Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of cinnamon filled the air, whisking me back to cherished family gatherings where dessert was always the star. Today, I’m excited to share my easy recipe for Classic Cannoli Squares, a delightful twist on the beloved Italian treat. With their creamy filling and flaky crust, these squares combine the rich flavors of traditional cannoli with the simplicity that busy home cooks crave. Not only are they a quick preparation that yields impressive results, but they’re also perfect for impressing friends and family at gatherings or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a slice of Italian comfort? Ready to dive into this scrumptious recipe? Let’s create something magical together! Why Are Cannoli Squares So Irresistible? Creamy, Decadent Filling: A rich blend of ricotta and chocolate chips creates an indulgent flavor that’s pure bliss in every bite. Easy Preparation: These Classic Cannoli Squares are a breeze to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact — perfect for busy bakers! Versatile Options: Experiment with flavors like lemon zest or mascarpone for a unique twist that personalizes the recipe to your taste. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for gatherings or family dinners, these squares are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Perfect Texture: The flaky crust pairs beautifully with the smooth filling, offering a delightful contrast you won’t forget. For more scrumptious baking inspiration, don’t miss out on my Lemon Cream Cheese recipe that shares a similar creamy goodness! Classic Cannoli Squares Ingredients • Delicious ingredients await to create your creamy masterpiece! For the Creamy Filling: Ricotta Cheese – Rich and creamy, this ingredient is the heart of your filling; consider substituting with mascarpone for a luxurious twist. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling to perfection; you can opt for coconut sugar for a healthier version! Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm, aromatic depth; this ingredient is irreplaceable for authenticity. Cinnamon – Introduces a comforting warmth; if you prefer a simpler taste, feel free to omit. Mini Chocolate Chips – These delightful morsels bring sweetness and texture; dark chocolate chips work beautifully as a swap for a richer flavor. For the Crust: Pre-made Pie Crust (1 package) – A quick and easy base for your dessert; for a more personalized touch, homemade crust will elevate the flavor! Egg (beaten) – This helps achieve that golden, glossy crust; you can skip it if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative! Sugar (1 tablespoon) – A sprinkle on top enhances sweetness and appearance; no substitutions needed for that golden finish. Optional Garnishes: Chopped Pistachios – For a nutty crunch and vibrant color! Maraschino Cherries – Add a pop of color and sweetness for a festive touch. Extra Chocolate Chips – Because you can never have too much chocolate! Now you’re ready to whip up a batch of delightful Classic Cannoli Squares that will transport you straight to Italy with every luscious bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Cannoli Squares Step 1: Prepare the Filling In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy, taking about 3-5 minutes. This luscious filling will be the highlight of your Classic Cannoli Squares, so ensure it’s well combined. Step 2: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking. This temperature ensures that the crust will bake evenly, turning beautifully golden brown. Setting the oven ahead of time allows the heat to stabilize, giving you the perfect environment to achieve that flaky texture in your cannoli squares. Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crust Open your pre-made pie crust and carefully press it into a 9×9-inch baking dish, ensuring there are no cracks or gaps. If you’re using homemade crust, roll it out into an even layer before transferring. This crust will serve as the base of your Classic Cannoli Squares, providing the essential crispy layer for your creamy filling. Step 4: Add the Filling Spread the prepared ricotta mixture evenly over the crust, using a spatula to ensure an even layer. This step is crucial, as it allows the decadent filling to be well-distributed throughout your Classic Cannoli Squares. Aim for a nice, thick layer that fills the crust without spilling over the edges. Step 5: Prepare the Top Crust Roll out a second pie crust, gently placing it over the filled dish. Seal the edges by pressing down with a fork to create a decorative pattern. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a glossy finish and sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar on top to enhance the sweetness and ensure a beautiful golden crust when baked. Step 6: Bake Carefully place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on the squares as they bake, ensuring that the crust turns a lovely golden brown. The aroma of cinnamon and sweetness will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist until they’re cool enough to slice. Step 7: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Classic Cannoli Squares to cool for about 30 minutes. This cooling time is essential for setting the filling, making it easier to cut into squares. Once cooled, slice into pieces and serve, garnished with optional chopped pistachios or maraschino cherries for an added touch of elegance. Expert Tips for Classic Cannoli Squares Drain the Ricotta: Ensure your ricotta cheese is drained thoroughly to avoid a watery filling. Use a fine-mesh sieve for best results. Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on the baking process, especially during the last few minutes, to prevent the crust from over-browning. Cool Completely: Allow your Classic Cannoli Squares to cool for the full 30 minutes after baking; this helps set the filling and prevents it from spilling when cut. Crust Perfection: If using pre-made pie crusts, make sure they don’t have cracks. A well-sealed crust holds the filling beautifully! Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add a splash of lemon zest or almond extract to the filling for a delightful flavor twist that everyone will love. Make Ahead Options These Classic Cannoli Squares are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply make the creamy ricotta mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the crust can also be prepped ahead; just roll it out and place it in the baking dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap, refrigerating for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, spread the filling over the crust, top it with the second crust, and bake as directed. This way, you save time while still enjoying an indulgent dessert just as delicious as if made fresh! How to Store and Freeze Classic Cannoli Squares Fridge: Keep your Classic Cannoli Squares in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious creamy filling and flaky crust. Freezer: If you want to make them ahead of time, wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: To enjoy frozen squares, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh the crust. Serving Tip: Serve chilled or at room temperature; adding