Classic Cannoli Squares

Discover the rich, creamy delight of Classic Cannoli Squares, an irresistible treat perfect for any dessert lover’s cravings. These luscious squares capture the essence of the traditional Italian cannoli, transforming the beloved flavors into a convenient, delightful dessert that’s impossible to resist. Combining a crispy base, sweet ricotta filling, and a touch of chocolate, this recipe brings homemade bakery magic straight to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: The classic ricotta and chocolate combo faithfully recreates traditional cannoli taste in a unique square form.
• Convenient Serving: Easy to cut and share, making them perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick indulgence.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from pantry staples and fresh ricotta, this recipe balances ease and quality beautifully.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect on its own or as a complement to coffee, tea, or dessert wine for a sophisticated treat.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with different nuts, fruits, or chocolate types to suit any preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in the Classic Cannoli Squares plays a vital role, contributing to the balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet notes that make this dessert stand out. The simplicity of the list means you can gather everything without fuss and create a memorable treat.

• Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh, whole-milk ricotta for creamy, smooth filling with the perfect texture.
• Sugar: Powdered sugar adds sweetness and helps maintain the filling’s light, fluffy consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Added to the ricotta mixture for delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite.
• Butter: For a rich and crumbly crust base that supports the creamy topping.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the backbone of the crust, providing structure and crunch.
• Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Adds a decorative finish and light sweetness on top.
• Optional Cinnamon: A pinch for subtle warmth that complements the sweet filling beautifully.

Variations for Classic Cannoli Squares

Feel free to customize your Classic Cannoli Squares to match your taste buds or dietary needs. Whether you want to make them nutty, fruity, or vegan-friendly, adapting this recipe is easy and fun.

• Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped pistachios or almonds on top or folded into the filling for extra crunch and flavor.
• Fruit Infusion: Mix in small pieces of candied orange peel or dried cherries for a fruity surprise.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends to keep the squares accessible to everyone.
• Vegan Variation: Use plant-based ricotta alternatives and vegan butter to make a cruelty-free version.
• Spiced Filling: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the ricotta mixture to add warmth to the flavor profile.

How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Mix melted butter, powdered sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt together until crumbly. Press the dough firmly into a baking pan, creating an even base. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and set.

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating the creamy filling central to these squares.

Step 3: Assemble the Squares

Once the crust has cooled completely, spread the ricotta filling evenly over the baked base. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring every bite will have that rich creamy layer.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the squares chill for at least 3 hours or overnight. Chilling helps the filling set and makes cutting clean squares easier.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar and garnish optionally with chopped pistachios or chocolate shavings for a stunning presentation.

Pro Tips for Making Classic Cannoli Squares

• Use Fresh Ricotta: Drain ricotta in a cheesecloth for 30 minutes beforehand to avoid watery filling.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the filling just until combined to keep it fluffy and creamy, not dense.
• Chill Thoroughly: Proper refrigeration ensures the squares set perfectly and cut cleanly.
• Even Crust Layer: Press the crust firmly and evenly in the pan to avoid cracks or crumbling when sliced.
• Custom Garnishes: Toast nuts or sprinkle cinnamon on top to add extra flavor and texture.

How to Serve Classic Cannoli Squares

Garnishes

Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple touch or top with chopped pistachios, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a colorful, inviting look that enhances every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair Classic Cannoli Squares with rich espresso, a cup of fragrant tea, or a glass of sweet dessert wine to elevate the tasting experience and balance the creamy sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve on decorative trays dusted with cocoa powder or edible gold dust for festive occasions. Alternatively, place individual squares in mini cupcake liners for bite-sized serving at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent the crust from getting soggy.

Freezing

Wrap squares individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results.

Reheating

Classic Cannoli Squares are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so avoid reheating. If desired, let them sit out 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors and soften textures.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made ricotta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fresh and well-drained to prevent excess moisture from affecting the filling consistency.

Are Classic Cannoli Squares suitable for freezing?

Yes, they freeze well when wrapped properly; thaw overnight in the refrigerator to keep the filling creamy and crust intact.

Can I substitute mini chocolate chips with other types of chocolate?

Definitely. Chopped dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even fudge pieces work beautifully, depending on your preferred flavor.

How do I make Classic Cannoli Squares gluten-free?

Simply replace the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, ensuring the right texture.

Is there a vegan version of Classic Cannoli Squares?

Yes, by using vegan ricotta or blended tofu, plant-based butter, and ensuring all other ingredients are vegan, you can enjoy an animal-friendly treat.

Final Thoughts

Classic Cannoli Squares are the perfect harmony of crunchy, creamy, and sweet—a dessert that’s certain to impress and satisfy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a personal indulgence, these squares bring the joy of traditional cannoli without the fuss. Dive into this recipe and make your kitchen smell of warm vanilla and rich chocolate—your taste buds will thank you!

Related Posts

• Golden Honey & Ricotta Pie (Melopita)
• Zesty One-Bowl Lemon Cake
• Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread

Print