As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of baked pastry began to fill the air, transporting me straight to an Italian piazza. These Classic Cannoli Squares are not just a delightful treat, but a celebration of flavors, combining rich ricotta with a hint of lemon zest and a touch of chocolate. The best part? They’re surprisingly simple to whip up and make for an impressive dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. With just a few ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s not only fun to make but also offers the convenience of prepping ahead and chilling in the fridge. Ready to delve into this delicious journey? Let’s get started!
Why are these Cannoli Squares irresistible?
Simplicity: With just a few ingredients, these decadent treats come together easily, perfect for beginners and seasoned chefs alike.
Rich Flavor: The creamy ricotta filling, enhanced by lemon zest and cinnamon, delivers a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.
Versatile Serving: Dressed up with powdered sugar, nuts, or chocolate drizzle, they adapt to any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings.
Make Ahead: They chill beautifully, allowing you to prepare in advance and serve when ready, saving you time and stress.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with friends, these Cannoli Squares are guaranteed to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth!
Cannoli Squares Ingredients
• Get ready to create a sweet masterpiece!
For the Pastry
- Puff pastry sheets – 1 ½ cups; these flaky layers provide the perfect base for your Cannoli Squares.
- Egg – 1, for egg wash; helps to achieve that golden, crispy finish on the pastry.
For the Ricotta Filling
- Ricotta cheese – 1 ½ cups; this creamy cheese is the star of your filling, bringing that authentic cannoli flavor.
- Powdered sugar – ¾ cup; adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the richness of the ricotta.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon; enhances the overall flavor with a warm, inviting note.
- Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon; a hint of citrus brightens the filling beautifully.
- Cinnamon – ¼ teaspoon; adds a warm spice that complements the other flavors.
- Mini chocolate chips – ½ cup; these little morsels bring delightful bites of chocolate throughout the filling.
Optional Garnishes
- Powdered sugar – for dusting; adds a lovely finishing touch to your Cannoli Squares.
- Crushed pistachios – for garnish; provide a pop of color and a nutty crunch.
- Melted chocolate – for drizzling; adds an extra layer of indulgence to your dessert.
Enjoy crafting these delicious Cannoli Squares, perfect for any occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cannoli Squares
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 30 minutes. On a floured surface, roll out the sheets slightly for a more even texture. Cut the pastry into square shapes, approximately 3 inches by 3 inches, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each square with an egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden finish.
Step 2: Bake the Pastry Squares
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the puff pastry squares for about 15 minutes, or until they are puffed up and a beautiful golden brown color. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should look light and airy. Once baked, remove the squares from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of ricotta cheese, ¾ cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, and ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Gently fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the sweet ricotta filling, which will be spooned into your Cannoli Squares.
Step 4: Assemble the Cannoli Squares
Once your puff pastry squares have cooled, carefully slice each square in half horizontally. This will create a top and bottom layer for your Cannoli Squares. Spoon or pipe the ricotta filling onto the bottom half, allowing it to be generous yet not overflowing, then place the top layer over it. This creates a lovely sandwich of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Chill the Assembled Squares
After assembling the Cannoli Squares, refrigerate them for at least one hour. This chilling time is essential for the filling to set properly, allowing all those delightful flavors to meld together. When ready to serve, the squares will be firm and the pastry will remain nicely crisp.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving your Cannoli Squares, dust them with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. For added flavor and texture, sprinkle with crushed pistachios or drizzle melted chocolate over the top. These finishing touches make for a visually stunning presentation and enhance the overall indulgence of this delicious dessert.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Creation
Serve your Cannoli Squares chilled, beautifully arranged on a rustic wooden board or sleek dessert platter. They pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a cup of espresso, making for a truly delightful experience. Gather friends and family around to share these delectable treats, and celebrate the joy of homemade desserts!
How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Squares
Fridge: Keep your Cannoli Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap individual Cannoli Squares tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating: To regain the crispiness of the puff pastry, warm the squares in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Serving: When ready to enjoy, dust with powdered sugar or add a drizzle of melted chocolate for a delightful presentation!
What to Serve with Classic Cannoli Squares?
These delightful treats are perfect for rounding out your next meal, offering a touch of Italian charm to any gathering.
-
Espresso: A small, strong cup of espresso elevates the dessert experience, contrasting the sweetness of the cannoli squares beautifully.
-
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the richness with their natural tartness.
-
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream complements the creamy filling of the cannoli squares, adding another layer of indulgence.
-
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce enhances the experience, turning each bite into a decadent delight that's hard to resist.
-
Crushed Pistachios: Scatter crushed pistachios on top for extra crunch and a lovely nutty flavor that pairs well with the creamy cheese filling.
-
Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only add a pop of color but also a wonderful aromatic freshness that brightens the dessert.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a lovely warm and cold contrast that is utterly satisfying.
