Amid the bustling symphony of an Italian kitchen, there’s a seductive scent wafting through the air—a melody of sweet ricotta and warm spices waiting to grace my table. This vibrant culinary experience is brought to life by my cherished Classic Cannoli Squares, a delightful twist on the beloved Italian dessert. With these squares, you’ll enjoy a creamy filling nestled between crispy layers that’s simple to prepare yet charming enough to impress friends and family alike. Not only are these Cannoli Squares a crowd-pleaser, but they also offer convenient make-ahead options, ideal for busy home chefs like us. Curious about how to bring this creamy Italian delight into your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Cannoli Squares a Must-Try?
Irresistible Delight: Each bite of these Cannoli Squares delivers a perfect blend of creamy ricotta and sweet chocolate chips, creating a dessert that’s hard to resist.
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal preparation and only basic baking skills, making it accessible for everyone from novice cooks to seasoned chefs.
Versatile Options: With gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives included, these squares cater to a variety of dietary needs, ensuring everyone can indulge!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling a day in advance or freeze for later, making this dessert perfect for hosting or spontaneous cravings.
Showstopper Presentation: These elegant squares are sure to impress at any gathering, bringing a touch of Italian tradition to your table that everyone will love.
Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist, letting you customize the flavor to your liking!
If you’re looking for more ways to elevate your dessert game, check out easy make-ahead dessert ideas.
Cannoli Squares Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ricotta Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy filling base; opt for whole milk for extra richness.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness to the filling; substitute coconut sugar for a healthier touch.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; pure vanilla offers the best taste.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; omit for a more traditional cannoli flavor.
• Mini Chocolate Chips – Contributes sweetness and texture; dark chocolate boosts richness.
For the Crust
• Pre-made Pie Crusts – Forms the foundation and top layer of the squares; homemade crust can elevate the dish.
• Large Egg – Used for egg wash, giving a glossy finish to the top crust.
• Sugar (for sprinkling) – Adds a sweet finish and delightful crunch to the baked top.
Optional Toppings
• Chopped Pistachios – Offers a crunchy texture and a pop of color; perfect for an elegant touch.
• Maraschino Cherries – Adds sweetness and serves as a charming decoration.
• Extra Chocolate Chips – For those who crave more chocolate flavor in their Cannoli Squares!
Now that you have your Cannoli Squares ingredients ready, let’s move on to crafting this delightful dish that will dazzle your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cannoli Squares
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain. This filling forms the heart of your Cannoli Squares, so take your time to achieve a velvety texture. Set the bowl aside while you get everything ready for baking.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking your Cannoli Squares to a perfect golden brown. Allow the oven to heat up for about 10 to 15 minutes while you prep the crust. A properly preheated oven will ensure even cooking throughout the dessert.
Step 3: Roll Out Crust
Take one pre-made pie crust and fit it into a 9×9-inch baking dish, pressing it gently against the bottom and sides. Ensure the crust is flat and snug, ready to cradle the creamy filling you just prepared. If you’re going for a homemade experience, roll out your dough to the same thickness for an even bake.
Step 4: Add Filling
Spoon the ricotta filling evenly over the crust, spreading it gently with a spatula. Leave about half an inch of crust around the edges to allow for proper sealing. This creamy layer is the highlight of your Cannoli Squares, so spread it evenly for a delightful taste in every bite.
Step 5: Seal with Top Crust
Carefully place the second pie crust over the filling. Crimp the edges together to seal in all that delicious flavor. Brush the top crust with a beaten egg to achieve a shiny, golden finish as it bakes. Finally, sprinkle sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Step 6: Bake
Pop the assembled Cannoli Squares into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them and look for a golden brown color on top and bubbling filling. This step is crucial for achieving that crisp crust and creamy interior that makes Cannoli Squares so irresistible.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the Cannoli Squares from the oven and let them cool for 30 minutes. This cooling period helps the filling set, making slicing easier. Once cooled, cut the squares into even portions and prepare to serve these delightful treats that capture the essence of classic Italian desserts.
How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Squares
Fridge: Store leftover Cannoli Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while retaining their delicious creamy filling and crispy crust.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap Cannoli Squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen Cannoli Squares, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. This method helps preserve their texture and flavor, making them just as delightful as when first baked.
Reheating: If desired, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat, or serve them chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Cannoli Squares are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips, then refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. Additionally, you can assemble the squares without baking and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to serve, just bake as directed, ensuring a delightful and crisp texture that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made. With these make-ahead options, you’ll save time on busy weeknights while still impressing friends and family with your culinary skills!
