Description
Classic Cannoli Squares combine creamy ricotta filling with a flaky pie crust to create an easy-to-make, satisfying dessert. The rich blend of ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate chips is enveloped between two golden-baked pie crusts, resulting in a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Garnished with optional pistachios and maraschino cherries, this recipe brings the essence of traditional Italian cannoli into a convenient square form, perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Cannoli Filling
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar (or coconut sugar as a healthier alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (preferably dark chocolate)
Cannoli Crust
- 1 package (14 ounces) pre-made pie crusts (or homemade pie crusts)
- 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 ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy. For a thicker filling, drain excess moisture from the ricotta using a fine-mesh sieve before mixing.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the crust bakes evenly to a golden brown.
- Roll Out the Pie Crust: If using homemade crust, roll it out to fit a 9×9-inch baking dish. If using pre-made crusts, gently unroll and press one crust into the bottom of the baking dish, making sure there are no cracks or tears.
- Add the Filling: Spread the ricotta filling evenly over the crust with a spatula, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent overflow during baking.
- Prepare the Top Crust: Roll out a second pie crust and lay it over the filling. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork. Brush the surface with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for a shiny, sweet finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown. Monitor closely to avoid over-baking.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked squares from the oven and allow them to cool for at least 30 minutes. Once cooled, cut into squares and garnish with chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, or extra chocolate chips as desired.
Notes
- For a firmer filling, drain ricotta overnight in a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture.
- Using dark chocolate chips enhances the richness and balances sweetness.
- Whole wheat pie crusts can be used for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- Adjust sweetness by reducing powdered sugar or substituting with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.
- Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Allow the squares to cool completely before cutting to maintain clean edges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: cannoli squares, ricotta dessert, Italian dessert, baked cannoli, easy cannoli recipe, ricotta cheese dessert
