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Why These Classic Cannoli Squares Work

What You’ll Need for Classic Cannoli Squares

How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares

Serving and Storage Tips for Classic Cannoli Squares

Mistakes to Avoid while making Classic Cannoli Squares

Suggestions for Classic Cannoli Squares

Conclusion

Classic Cannoli Squares

Name: Classic Cannoli Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Classic cannoli squares bring the beloved Italian dessert into a convenient, shareable format that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. These delightful treats capture all the creamy, sweet flavors of traditional cannoli while eliminating the time-consuming process of filling individual shells. With a tender pastry base, rich ricotta filling, and delicate chocolate chips, these squares offer an affordable way to enjoy gourmet flavors at home.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Budget-friendly dessert that costs under $10 to make and serves multiple people, making it perfect for family gatherings
No special cannoli tubes or deep frying required – just simple baking techniques anyone can master
Rich in protein from ricotta cheese, providing calcium and essential nutrients for bone health
Make-ahead friendly recipe that actually tastes better after chilling overnight in the refrigerator
Customizable filling allows you to adjust sweetness levels and add your favorite mix-ins like pistachios or orange zest

Why These Classic Cannoli Squares Work

The genius behind classic cannoli squares lies in their simplified approach to a complex dessert. Traditional cannoli recipes require specialized equipment and advanced techniques, but this version delivers the same satisfying results with basic baking skills.

The pastry layers create the perfect texture contrast – crispy on the outside, tender within. The ricotta filling provides natural sweetness and creamy richness without being overly heavy. This makes them ideal for holiday celebrations, potluck dinners, or weekend family treats.

These squares offer excellent nutritional value compared to many desserts. Ricotta cheese provides high-quality protein and calcium, while the moderate sugar content keeps them from being overly indulgent. They’re also portion-controlled, making it easier to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging.

What You’ll Need for Classic Cannoli Squares

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity (Approx)	Purpose / Notes
All-purpose flour	2 cups	Creates the pastry base structure
Granulated sugar	1/2 cup	Sweetens the pastry dough
Salt	1/4 teaspoon	Enhances flavor balance
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup, melted	Adds richness and tenderness
Large eggs	2	Binds ingredients together
Whole milk ricotta cheese	2 cups	Main filling component
Powdered sugar	1 cup	Sweetens and smooths filling
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	Adds aromatic depth
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon	Traditional cannoli spice
Mini chocolate chips	1/2 cup	Classic cannoli texture element

Tools

Tool	Purpose
9×13 inch baking dish	Forms the square shape and even baking
Large mixing bowls	Separate wet and dry ingredient mixing
Rolling pin	Creates even pastry thickness
Wire whisk	Incorporates air into filling mixture
Measuring cups and spoons	Ensures accurate ingredient proportions

How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares

Step	Instructions
Preparation	Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease baking dish with nonstick spray
Make Dough	Mix flour, granulated sugar, and salt in one bowl. Whisk eggs and melted butter in another, then combine to form soft dough
First Bake	Roll out half the dough and place in greased dish. Bake 15 minutes until lightly golden
Prepare Filling	Combine ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and chocolate chips until smooth
Assemble	Spread filling over cooled crust, then cover with remaining rolled dough
Final Bake	Bake additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely before slicing

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Chef's Helpful Tips

Drain ricotta cheese on paper towels for 30 minutes before using to prevent soggy squares
Roll dough between parchment paper sheets for easier handling and transfer to baking dish
Let the first crust layer cool for 10 minutes before adding filling to prevent melting
Score the top crust lightly before final baking to create clean cutting lines later
Chill completed squares for at least 2 hours before serving for best texture and easier slicing

Serving and Storage Tips for Classic Cannoli Squares

Serving Tips

Classic cannoli squares taste best when served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Cut them into neat 2-inch squares using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Dust lightly with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant presentation.

These squares pair wonderfully with strong coffee or espresso, making them perfect for dinner parties or after hearty meals. They’re also excellent for holiday cookie exchanges or potluck dessert tables.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Mistakes to Avoid while making Classic Cannoli Squares

The most common mistake is using ricotta cheese straight from the container without draining excess moisture. This creates soggy squares that fall apart when cut. Always drain ricotta on paper towels or through a fine-mesh strainer for at least 30 minutes.

Overbaking the bottom crust creates a tough, dry base that detracts from the overall texture. Watch for light golden color rather than deep brown. Similarly, underbaking the top layer leaves raw dough that tastes unpleasant.

Cutting squares while still warm causes the filling to leak out and creates messy portions. Patience pays off – always cool completely and chill before slicing. Using a dull knife also tears the delicate layers instead of creating clean cuts.

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You Must Know

Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and create smoother textures in both dough and filling
Whole milk ricotta produces much better results than part-skim versions due to higher fat content
These squares actually improve in flavor after 24 hours as the pastry absorbs moisture from the filling
Substitute mini chocolate chips with chopped pistachios or candied citrus peel for authentic variations

Suggestions for Classic Cannoli Squares

Transform your classic cannoli squares with creative variations that maintain the traditional essence. Add orange zest to the ricotta filling for a bright citrus note, or incorporate chopped pistachios for authentic Sicilian flavor. Traditional cannoli variations offer excellent inspiration.

For special occasions, drizzle melted chocolate over cooled squares or dust with cinnamon sugar. These squares work beautifully alongside other Italian desserts like tiramisu or complement lighter cake options for varied dessert spreads.

Consider making mini versions in muffin tins for individual servings at parties. The same recipe works perfectly, just adjust baking times to 12-15 minutes per layer. These bite-sized treats are perfect for elegant gatherings or gift-giving during holidays.

FAQs:

Can I make classic cannoli squares ahead of time?

Yes, these squares actually improve when made 1-2 days ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator and the flavors will meld beautifully while maintaining the perfect texture.

What's the best way to cut clean squares?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. Make sure the squares are completely chilled, and score lightly before making full cuts through all layers.

Can I substitute low-fat ricotta cheese?

Whole milk ricotta works best for creamy texture and rich flavor. Low-fat versions can make the filling grainy and less satisfying, though they will work if that’s your preference.

How do I prevent soggy bottom crust?

Always drain ricotta cheese thoroughly before mixing the filling, and let the bottom crust cool slightly before adding the ricotta mixture to prevent excess moisture absorption.

Can I freeze classic cannoli squares?

Yes, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Classic cannoli squares offer all the beloved flavors of traditional Italian cannoli in a convenient, crowd-pleasing format. This recipe transforms an intimidating dessert into an approachable treat that anyone can master. With simple ingredients, basic techniques, and make-ahead convenience, these squares become your go-to dessert for family gatherings, potluck dinners, and special celebrations. The combination of tender pastry, creamy ricotta filling, and delicate chocolate chips creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and memorable, proving that sometimes the best recipes are the ones that bring classic flavors within easy reach.

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