a garnish of chopped pistachios or maraschino cherries will elevate their presentation! Classic Cannoli Squares Variations Feel free to get creative with these variations to make this recipe truly your own! Mascarpone Swap: Use mascarpone instead of ricotta for a richer, creamier filling that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s like taking a classic and elevating it to a gourmet experience! Healthier Sweetener: Replace powdered sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option that’s still sweet, giving you a touch of caramel flavor without the guilt. You’ll love this subtle twist! Flavored Zest: Add lemon zest or orange zest to the filling for a fresh burst of citrus that brightens every delicious bite. These fruity notes contrast beautifully with the creamy filling. Vegan Delight: Use a vegan pie crust and coconut cream to create a dairy-free version. This variation allows everyone to enjoy a piece of indulgence, no matter their dietary preferences. Nutty Texture: Incorporate finely chopped pistachios or almonds directly into the filling for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy base. Spiced Adventure: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling along with the cinnamon for a warm, spiced undertone that transforms the classic into something completely unique. Chocolate Heaven: Swap mini chocolate chips for dark chocolate shavings; this will deepen the chocolate flavor and add an elegant flair. Everyone loves a little extra chocolate! Decadent Ganache: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cooled squares before serving to take them to a whole new level of indulgence. It’s the perfect finishing touch for special occasions! If you’re looking for a different creamy treat, check out my scrumptious Lemon Cream Cheese recipe for even more sweet inspiration! What to Serve with Classic Cannoli Squares Indulging in these creamy squares is just the beginning; let’s elevate your dessert experience with perfect pairings. Rich Espresso: A strong cup of freshly brewed espresso beautifully balances the sweetness of the cannoli squares, enhancing the dessert’s flavors. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the rich filling while providing a delightful temperature contrast, making every bite more enjoyable. Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries introduces a juicy freshness that cuts through the richness, lending a pop of color to your dessert table. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted dark chocolate over the squares adds an extra layer of decadence, creating an elegant finish that chocolate lovers will adore. Pistachio Praline: Crunchy pistachio praline pieces not only add texture but also a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and flaky crust. Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cannoli squares, slowly cleansing the palate after each bite. Maraschino Cherries: For a nostalgic touch, garnish your squares with maraschino cherries. Their sweet-tart flavor enhances the overall flavor profile, while also adding a vibrant pop of color. Lemon Sorbet: For a lighter option, serve with a scoop of lemon sorbet; its tartness cuts through the richness while cleansing the palate wonderfully. Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an airy lightness to each serving, making it even more tempting to dig in! Chocolate Malt Beverage: Pairing with a chocolate malt drink can transform your dessert into a nostalgic experience, adding a fun twist to the traditional sweet. Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe FAQs What type of ricotta cheese should I use for the filling? I recommend using whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can opt for part-skim ricotta. Make sure to drain the ricotta fully using a fine-mesh sieve to remove excess moisture; this helps achieve the thick, decadent filling you love. How should I store leftover Classic Cannoli Squares? Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep your squares fresh while preserving their creamy filling and flaky crust. Can I freeze the Classic Cannoli Squares? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh the crust. Why did my filling turn out runny? A runny filling is often caused by using ricotta with too much moisture. To prevent this, always drain the ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve before combining it with other ingredients. If you encounter this issue, you can try adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar to the filling to thicken it slightly. What if I have a nut allergy; can I still enjoy these Classic Cannoli Squares? Absolutely! The recipe does not require nuts, but be cautious with any optional garnishes. Simply omit the chopped pistachios and use maraschino cherries or extra chocolate chips for decorating, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat without worry. How can I tell when my Cannoli Squares are done baking? Keep an eye on the squares during the last few minutes of baking; they’re done when the top crust turns a beautiful golden brown. You can also gently press the center – it should be set but still soft, not jiggly, indicating that the filling has cooked through without over-baking. Classic Cannoli Squares - Indulgent Creamy Delight at Home Classic Cannoli Squares are a delightful twist on the Italian treat, combining creamy filling and flaky crust for irresistible indulgence. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 9 squaresCourse: DessertCuisine: ItalianCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Creamy Filling15 oz Ricotta Cheese Consider substituting with mascarpone for a luxurious twist.1 cup Powdered Sugar You can opt for coconut sugar for a healthier version!1 tsp Vanilla Extract This ingredient is irreplaceable for authenticity.1 tsp Cinnamon Feel free to omit for a simpler taste.1 cup Mini Chocolate Chips Dark chocolate chips work beautifully for a richer flavor.For the Crust1 package Pre-made Pie Crust For a personalized touch, homemade crust will elevate the flavor!1 large Egg This helps achieve that golden, glossy crust; can be omitted for vegetarian.1 tbsp Sugar No substitutions needed for that golden finish.Optional Garnishes1 cup Chopped Pistachios For a nutty crunch and vibrant color!1 cup Maraschino Cherries Add a pop of color and sweetness for a festive touch.Extra Chocolate Chips Because you can never have too much chocolate! Equipment Mixing bowlhand mixer or whisk9x9-inch baking dishSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.Open your pre-made pie crust and press it into a 9x9-inch baking dish.Spread the prepared ricotta mixture evenly over the crust.Roll out a second pie crust and place it over the filled dish. Seal the edges and brush the top with the beaten egg.Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.Allow to cool for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1squareCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 90mgSugar: 18gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure your ricotta cheese is drained thoroughly to avoid a watery filling. Experiment with flavors like lemon zest for a delightful twist. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
