Print

Easy Cannoli Squares Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 58 reviews

Cannoli Squares are an easy and delicious Italian dessert that captures the classic flavors of cannoli in a simple baked square form. Featuring a creamy ricotta filling with chocolate chips nestled between flaky pie crusts, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. The recipe uses pre-made pie crusts for convenience and includes optional garnishes like chopped pistachios and maraschino cherries to add texture and color.

Ingredients

For the Filling

  • 2 cups Ricotta Cheese (whole milk), strained if watery
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar or substitute with coconut sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips

For the Crust

  • 2 sheets Pre-made Pie Crusts or homemade for extra buttery flavor
  • 1 large Egg, for brushing top crust
  • 1 tbsp Sugar for sprinkling on top

Optional Garnishes

  • 2 tbsp Chopped Pistachios
  • 4 pieces Maraschino Cherries
  • 2 tbsp Extra Mini Chocolate Chips for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Whisk the mixture until smooth and creamy. If the ricotta is watery, strain it beforehand to prevent sogginess.
  2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking and to achieve a flaky, golden crust.
  3. Assemble Bottom Crust: Press one sheet of pie crust into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking dish, making sure to cover the corners evenly for a uniform base.
  4. Spread Filling: Evenly spread the prepared ricotta mixture over the bottom crust, leaving a small edge around the perimeter free to seal the top crust properly.
  5. Add Top Crust: Lay the second pie crust over the filling. Seal the edges by pinching together or pressing with a fork. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle sugar evenly over it to enhance browning and add a slight crunch.
  6. Bake: Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crisp. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil to prevent burning.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cannoli squares to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, or additional mini chocolate chips if desired.

Notes

  • Strain ricotta if watery to avoid a soggy crust.
  • Use homemade pie crust for a richer, buttery flavor.
  • Cover with foil during baking if the crust browns too fast.
  • Chill before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
  • Optional garnishes add extra texture and flavor but can be omitted.

Find it online: https://oliviabakes.com/easy-cannoli-squares-recipe/