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Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe

Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe

4.8 from 30 reviews

These Classic Cannoli Squares deliver all the rich, creamy, and chocolatey flavors of traditional cannoli in an easy-to-make, shareable dessert bar. Featuring a luscious ricotta filling blended with powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips, all baked between flaky pre-made pie crusts and topped with a glossy egg wash, sugar, chopped pistachios, and maraschino cherries, these squares are a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

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

Crust & Topping

  • 2 pre-made Pie Crusts (homemade crust works beautifully as well)
  • 1 large Egg (for egg wash)
  • Sugar (for sprinkling, adds a sweet crunch)
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Pistachios (for crunch and color)
  • 3 pieces Maraschino Cherries (for garnish and sweetness)
  • 1/4 cup Extra Chocolate Chips (optional for extra chocolate topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even baking.
  3. Prepare the Base Crust: Unroll one pre-made pie crust and fit it carefully into a 9×9-inch baking dish, pressing it into the corners and up the sides to create an even base for the filling.
  4. Add the Filling: Spoon the prepared ricotta mixture evenly over the pie crust base, spreading it gently to cover the entire surface without spilling over the edges.
  5. Top with Second Crust: Place the second pre-made pie crust over the filling. Seal the edges by gently pressing the top and bottom crusts together to prevent leakage during baking.
  6. Egg Wash and Sugar Topping: Beat one large egg and brush it generously over the top crust to create a glossy finish. Sprinkle sugar evenly on top for a sweet, crunchy contrast after baking.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Cool and Garnish: Remove the cannoli squares from the oven and allow them to cool completely for at least 30 minutes to help set the filling. Once cooled, sprinkle chopped pistachios, extra chocolate chips, and garnish with maraschino cherries before slicing into squares and serving.

Notes

  • Use whole milk ricotta for a creamier, richer filling.
  • You can substitute powdered sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier sweetener option.
  • Dark chocolate mini chips add a deeper flavor; you can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate if preferred.
  • If you want a traditional cannoli flavor, omit the cinnamon.
  • Ensure the pie crust edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
  • Allow the squares to cool completely before slicing to prevent the filling from spilling out.
  • Feel free to decorate with nuts and cherries to add texture and a beautiful presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: cannoli squares, ricotta dessert, easy cannoli recipe, Italian dessert bars, chocolate chip ricotta dessert, homemade cannoli squares