Irresistible Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe to Try Now

When you take a bite of Classic Cannoli Squares, you’re greeted by a symphony of flavors: creamy ricotta mingling with sweet chocolate chips and a hint of cinnamon, all nestled in a buttery crust. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around like bees to honey, eagerly anticipating that first delightful taste.

This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and these squares were the star of the dessert table. Perfect for parties or just a cozy night in, Classic Cannoli Squares promise an indulgent experience that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). For more inspiration, check out this explore more dessert recipes recipe.

I once made these Cannoli Squares for a family reunion, and let’s just say my Aunt Maria didn’t stop raving about them until she had polished off half the tray!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture in your crust.

• Unsalted Butter: I recommend using cold butter to achieve a flaky crust.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the crust and filling perfectly.

• Ricotta Cheese: Aim for whole-milk ricotta for creaminess and flavor.

• Chocolate Chips: Mini chocolate chips work best for even distribution throughout the filling.

• Cinnamon: A touch of cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

• Powdered Sugar: Dust on top before serving for an elegant finish.

• Eggs: Eggs help bind the filling together while adding richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares

Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add an egg yolk and mix until dough forms.

Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial; it helps solidify the butter, ensuring a flakier crust.

Blind Bake the Crust: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface. Place it into a greased baking dish and blind bake it in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Create the Filling: In another bowl, mix ricotta cheese, sugar, chocolate chips, eggs, and cinnamon until smooth. Taste it—this is your chance to adjust sweetness or add more cinnamon if desired!

Add Filling to Crust: Pour the filling over your baked crust evenly. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly. Bake again at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until set.

Cool and Serve: Let your Cannoli Squares cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar on top. Cut into squares and enjoy this heavenly treat either warm or chilled!

Now that you’ve mastered this delightful dessert, get ready to impress friends and family with your new baking prowess!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the crust while your filling chills. Bake until golden, then fill the squares just before serving for optimal texture and taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ricotta with mascarpone for a richer filling. You can also add chocolate chips or pistachios for extra crunch and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, reheat briefly in the oven before serving.

Classic Cannoli Squares hold a special place in my heart. I remember making them for my niece’s birthday, watching her eyes light up when she took her first bite.

FAQ

What is the best way to make the filling?

Use high-quality ricotta and mix in powdered sugar until smooth for a delicious filling.

Can I make Classic Cannoli Squares ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the crust early but fill it right before serving to keep it crisp.

What variations can I try with the recipe?

Experiment with different flavors like orange zest or almond extract to customize your squares.

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Classic Cannoli Squares

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• Author: Clara Rosewood
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x

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Description

Classic Cannoli Squares are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dessert, featuring a creamy ricotta filling studded with chocolate chips and warm cinnamon, all enveloped in a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, these squares bring nostalgia and joy to family gatherings or cozy nights. With an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, they promise to be a crowd-pleaser, leaving everyone eager for more.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
• 2 large eggs

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and cold butter until crumbly. Add an egg yolk to form dough.
2. Chill the dough wrapped in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes.
3. Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a greased baking dish. Blind bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
4. For the filling, combine ricotta, sugar, chocolate chips, eggs, and cinnamon until smooth. Adjust sweetness if needed.
5. Pour the filling over the baked crust and bake for another 25-30 minutes until set.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 55mg