Why make this recipe
Classic Cannoli Squares are a fantastic twist on the traditional Italian dessert. They combine the creamy filling typical of cannoli with the flaky goodness of puff pastry. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just a treat after dinner. They are easy to make, and everyone will love the sweet ricotta filling and chocolate chips, making it a crowd-pleaser.
How to make Classic Cannoli Squares
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Cinnamon (optional for dusting)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into squares.
- Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spoon the ricotta mixture onto the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and press to seal. Use the egg wash to help it stick.
- Brush the tops of the squares with the egg wash.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly, then dust with cinnamon if desired.
- Serve and enjoy!
How to serve Classic Cannoli Squares
When serving Classic Cannoli Squares, you can arrange them on a platter. Dust them with powdered sugar or cinnamon for a nice touch. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them a great dessert after a meal. You can also add fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream on the side for extra flavor.
How to store Classic Cannoli Squares
To store your Classic Cannoli Squares, keep them in an airtight container. They can sit at room temperature for a day or two. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to make Classic Cannoli Squares
- Make sure the ricotta cheese is well-drained to avoid a soggy filling.
- Use fresh puff pastry for the best results. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
- Experiment with different fillings by adding nuts, dried fruits, or flavored extracts.
Variation
For a fun twist, you can try adding lemon zest to the ricotta filling for a refreshing citrus flavor. You can also use a flaky pie crust instead of puff pastry if you prefer.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the squares ahead of time. Just bake them fresh before serving for the best texture.
Q: What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
A: You can substitute ricotta with mascarpone cheese for a richer flavor.
Q: Can I use pre-made pastry dough?
A: Absolutely! Pre-made dough saves time and works perfectly for these squares. Just follow the same steps for assembly and baking.
Classic Cannoli Squares
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into squares.
- Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spoon the ricotta mixture onto the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and press to seal. Use the egg wash to help it stick.
- Brush the tops of the squares with the egg wash.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly, then dust with cinnamon if desired.
- When serving, arrange the squares on a platter and dust them with powdered sugar or cinnamon.
- They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea.
- You can also add fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream on the side for extra flavor.