What to Serve with Classic Cannoli Squares?
Indulge in a full Italian-inspired dessert experience that will mesmerize your taste buds and leave your guests wanting more.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling of the Cannoli Squares.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings lightness and enhances the decadent flavors, making every bite even more luxurious.
- Espresso or Coffee: Pair these squares with a rich espresso to balance the sweetness; the robust flavor complements the dessert beautifully.
- Chopped Nuts: Toasted pistachios or almonds add a satisfying crunch that contrasts well with the smooth filling, enhancing both texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the squares elevates their visual appeal and provides a delightful, rich pairing.
- Limoncello: This zesty Italian liqueur adds a citrusy tang that brightens the palette, making it a perfect companion to your sweet treats.
- Gelato: Serve with a scoop of creamy gelato to amplify the indulgent experience; flavors like vanilla or chocolate complement beautifully.
- Miniature Fruit Tarts: Their fruity freshness adds a lovely contrast, offering an additional layer of flavor without overshadowing the Cannoli Squares.
- Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle takes the Cannoli Squares to a whole new level, lending a comforting sweetness that is simply irresistible.
Cannoli Squares Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Cannoli Squares, enhancing flavors and accommodating dietary preferences to make them truly your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute silken tofu blended until smooth for ricotta; this creates a creamy texture. Add nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy flavor twist.
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Gluten-Free: Make life easier by using gluten-free pre-made pie crusts available in stores. Enjoy the same delightful taste while catering to gluten sensitivity!
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Extra Zesty: Brighten the filling by adding lemon zest for a refreshing and vibrant flavor. This slight twist will have your taste buds dancing with joy!
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Flavor Boost: Experiment with almond extract alongside vanilla for an aromatic enhancement. This simple substitution adds an exciting layer of flavor to your Cannoli Squares.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped pistachios or walnuts into the filling for a crunchy contrast. This twist introduces delightful textures, complementing the creamy filling beautifully.
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Layered Delight: Add fresh fruit, like raspberries or strawberries, between the creamy filling and top crust for a burst of fruity flavor. This variation brightens the dish and adds natural sweetness.
If you’re curious about other delightful desserts that can easily be adapted for various tastes, check out easy make-ahead dessert ideas. Embracing your creativity in the kitchen makes each dish a personal masterpiece!
Expert Tips for Cannoli Squares
- Quality Matters: Use high-quality ricotta cheese for a smooth, rich filling. Draining excess moisture will improve texture and prevent sogginess.
- Baking Watchfulness: Keep an eye on the Cannoli Squares during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning and to ensure a perfect golden finish.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the squares to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting. This helps the filling set and results in cleaner slices for serving.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add lemon zest or almond extract to the filling for a unique twist that enhances the classic Cannoli Squares flavor.
- Sealing Tips: Make sure to crimp the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
- Storage Solutions: If you’re making these ahead, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; they taste delightful even after a short time!
Cannoli Squares Recipe FAQs
What kind of ricotta cheese should I use for Cannoli Squares?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for whole milk ricotta cheese. If your ricotta seems watery, consider draining it in a fine mesh strainer for about 15-30 minutes before mixing. This will ensure a richer filling without excess moisture.
How do I store leftover Cannoli Squares?
Very simply! Store any leftover Cannoli Squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain both the creaminess of the filling and the crispiness of the crust, allowing you to enjoy the dessert just as much on the following days!
Can I freeze Cannoli Squares?
Absolutely! To freeze Cannoli Squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best results!
What should I do if my Cannoli Squares overflow while baking?
If you find that your filling bubbles out during baking, this typically means that the filling was too full or the edges weren’t sealed properly. To prevent this, leave at least half an inch of crust around the edges and make sure to crimp them well to lock in the delectable filling.
Can I make Cannoli Squares ahead of time?
Very much so! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the squares and pop them in the oven. You can also freeze them after baking for future indulgence—just follow the freezing instructions mentioned above.
Savory Cannoli Squares: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fit one pre-made pie crust into a 9x9-inch baking dish, pressing it against the bottom and sides.
- Spoon the ricotta filling evenly over the crust, leaving half an inch of crust around the edges.
- Place the second pie crust over the filling and crimp the edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and filling is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 30 minutes. Cut into squares to serve.
