Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the warm aroma of baked goods wafts through my kitchen, I’m taken back to family gatherings filled with laughter and the sweet joy of homemade desserts. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Classic Cannoli Squares, a delightful twist on the beloved Italian treat. These squares boast a luscious ricotta filling wrapped in a golden, crispy crust—making them incredibly simple to whip up while guaranteeing they’ll be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Not only are they make-ahead friendly, but these treats also cater to your busy schedule without sacrificing the comfort of homemade goodness. So, what flavors will you explore when making your own batch of Cannoli Squares? Why Are Cannoli Squares So Irresistible? Simplicity at Its Best: The recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for both seasoned chefs and beginners. Creamy Indulgence: With a rich ricotta filling, each bite is an explosion of flavor that balances sweetness and creamy texture. Versatile Options: Feel free to add your twist—try incorporating fruits or nuts for a delightful layer of surprise! Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ahead of time for stress-free entertaining; simply bake before serving. Crowd-Pleaser: These squares will disappear quickly at any gathering, leaving everyone begging for the recipe! Classic Cannoli Squares Ingredients For the Filling • Ricotta Cheese – This is the main filling ingredient providing creaminess; use whole milk for a richer texture. • Powdered Sugar – Adds just the right sweetness; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a healthier option. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor beautifully; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste. • Cinnamon – Adds warmth and character; omit if you prefer a classic cannoli flavor. • Mini Chocolate Chips – Provides delightful bursts of chocolate; dark chocolate is recommended to enhance richness. For the Crust • Pre-made Pie Crusts – Forms the base and top crust; homemade crust can also be used for an extra touch. • Egg – Brush on top for a glossy finish that looks professional. • Sugar – Sprinkle on top before baking for added sweetness and crunch. Enjoy crafting these delicious Classic Cannoli Squares, and make sure to savor the warmth of homemade desserts in each bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Cannoli Squares Step 1: Prepare the Filling In a mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of creamy ricotta cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ cup of mini chocolate chips. Whisk the mixture until smooth and well-blended, ensuring the filling is light and airy. Set the bowl aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the crust. Step 2: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking. This step is crucial for achieving that beautifully golden top crust of your Classic Cannoli Squares. While the oven heats, gather your baking essentials, including a 9×9-inch baking dish and the pre-made pie crusts. Step 3: Prepare the Bottom Crust Take one pie crust and roll it out on a lightly floured surface if needed. Fit the rolled crust into the greased 9×9-inch baking dish, carefully pressing it into the corners and up the sides to create a sturdy base. This crust will cradle the rich ricotta filling, so ensure it’s smooth and even. Step 4: Add the Filling Spoon the creamy ricotta filling you prepared earlier into the crust, spreading it evenly while leaving a small gap around the edges. It’s important to ensure the filling is evenly distributed to prevent bubbling over during baking. This will make your Classic Cannoli Squares even more delightful. Step 5: Top with the Second Crust Place the second pie crust over the filling, sealing the edges tightly by crimping them with your fingers or a fork for visual appeal. This will lock in the delicious filling. Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a glossy finish, and sprinkle sugar generously to create a sweet crunch. Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection Bake the assembled Classic Cannoli Squares in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes; the top should turn a lovely golden brown, while the filling may start to bubble slightly around the edges. This indicates they are ready. Step 7: Cool and Slice Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and set it aside to cool for at least 30 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice the squares without spilling. Once cooled, cut into generous squares and prepare to serve. Classic Cannoli Squares Variations Feel free to mix up these Classic Cannoli Squares to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta with silken tofu blended until smooth; consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for flavor. This twist allows everyone to enjoy the creamy filling, even those avoiding dairy. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts to keep a delightful texture while accommodating gluten sensitivities. You won’t miss the original crust at all! Flavor Boost: Add lemon zest for a hint of citrus brightness or mix in chopped nuts like pistachios for added crunch. These little changes can elevate the flavor profile and make them even more delicious. Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans for a memorable coffee-chocolate experience. It adds a delightful twist perfect for anyone craving a caffeine boost. Layered Delight: Add fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, between the filling and top crust for a refreshing twist. Not only does this add color, but it also enhances the sweet flavor profile. Nut Alternative: Swap mini chocolate chips for butterscotch chips or flavored chips like almond to introduce new flavors. These subtle changes can make a delightful difference in your Cannoli Squares. