?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dessert, cannoli. With layers of crispy pastry and a rich ricotta filling, it captures the essence of Italy. This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. Each bite is a creamy and crunchy experience that you won’t forget. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dessert!
Why You’ll Love This ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic
There are countless reasons to love this ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic. For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. You can enjoy the authentic flavors of Italy right in your kitchen. The use of a crispy puff pastry or graham cracker crust makes it a unique dessert. Plus, the creamy ricotta filling is not only indulgent but also packed with flavor from the vanilla and cinnamon. Each square is adorned with mini chocolate chips, adding the perfect touch of sweetness. This dessert is also vegetarian, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. Lastly, it’s a visually appealing dish that can impress your guests!

Ingredients for ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic
Gather these items:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (or graham cracker crust)
- 2 cups full-fat ricotta, drained overnight
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional: orange zest or candied citrus
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Prepare Crust: Bake puff pastry or set graham cracker crust in a 9×13-inch pan. Cool completely.
- Step 2: Drain Ricotta: Place ricotta in cheesecloth or strainer overnight to remove excess moisture.
- Step 3: Make Filling: Mix ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate chips until smooth.
- Step 4: Assemble: Spread filling evenly over cooled crust. Smooth top with spatula.
- Step 5: Chill: Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until firm.
- Step 6: Serve: Cut into squares, dust with powdered sugar, and garnish with zest or shaved chocolate.
Pro Tips for the Best ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure that the ricotta is thoroughly drained to avoid a watery filling.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding some orange zest to the filling.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best taste.
- This recipe works well with a variety of toppings, so feel free to get creative!

Best Ways to Serve ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic
Here are some serving ideas to enhance your dessert experience:
- Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve alongside fresh berries for a refreshing touch.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Store and Reheat ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic
To store, keep the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, you can enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature for a while. Alternatively, they can be frozen for longer storage; just ensure they are wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.
Frequently Asked Questions About ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic
What’s the secret to perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic?
The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients, especially the ricotta. Make sure it’s well-drained and fresh for the best flavor. Additionally, chilling the assembled squares thoroughly helps them set perfectly.
Can I make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. Just remember to cover it well in the refrigerator.
How do I avoid common mistakes with ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic?
One common mistake is not draining the ricotta long enough; this can cause a soggy filling. Also, avoid overfilling the squares, as this can lead to messy servings. Follow the recipe closely for best results.
Variations of ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with these variations:
- Substitute the puff pastry for a gluten-free option to cater to dietary restrictions.
- Add different flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, for a unique twist.
- Incorporate fresh fruit into the filling for added freshness and flavor.
- Swap out mini chocolate chips for crushed nuts or dried fruits to change the texture.
For more information on the history of cannoli, you can check out this detailed article. If you’re interested in exploring more Italian desserts, visit this page for some delicious options. You can also learn about the best types of ricotta to use in desserts here.
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?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=classic Cannoli Squares Recipe
- Total Time: 210 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic cannoli squares are a fun twist on the traditional Italian pastry. With layers of crispy pastry, creamy ricotta filling, and chocolate chips, these squares are perfect for holidays, parties, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (or graham cracker crust)
- 2 cups full-fat ricotta, drained overnight
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional: orange zest or candied citrus
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: Bake puff pastry or set graham cracker crust in a 9×13-inch pan. Cool completely.
- Drain Ricotta: Place ricotta in cheesecloth or strainer overnight to remove excess moisture.
- Make Filling: Mix ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate chips until smooth.
- Assemble: Spread filling evenly over cooled crust. Smooth top with spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until firm.
- Serve: Cut into squares, dust with powdered sugar, and garnish with zest or shaved chocolate.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Classic Cannoli Squares, Italian Dessert, Easy Dessert Recipe