Name: Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese; 1 cup powdered sugar or coconut sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips; 2 pre-made pie crusts or homemade; 1 large egg (for egg wash); Chopped pistachios for topping; Maraschino cherries for topping

Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dessert. These squares combine a creamy, rich ricotta filling with a crispy crust, making them perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. The unique combination of textures and flavors will truly wow your taste buds and leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these squares come together quickly for any home cook.
Rich Flavor: The creamy ricotta filling paired with mini chocolate chips creates an indulgent treat that satisfies your sweet cravings.
Versatile Presentation: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners—these squares can impress guests while being easy to serve.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or add different toppings like nuts or fruits according to your taste preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: These squares are a favorite among both kids and adults, making them an excellent choice for any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Classic Cannoli Squares, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking dish
Rolling pin (if making homemade crust)
Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining the ricotta with other ingredients evenly.
Pastry brush: This tool helps apply egg wash smoothly over the crust for that beautiful golden finish.

Ingredients

Classic Cannoli Squares are an easy twist on the traditional dessert, boasting a creamy ricotta filling and a golden crispy crust.

For the Filling

2 cups Ricotta Cheese (use whole milk for a richer texture)
1 cup Powdered Sugar (substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (opt for pure vanilla for the best taste)
1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (omit if you prefer a classic cannoli flavor)
1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (dark chocolate enhances richness)

For the Crust

2 pre-made pie crusts (homemade crust works beautifully, too)

For Topping

1 large Egg (for an egg wash that gives a glossy finish)
Sugar (for sprinkling) (adds a sweet crunch on top when baked)
1/4 cup Chopped Pistachios (offers a delightful crunch and color)
3 pieces Maraschino Cherries (adds a pop of sweetness and decoration)
1/4 cup Extra Chocolate Chips (for those who can’t get enough chocolate)

How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. The ricotta cheese,
2. Powdered sugar,
3. Vanilla extract,
4. Cinnamon,
5. Mini chocolate chips.
Use a whisk to blend until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Squares

Roll out one pie crust into the baking dish, pressing it firmly against the bottom.
Pour the ricotta mixture onto the crust evenly.
Place the second pie crust on top, sealing edges well.
Brush with beaten egg for glossiness.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle sugar on top before finishing baking for extra sweetness.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares. Top each square with chopped pistachios and a maraschino cherry for decoration.

Enjoy your delicious Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds!

How to Serve Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Classic Cannoli Squares are not just delicious; they are also visually appealing. Serving them in creative ways can enhance the overall experience for your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Individual Portions

Serve each square on a small dessert plate for an elegant touch.
Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added flair.

Family Style

Arrange the squares on a large platter, allowing guests to help themselves.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce or a berry compote for a burst of flavor.

With Fresh Fruit

Pair the cannoli squares with fresh berries or sliced fruits.
The acidity of fruits like strawberries balances the sweetness of the dessert.

Coffee Pairing

Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso.
The rich flavors complement the creamy texture of the cannoli squares perfectly.

How to Perfect Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Perfecting your Classic Cannoli Squares can elevate this dessert from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips to ensure your squares turn out amazing every time.

Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for whole milk ricotta and pure vanilla extract. Quality ingredients significantly impact flavor.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the squares to cool and set in the refrigerator before serving. This helps firm up the filling and enhances flavors.
Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or even drizzled chocolate for variety in presentation and taste.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking process to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without overcooking.
Customize Fillings: Feel free to add zest from citrus fruits or substitute some chocolate chips with dried fruit for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

To make your dessert spread more exciting, consider pairing your Classic Cannoli Squares with these delicious side dishes:

Fresh Berry Salad
A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds freshness and balances sweetness.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Creamy vanilla ice cream offers a classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of cannoli squares.
Chocolate Mousse
Light and airy chocolate mousse provides a rich contrast and is sure to impress your guests.
Pistachio Crumble
A crunchy pistachio crumble adds an extra layer of texture that pairs beautifully with the soft filling.
Coffee Granita
A refreshing coffee granita serves as a palate cleanser while enhancing the Italian theme.
Lemon Sorbet
The tartness of lemon sorbet cuts through sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate.
Almond Biscotti
These crunchy treats offer another layer of flavor that diners can enjoy alongside their squares.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle
Serve warm caramel sauce for dipping or drizzling over both cannoli squares and side dishes for added decadence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Classic Cannoli Squares turn out perfect, here are some common mistakes to avoid.

Using low-quality ricotta: Opt for whole milk ricotta cheese for a creamier texture and richer flavor. Low-quality options can lead to a disappointing filling.
Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash gives your squares a beautiful golden finish. Don’t skip this step if you want that appealing look!
Overfilling the crust: Adding too much filling can cause the squares to overflow during baking. Stick to the recommended amount for the best results.
Not letting them cool: Allow your Classic Cannoli Squares to cool completely before serving. This step helps the filling set and makes cutting easier.
Using stale pie crusts: Always check your pie crusts for freshness. Stale crusts can ruin the texture and flavor of your dessert.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these Classic Cannoli Squares, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese, but this will change the flavor profile slightly.

How can I make these gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Classic Cannoli Squares, use gluten-free pie crusts available at most grocery stores.

What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?

You can chop regular-sized chocolate bars into smaller pieces as an alternative!

How do I customize my Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds?

Feel free to add fruit zests, nuts, or spices like nutmeg for added flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

These Classic Cannoli Squares are sure to impress with their delicious creamy filling and crispy crust. They are versatile enough for any occasion, allowing you to customize flavors and toppings according to your preference. Try them out today!