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Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 134 reviews

Classic Cannoli Squares offer a delightful twist on traditional cannoli by combining a creamy ricotta filling with a flaky pie crust baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dessert features a luscious ricotta mixture flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips, sandwiched between two buttery pie crusts for a rich and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cannoli Filling:

  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess or low-fat for 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 (dark chocolate chips enhance richness)

For the Cannoli Crust:

  • 1 package (14 ounces) of 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

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips until smooth and well blended to create a creamy and flavorful filling.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the squares evenly.
  3. Roll Out the Pie Crust: Press one pie crust into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish, making sure it fits snugly against the edges to form the base of your dessert.
  4. Add the Filling: Evenly spread the ricotta filling over the prepared crust, smoothing it out with a spatula for uniform thickness.
  5. Prepare the Top Crust: Roll out the second pie crust and carefully place it over the filling. Seal the edges by pressing them together to prevent leaking. Brush the entire top crust with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sugar for a glossy, sweet finish.
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the cannoli squares for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the dessert to cool for at least 30 minutes to set properly before cutting into squares. Garnish with optional chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, or extra chocolate chips if desired, then serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use whole milk ricotta for a richer taste or low-fat ricotta for a lighter dessert.
  • Make sure to let the squares cool completely to avoid the filling from being too soft and messy when cutting.
  • You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator for convenience.
  • For added texture and flavor, toast the pistachios before garnishing.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Cannoli Squares, Ricotta Dessert, Italian Dessert, Easy Cannoli, Ricotta Pie, Chocolate Chip Dessert

Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/classic-cannoli-squares-recipe/