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the filling for a warm, spicy kick. Sweet and spicy might just become your new favorite combination! Softer Texture: For a soft, crumbly texture, consider using a shortbread cookie crust instead of pie crusts. This version is especially delightful for shortbread lovers and provides a unique feel. With these variations, you can enjoy a personalized dessert experience that will surely please every palate at your table! Expert Tips for Classic Cannoli Squares • Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ricotta cheese for a creamy filling; draining excess moisture will prevent a soggy texture. • Baking Watch: Monitor the baking closely during the last minutes to avoid over-browning—each oven varies! • Cooling Time: Allow squares to cool for 30 minutes before slicing to maintain the integrity of the filling. • Perfect Crusts: If using homemade crusts, ensure they’re chilled before use for a flakier texture in your Classic Cannoli Squares. • Equal Filling: Spread the filling evenly to prevent bubbling over during baking, ensuring an attractive presentation. Storage Tips for Classic Cannoli Squares Room Temperature: Let the squares cool completely and store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 hours before serving. Fridge: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve their creamy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to refresh their crispiness. Make Ahead Options These Classic Cannoli Squares are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the filling (15 ounces of ricotta, 1 cup powdered sugar, etc.) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can assemble the entire dessert, covering it tightly and refrigerating for up to 3 days before baking. To maintain that delightful texture, avoid adding the sugar topping until just before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the oven, sprinkle the sugar on top, and bake until golden brown. You’ll have delicious squares ready with minimal effort, perfect for any gathering! What to Serve with Classic Cannoli Squares As you savor the delightful layers of creamy and crispy in each indulgent bite, consider pairing these charming treats with delightful accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience. Fresh Berries: The bright acidity of raspberries or strawberries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cannoli filling, creating a perfect balance. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of homemade whipped cream brings a touch of sweetness that enhances the creamy texture while adding a luscious element. Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of a robust espresso or smooth latte make for a wonderful pairing that complements the sweetness and richness of the squares. Chocolate Drizzle: A warm drizzle of rich chocolate over top not only enhances the dessert’s visual appeal but also adds a delightful cocoa flavor that chocolate lovers will adore. Gelato: Creamy, decadent gelato in flavors like vanilla or coffee pairs beautifully, offering a contrast in temperature and an extra layer of indulgence. Pistachios: Chopped toasted pistachios sprinkle on top provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that elevates the classic cannoli experience to new heights. Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest adds a citrusy brightness that cuts through the sweetness, awakening the palate with each bite. Mint Leaves: Garnishing with fresh mint not only adds a pop of green but also infuses a refreshing herbaceous note that complements the dessert splendidly. Fruit Compote: A warm or chilled fruit compote, like fig or berry, adds sweetness and dimension, making each mouthful an exploration of flavors. Sweet Dessert Wine: Pairing with a glass of sweet dessert wine harmonizes beautifully, enhancing the flavors of both the wine and the cannoli squares. Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe FAQs What type of ricotta cheese should I use? Absolutely! Using high-quality whole milk ricotta will give your filling a rich, creamy texture. If you find it too wet, don’t hesitate to drain excess moisture using a cheesecloth or fine sieve—it makes all the difference! How should I store my Cannoli Squares? For short-term storage, place any leftover squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have more on hand, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer! Can I freeze Classic Cannoli Squares? Very! To freeze them, after they’ve cooled completely, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap. Then, put them in an airtight, freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). What if my filling spills while baking? Oh no! This can happen if the filling is too full or if it bubbles over. To prevent this, make sure to leave space around the edges of the crust before adding your filling. Also, you can place a baking sheet underneath your dish to catch any drips while baking. What if someone is allergic to dairy? No worries! You can easily make these Cannoli Squares dairy-free by substituting ricotta with silken tofu blended until smooth. Adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast can help add flavor, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat! Can I add extra flavors or toppings? The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative—add lemon zest for a hint of brightness, or mix in chopped nuts for extra texture. Topping the squares with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving can also elevate this classic dessert. Classic Cannoli Squares That Everyone Will Love No ratings yet Classic Cannoli Squares are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian treat, featuring a creamy ricotta filling and a crispy crust. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 12 squaresCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling15 ounces ricotta cheese use whole milk for richer texture1 cup powdered sugar can substitute with coconut sugar1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract opt for pure vanilla for best flavor0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon omit if preferring classic flavor0.5 cup mini chocolate chips dark chocolate recommendedFor the Crust2 pre-made pie crusts homemade can be used for an extra touch1 large egg for brushing on top1 tablespoon sugar for sprinkling on top before baking Equipment 9x9-inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Whisk until smooth and set aside.Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your baking essentials.Prepare the Bottom Crust: Fit one pie crust into the greased baking dish, pressing it into the corners and up the sides.Add the Filling: Spoon the ricotta filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.Top with the Second Crust: Place the second pie crust over the filling, sealing edges tightly and brushing with egg.Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden brown.Cool and Slice: Cool for at least 30 minutes, then cut into squares. Nutrition Serving: 1squareCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure to monitor the baking closely in the last few minutes to avoid over-browning. Let squares cool for 30 minutes before slicing for the best results. 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