Description
Classic Cannoli Squares are a delightful Italian-inspired dessert featuring a creamy ricotta filling blended with sweet powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate chips, all encased in a golden, flaky pie crust. Baked to perfection and optionally garnished with chopped pistachios or maraschino cherries, this rich yet balanced treat combines traditional flavors with easy preparation to create a satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cannoli Filling:
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar (or coconut sugar as a healthier alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (preferably dark chocolate)
For the Cannoli Crust:
- 1 package (14 ounces) pre-made pie crusts or homemade pie crust to fit a 9×9-inch baking dish
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped pistachios
- Maraschino cherries
- Extra mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Mix until smooth and creamy. For a thicker filling, drain excess moisture from the ricotta using a fine-mesh sieve before mixing.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the pie crust will bake evenly and achieve a golden-brown finish.
- Roll Out the Pie Crust: If using homemade crust, roll it out to fit a 9×9-inch baking dish. For pre-made crusts, carefully unroll and press them into the baking dish, making sure there are no cracks or gaps.
- Add the Filling: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pie crust base using a spatula. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent filling overflow during baking.
- Prepare the Top Crust: Roll out a second pie crust to cover the filling. Place it over the filling and seal the edges by crimping with a fork. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for added sweetness and shine.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust turns a golden brown. Monitor closely to avoid over-baking.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cannoli squares from the oven and allow to cool for at least 30 minutes. Cut into squares and garnish with chopped pistachios, maraschino cherries, or extra chocolate chips if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For a thicker, creamier filling, strain ricotta cheese through a fine sieve to remove excess moisture before mixing.
- You can substitute part-skim or fat-free ricotta to reduce fat content.
- Try using natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit instead of powdered sugar for a lower-calorie version.
- Whole wheat pie crusts can be used to add fiber and nutrients.
- Ensure edges are well sealed to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Allow squares to cool fully before cutting to maintain shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Cannoli Squares, Ricotta Dessert, Italian Dessert, Baked Cannoli, Ricotta Cheese, Chocolate Chips, Pie Crust Dessert
