cheese without sacrificing the delicious flavor. If you have nut allergies, be cautious with garnishes like pistachios and consider omitting them or substituting with seeds for crunch. Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Classic Cannoli Squares are an easy twist on the traditional dessert, boasting a creamy ricotta filling and a golden crispy crust. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 9 squaresCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianCalories: 280 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling2 cups Ricotta Cheese use whole milk for a richer texture1 cup Powdered Sugar substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract opt for pure vanilla for the best taste1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon omit if you prefer a classic cannoli flavor1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips dark chocolate enhances richnessFor the Crust2 pre-made pie crusts Pre-made Pie Crusts homemade crust works beautifully, too1 large Egg for an egg wash that gives a glossy finishsugar Sugar (for sprinkling) adds a sweet crunch on top when bakedFor Optional Garnishes1/4 cup Chopped Pistachios offers a delightful crunch and color3 pieces Maraschino Cherries adds a pop of sweetness and decoration1/4 cup Extra Chocolate Chips for those who can't get enough chocolate Equipment mixing bowlbaking dishWhiskoven Method Preparation StepsIn a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ cup of mini chocolate chips. Whisk until smooth.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Unroll one pre-made pie crust and fit it into a 9x9-inch baking dish.Spoon the ricotta mixture over the pie crust evenly.Place the second pie crust over the filling, sealing the edges. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares. Nutrition Serving: 1squareCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 8IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 4mg NotesFor best results, use quality ingredients and monitor baking closely to prevent over-browning. Feel free to customize your filling with different flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