-
Amaretto or Limoncello: These sweet Italian liqueurs add a sophisticated touch, making your dessert experience feel even more special.
-
Almond Biscotti: Pairing the cannoli squares with almond biscotti offers a delightful crunch that complements the pastry’s flakiness.
Cannoli Squares: Easy Variations
Feel free to embark on a creative journey with these delightful Cannoli Squares, enhancing flavors and textures to suit your taste!
-
Dairy-Free: Swap ricotta with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative blended with almond milk for a creamy filling.
-
Nutty Twist: Add ¼ cup of finely chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for a crunchy texture and rich flavor in the filling.
-
Fruit-Infused: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped strawberries or peaches into the ricotta mixture for a fruity surprise that’s refreshing and delightful.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a subtle heat that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.
-
Chocolate Lovers: Use cocoa powder in place of a portion of powdered sugar for a chocolate-infused ricotta filling that deepens the flavor.
-
Whole Grain: Opt for whole wheat pastry sheets to enhance the nutritional value without sacrificing taste.
-
Citrus Burst: Swap lemon zest for orange zest to create a uniquely sweet and zesty flavor profile that brightens each bite.
-
Mini Cannoli: Use smaller pastry rounds or phyllo dough to create bite-sized cannoli squares perfect for gatherings or parties!
Make Ahead Options
These Cannoli Squares are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy days! You can prepare the puff pastry squares up to 24 hours in advance by baking them and storing the cooled squares in an airtight container at room temperature. For the ricotta filling, mix all ingredients (ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, cinnamon, and chocolate chips) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply slice the pastry and fill it with the chilled mixture, then let the assembled squares sit in the refrigerator for an hour to set. This way, you'll enjoy these delightful treats just as delicious and fresh with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Cannoli Squares
-
Perfect Puff Pastry: Always ensure your pastry is completely thawed before rolling. This helps achieve that ideal flaky texture without breakage.
-
Avoid Overfilling: When assembling, don’t overfill the Cannoli Squares with ricotta. A generous spoonful is perfect, but too much can cause spills and mess.
-
Chill Time Matters: Letting the assembled squares chill for at least an hour is crucial. This helps the filling set, preventing them from becoming soggy when served.
-
Garnish Wisely: Add garnishes like crushed pistachios or drizzled chocolate just before serving to maintain their crunch and visual appeal—fresher is better!
-
Storage Solutions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For optimal texture, reheat in the oven for a few minutes, keeping the pastry crisp.
Cannoli Squares Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best puff pastry sheets for my Cannoli Squares?
Absolutely! Look for puff pastry sheets that are well-packaged and free from any tears or holes. Always check the expiration date; fresh sheets will provide the best flaky texture. If possible, opt for all-butter puff pastry for enhanced flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftover Cannoli Squares?
Very good question! Store any leftover Cannoli Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps them maintain their freshness. If you prefer to enjoy them later, you can also freeze individual squares!
Can I freeze Cannoli Squares? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze your Cannoli Squares, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to one month. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.
What if my filling is too runny for the Cannoli Squares?
No worries! If you find your ricotta filling is too runny, try straining the ricotta cheese through a cheesecloth or a fine sieve to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. You can also add a bit more powdered sugar, which will help thicken it and maintain that delicious sweetness.
Are Cannoli Squares suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Regrettably, the traditional puff pastry used in Cannoli Squares contains gluten. However, you can find gluten-free puff pastry options available at certain stores. Always check the packaging to ensure all ingredients are safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Your friends with dietary restrictions will appreciate the thought!
How long do the Cannoli Squares need to chill and why?
I recommend chilling the assembled Cannoli Squares for at least one hour. This time allows the filling to set, making them easier to slice and serve later. It also lets all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing your overall indulgent experience!
Indulge in Delightful Cannoli Squares Made Easy
Equipment
- Oven
- mixing bowl
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- wire rack
Ingredients
For the Pastry
- 1.5 cups puff pastry sheets these flaky layers provide the perfect base for your Cannoli Squares
- 1 large egg for egg wash; helps achieve a golden finish
For the Ricotta Filling
- 1.5 cups ricotta cheese this creamy cheese is the star of your filling
- 0.75 cups powdered sugar adds sweetness to balance the richness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest adds a hint of citrus
- 0.25 teaspoon cinnamon complements the flavors
- 0.5 cups mini chocolate chips brings delightful bites of chocolate
Optional Garnishes
- powdered sugar for dusting
- crushed pistachios for garnish
- melted chocolate for drizzling
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cannoli Squares
- Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to package instructions, about 30 minutes. Roll out on a floured surface, cut into 3x3 inch squares, and brush with egg wash.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake squares for about 15 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and cinnamon until smooth. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Once cooled, slice each pastry square in half horizontally. Fill the bottom half with ricotta filling and place the top layer over it.
- Refrigerate the assembled squares for at least one hour to set the filling.
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with pistachios or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
