Best Classic Cannoli Squares – Creamy Italian Dessert Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of Italy without all the fuss, you’ve come to the right place! The Best Classic Cannoli Squares – Creamy Italian Dessert Bars are a delightful shortcut to enjoying the creamy, rich flavors of traditional cannoli. These squares are perfect for any occasion—be it a busy weeknight treat or a show-stopping sweet for family gatherings. With their crisp pastry layers and velvety ricotta filling, these dessert bars are sure to impress!

Making these cannoli squares is not only a breeze but also a chance to share a beloved Italian classic with friends and family. The recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers, yet it still delivers that authentic taste everyone loves.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With pre-made pie crusts, you’ll whip up this dessert in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the sweet, creamy filling.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling and crust ahead of time, making it easy to serve when guests arrive.
• Deliciously Versatile: Dress them up with your favorite toppings or mix-ins for a personalized touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand! This list keeps it straightforward while ensuring rich flavors in every bite.

• 2 cups whole milk Ricotta Cheese
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips
• 2 pre-made pie crusts
• 1 large Egg
• Sugar, for sprinkling
• 1/4 cup Chopped Pistachios
• 3 pieces Maraschino Cherries
• 1/4 cup Extra Chocolate Chips

Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cannoli squares! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Citrus Zest: For a refreshing twist, stir in some lemon or orange zest into the ricotta filling.
• Try Different Mix-ins: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips or add dried fruits like raisins or cherries.
• Make It Nut-Free: Skip the pistachios if you’re serving someone with nut allergies and top with extra chocolate instead!
• Swap the Sweetener: Use honey or agave syrup instead of powdered sugar for a healthier alternative.

How to Make Best Classic Cannoli Squares – Creamy Italian Dessert Bars

Step 1: Drain Ricotta

Start by draining your ricotta cheese. This step is crucial because removing excess liquid will ensure your filling is thick and firm. Place 2 cups of whole milk ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth over a bowl. Let it refrigerate and drain for at least 4 hours—overnight if you can!

Step 2: Prepare Filling

Once your ricotta has drained, it’s time to make that luscious filling. Transfer the ricotta into a large mixing bowl and add 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Beat everything together using an electric mixer until it’s incredibly smooth and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Gently fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips before covering the bowl and refrigerating for at least 30 minutes. This helps meld those delicious flavors!

Step 3: Prepare & Bake Crusts

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you work on the crusts. Unroll your two pre-made pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface and cut them into approximately 3×3-inch squares. Whisk 1 large egg for an egg wash and brush it over each square before sprinkling generously with sugar. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 10–15 minutes until they’re golden brown and crisp. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Assemble Squares

Now comes the fun part! Take your chilled ricotta filling and transfer it into a piping bag fitted with a large round or star tip. Grab one cooled pastry square and pipe a generous dollop of filling onto its center. Gently press another pastry square on top to create layers. If you want even taller squares, consider adding another layer of filling and topping it off with another pastry square!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish off your beautiful cannoli squares, lightly dust the tops with additional powdered sugar using a small sieve. For extra flair, sprinkle some chopped pistachios or extra chocolate chips on top—or even add maraschino cherries for that classic touch! Serve immediately so everyone can enjoy them at their peak crispness.

And there you have it—a scrumptious dessert that’s sure to be loved by all! Enjoy every last bite of these delightful Best Classic Cannoli Squares – Creamy Italian Dessert Bars!

Pro Tips for Making Best Classic Cannoli Squares – Creamy Italian Dessert Bars

Creating these delightful Cannoli Squares is a breeze with just a few handy tips to ensure perfection!

• Drain the Ricotta Well: Properly draining the ricotta cheese overnight helps achieve a thick and creamy filling, preventing your squares from becoming soggy.

• Chill Your Filling: Allowing the filling to chill for at least 30 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also makes it easier to pipe and layer between the crispy pastry squares.

• Keep Crusts Crisp: Bake your pie crusts until they are golden brown. This ensures they stay crunchy even after being filled, maintaining that delicious contrast in texture.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a splash of almond extract or citrus zest to the ricotta filling for a unique twist that complements the classic flavor profile beautifully.

• Serve Fresh: For maximum crispness, assemble your Cannoli Squares just before serving. This keeps the pastry layers from becoming soft, ensuring every bite is as delightful as intended.

How to Serve Best Classic Cannoli Squares – Creamy Italian Dessert Bars

Serving these Cannoli Squares can be as fun and creative as making them! Here are some ideas to present this elegant dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top instantly elevates the appearance, giving it that classic cannoli look.
• Chopped Pistachios: Sprinkling chopped pistachios not only adds a pop of color but also provides a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
• Maraschino Cherries: Topping each square with a maraschino cherry adds a touch of sweetness and an inviting visual appeal, making them even more tempting.

Side Dishes

• Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of espresso or coffee pairs perfectly with these dessert bars, complementing their sweetness while enhancing the overall experience.
• Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast that balances out the richness of the cannoli squares.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds indulgence and makes for a wonderful combination with the crunchy pastry and rich filling.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling some chocolate sauce over the top provides an extra layer of decadence and can satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in your culinary arsenal, you’re all set to impress! Enjoy sharing these Best Classic Cannoli Squares with family and friends—each bite is bound to bring smiles all around!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about these Classic Cannoli Squares is that they are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, ensuring that you have a delightful dessert ready to impress family and friends whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Cannoli Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. Just be aware that the pastry may lose some crispness in the fridge.

Freezing

• To freeze Cannoli Squares, assemble them without any toppings or garnishes.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding your toppings.

Reheating

• For optimal texture, reheat the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making the Best Classic Cannoli Squares – Creamy Italian Dessert Bars!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Ricotta?

While Ricotta is traditional for a creamy texture, you could experiment with mascarpone cheese or even a vegan cream cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.

How long do the Best Classic Cannoli Squares last?

These dessert bars can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for about a week. Just remember they are best enjoyed fresh!

Can I make these Cannoli Squares without chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can omit the chocolate chips if preferred or replace them with dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots for a twist on flavor.

What is the best way to serve the Best Classic Cannoli Squares?

Serve these delicious squares chilled after dusting with powdered sugar and garnishing with pistachios and cherries! They’re perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Best Classic Cannoli Squares – Creamy Italian Dessert Bars! This recipe captures all the charm of authentic Italian desserts while being incredibly easy to prepare. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, these squares are sure to delight everyone who tries them. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!