Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe
Introduction
Classic Cannoli Squares offer a delightful twist on traditional cannoli, combining a creamy ricotta filling with a crisp, golden crust. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for gatherings or a special treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk or low-fat)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (preferably dark chocolate)
- 1 package (14 ounces) pre-made pie crusts (or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)
- Optional garnishes: chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, extra chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Mix until smooth and creamy. (Tip: Drain excess moisture from the ricotta using a fine-mesh sieve for a thicker filling.)
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking and a golden crust.
- Step 3: Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9×9-inch baking dish. If using pre-made crusts, unroll and press into the dish, making sure there are no cracks.
- Step 4: Spread the ricotta filling evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent overflow.
- Step 5: Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Seal edges by crimping with a fork, brush the top with beaten egg, and sprinkle with sugar.
- Step 6: Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust turns golden brown. Watch closely to avoid over-baking.
- Step 7: Let the squares cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting. Serve with optional garnishes like chopped pistachios or maraschino cherries.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter filling, use part-skim or fat-free ricotta without losing flavor.
- Substitute powdered sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for fewer calories.
- Try a whole wheat pie crust for added fiber and nutrients.
- Add a sprinkle of orange zest to the filling for a fresh citrus twist.
Storage
Store leftover cannoli squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to refresh the crust before serving. The filling can be refrigerated separately for up to 2 days if preferred.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Drain excess moisture before spreading on the crust.
What can I use instead of pie crust?
If you prefer, you can use puff pastry or graham cracker crust as alternatives. Puff pastry will give a flakier texture, while graham cracker crust adds a sweet, crunchy base.
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Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Cannoli Squares are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian cannoli, featuring a creamy ricotta filling infused with cinnamon and vanilla, and studded with mini chocolate chips, all baked within a flaky pie crust. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for sharing, offering a harmonious blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Cannoli Filling:
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese (use low-fat as a lighter option)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (preferably dark chocolate)
For the Cannoli Crust:
- 1 package (14 ounces) pre-made pie crusts (or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped pistachios
- Maraschino cherries
- Extra chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Mix until smooth and creamy. For thicker filling, drain excess moisture from the ricotta using a fine-mesh sieve before combining.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking and achieve a golden-brown crust.
- Roll Out the Pie Crust: If using homemade crust, roll it out to fit a 9×9-inch baking dish. With pre-made crusts, unroll carefully and press into the baking dish, making sure there are no cracks.
- Add the Filling: Spread the prepared ricotta mixture evenly over the bottom crust, smoothing with a spatula. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent overflow during baking.
- Prepare the Top Crust: Roll out the second pie crust and place it gently over the filling. Seal edges by crimping with a fork. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar to enhance sweetness and create a shiny finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown. Monitor closely to avoid over-browning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve with optional garnishes like chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, or extra chocolate chips.
Notes
- Drain ricotta thoroughly for a thicker and less watery filling.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor contrast.
- Leaving a border around the filling helps prevent spillage during baking.
- Chilling the completed squares before serving enhances texture and flavor.
- For a healthier twist, swap powdered sugar with natural sweeteners and use whole wheat pie crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Cannoli Squares, ricotta dessert, Italian dessert, baked dessert, easy cannoli recipe, chocolate chip dessert, pie crust dessert, ricotta filling
