Why Make This Recipe
Classic cannoli squares are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dessert. They capture that rich, creamy filling you love, all tucked into a golden pastry shell. The great part? You can whip them up quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love a dessert that looks impressive but is easy to make? This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. They’ll love helping to spoon the filling and fold the pastry!
How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares
This recipe is simple enough for any home cook. Here’s how to make these yummy cannoli squares step by step:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 package puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Cinnamon (for dusting)
- Chopped pistachios (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the pastry bakes up beautifully and evenly.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares. You want them to be big enough to hold a generous dollop of filling.
- Place the pastry squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes clean-up a breeze, and prevents sticking.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips. Mix it until everything is well combined. It should be creamy and sweet.
- Spoon this delicious ricotta mixture onto the center of each pastry square. Don’t hold back; let them be generous!
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to form a square shape. It’s okay if they aren’t perfect—impression doesn’t always equal perfection!
- Brush the tops of the squares with the beaten egg. This will give them that lovely golden finish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
- Let them cool on a wire rack, then dust with cinnamon and, if using, garnish with chopped pistachios for a pop of color and crunch.
How to Serve Classic Cannoli Squares
These cannoli squares are best served warm or at room temperature. You can arrange them on a beautiful platter to impress your family or guests. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. They also make a delightful treat with coffee or tea during afternoon snack time with your kiddos.
How to Store Classic Cannoli Squares
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for a few days, but I recommend enjoying them fresh for the best taste. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes just to warm them up again.
Tips to Make Classic Cannoli Squares
- Make sure your ricotta cheese is well drained so the filling isn’t too watery. You can use a fine mesh strainer if needed.
- If you want a nut-free version, just skip the pistachios and maybe add some more chocolate chips or fruit instead.
- Feel free to get creative! You can add some zest from an orange or lemon for a citrus kick in the filling.
Variation
Want to mix it up? Try adding some finely chopped dried fruits like cherries or apricots to the ricotta filling. They add a nice chewy texture and a burst of flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pastry?
Absolutely! If puff pastry isn’t your thing, try using phyllo dough. Just remember to layer it and brush with butter for a flaky finish.
2. Is there a way to make these dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the ricotta with a dairy-free cream cheese. Just make sure to choose a variety that whips well, or use blended silken tofu for a creamier texture.
3. Can I freeze these squares?
You can freeze the unbaked squares! Just assemble them, then place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
These classic cannoli squares are sure to bring joy to your family table. Happy cooking!
Print
Classic Cannoli Squares
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful twist on the traditional Italian dessert featuring creamy ricotta filling in a golden pastry shell.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 package puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Cinnamon (for dusting)
- Chopped pistachios (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares.
- Place the pastry squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips. Mix until creamy and sweet.
- Spoon the ricotta mixture onto the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to form a square shape.
- Brush the tops of the squares with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool on a wire rack, then dust with cinnamon and garnish with chopped pistachios if using.
Notes
Make sure your ricotta cheese is well drained. For a nut-free version, skip the pistachios and add more chocolate chips or fruit instead.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Cannoli, Dessert, Italian, Pastry, Sweet