There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a classic cannoli square, bursting with creamy ricotta filling and a touch of chocolate. The sweet aroma wafts through the air, promising a delightful experience that evokes memories of family gatherings and Italian feasts. Picture this: you’re at a lively party, laughter fills the room, and someone brings out these heavenly treats. Your heart skips a beat as you dive into a square, savoring its rich flavors and delightful crunch.
Now imagine sharing this joy with your friends and family during holidays or cozy get-togethers. Classic Cannoli Squares are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive celebration or just a regular Tuesday that needs some sweetness. So buckle up, because I’m about to take you on an unforgettable culinary journey that will make your taste buds dance with excitement.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Classic Cannoli Squares are easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
- Each bite offers an indulgent flavor profile that combines creamy ricotta and sweet chocolate seamlessly.
- Their stunning presentation makes them an eye-catching centerpiece for any dessert table.
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed at parties or as a comforting treat after dinner, these squares will never disappoint.
Ingredients for Classic Cannoli Squares
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ricotta Cheese: Use whole milk ricotta for a rich and creamy texture that’s essential for the filling.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetener is key for achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness in the filling.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor profile of the ricotta mixture.
Mini Chocolate Chips: These little gems add a delightful chocolatey crunch to each bite.
Pre-made Puff Pastry Sheets: Choose high-quality pastry sheets for best results—easy to handle and taste fantastic.
For Garnish:
Cocoa Powder: Dust on top for an elegant finish and added chocolate flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your baking dish. Spray an 8×8 inch square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so those tasty squares won’t stick around longer than they need to!
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out your pre-made puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut them into equal squares; they should comfortably fit in your baking dish without overlapping too much—think of it as creating adorable little beds for your filling.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips. Use an electric mixer if you want extra fluffiness—or channel your inner Italian grandma and whisk it by hand!
Step 4: Fill the Pastry
Spoon generous amounts of the creamy filling onto each puff pastry square. Be careful not to overfill; we’re going for delectable bites here—not pastry explosions! Fold over the corners of the pastry squares gently.
Step 5: Bake
Place those adorable pastries in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up like they just completed an intense yoga session.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let them cool slightly before dusting with cocoa powder—this adds sophistication without requiring fancy chef skills! Transfer them to plates and serve as delightful desserts that will impress everyone at the table.
Enjoy these Classic Cannoli Squares with family or friends; they are sure to bring smiles all around!
You Must Know
- These classic cannoli squares are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make.
- With layers of creamy filling and a crumbly crust, they’re a hit at any gathering.
- Plus, they give you that authentic Italian dessert experience without the fuss of traditional cannoli shells.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust first, allowing it to cool while you whip up the ricotta filling. Assemble the layers by spreading the filling on the cooled crust, then chill to set. This sequence ensures every bite is crisp and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute mascarpone for ricotta for an extra creamy texture. Add chocolate chips or candied orange peel into the filling for a twist. You can also sprinkle crushed pistachios on top for an elegant finish.
Storing & Reheating
Store your classic cannoli squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat slightly in the oven at a low temperature to keep the crust crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect classic cannoli squares, ensure your ricotta is well-drained before mixing.
- This prevents sogginess in your dessert.
- Chill the assembled squares long enough for flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing taste and texture.
- Don’t skip on garnishing; it adds visual appeal and flavor!
It was during a family gathering when someone suggested I try making classic cannoli squares instead of the usual cannoli. Everyone raved about them, making me realize how much easier they were to make—and how much everyone loved them!
FAQs :
What are Classic Cannoli Squares?
Classic Cannoli Squares are a delightful twist on traditional cannoli, featuring a creamy filling and a sweet pastry base. Unlike the classic tube-shaped dessert, these squares are easier to serve and enjoy. They combine ricotta cheese, chocolate chips, and a hint of vanilla to create a rich filling that is layered on top of a cookie-like crust. This recipe captures the essence of classic Italian cannoli while offering simplicity in preparation.
How do I store Classic Cannoli Squares?
To keep your Classic Cannoli Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to five days when properly stored. If you wish to prepare them in advance, consider making the crust and filling separately. Assemble just before serving to maintain the texture of the crust. Freezing is also an option; however, it can alter the texture slightly once thawed.
Can I make Classic Cannoli Squares gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily adapt the Classic Cannoli Squares recipe to be gluten-free by using gluten-free flour blends in place of all-purpose flour for the crust. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as ricotta cheese and chocolate chips, are also gluten-free certified. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dessert without worrying about gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
What variations can I try with Classic Cannoli Squares?
There are many delightful variations you can try with Classic Cannoli Squares. For instance, you might add different flavorings like almond extract or orange zest to the ricotta filling for a unique twist. Additionally, you can experiment with toppings such as crushed pistachios or drizzles of chocolate sauce. Each variation offers new flavors while keeping the essence of classic cannoli intact.
Conclusion for Classic Cannoli Squares :
Classic Cannoli Squares present a delicious alternative to traditional cannoli, combining ease of preparation with rich flavors. With their creamy filling made from ricotta cheese and chocolate chips atop a sweet pastry crust, these squares will satisfy any dessert lover’s cravings. Storing them correctly ensures freshness, while gluten-free adaptations allow more people to enjoy this treat. Feel free to explore various flavor variations to keep things exciting! Enjoy making and sharing these delightful desserts with friends and family!
Classic Cannoli Squares
Classic Cannoli Squares offer a delightful twist on the beloved Italian dessert, combining a creamy ricotta and chocolate filling with a flaky pastry shell. These easy-to-make squares are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations, ensuring that each bite delivers a burst of rich flavor and nostalgia. Treat your guests to these sophisticated yet simple desserts that capture the essence of traditional cannoli.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 sheets pre-made puff pastry (approx. 9x9 inches each)
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare an 8×8 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into equal squares.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips until well combined.
- Spoon the filling onto each pastry square, folding the corners over gently to create little pockets.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before dusting with cocoa powder before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cannoli square (50g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: - Ensure ricotta is well-drained for a firmer filling. - For added flavor, substitute mascarpone for ricotta or add zest from an orange or lemon. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
