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Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

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4.5 from 81 reviews

Classic Cannoli Squares combine a tender, buttery crust with a creamy ricotta filling infused with vanilla and cinnamon, studded with mini chocolate chips. Perfectly chilled and dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate, these easy no-bake dessert squares capture the beloved flavors of traditional cannoli in a convenient bar form.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Ricotta Filling

  • 16 oz ricotta cheese, drained
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

For Garnish

  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Extra chocolate chips or melted chocolate drizzle (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper to allow for easy removal of the bars later.
  2. Make Crust: In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened unsalted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust base.
  3. Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
  4. Prepare Ricotta Filling: In a separate bowl, beat together the drained ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
  5. Spread Filling: Once the crust has fully cooled, spread the ricotta filling evenly over the crust layer using a spatula. Smooth the top for an even layer.
  6. Chill Squares: Refrigerate the assembled cannoli squares for at least 2 hours. This chilling step helps the filling set, making it easier to slice.
  7. Optional Garnish: Before serving, dust the top of the squares with powdered sugar, drizzle melted chocolate over them, or sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips for added decoration and flavor.
  8. Slice and Serve: Lift the set squares from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 12 equal squares and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese well to avoid a watery filling.
  • Chilling time can be extended up to overnight for firmer squares.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • The optional cinnamon adds a warm spice note but can be omitted if preferred.

Keywords: Cannoli squares, ricotta dessert, Italian dessert bars, easy cannoli recipe, baked cannoli, chocolate chip dessert

Find it online: https://cheframiflavor.com/classic-cannoli-squares-recipe/