Name: Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Mini chocolate chips (quantity to taste, about 1/4 cup); 2 pre-made pie crusts; 1 large egg (for egg wash); Sugar (for sprinkling on top, about 1 tablespoon); Chopped pistachios (for topping, about 1/4 cup); Maraschino cherries (for topping, about 9 cherries, halved)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 78 reviews

If you’ve ever wished for a dessert that combines the creamy richness of traditional Italian cannoli filling with the easy, satisfying form of a sliceable treat, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe. It takes all the best parts—velvety ricotta, sweet powdered sugar, and the crunch of mini chocolate chips—and wraps them up in a buttery, golden crust that bakes to perfection. Each bite delivers a heavenly balance of textures and flavors that feel both familiar and refreshingly new, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all by yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two dessert bars stacked on a white plate with a white marbled background. Each bar has three layers: a golden-brown crust at the bottom, a thick white cream layer in the middle filled with small dark chocolate chips, and a golden-brown top crust dusted with white powdered sugar. The top bar is decorated with green pistachio pieces and dark chocolate chips scattered on top and around the plate. The image is softly lit with warm, blurred lights in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients come together to create the magic of these squares, each chosen to build the perfect mix of creaminess, sweetness, and crunch. These essentials keep the recipe approachable but ensure every bite feels indulgent and flavorful.

2 cups ricotta cheese: The creamy heart of the filling, lending a light yet rich texture that’s incredibly satisfying.
1 cup powdered sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps achieve that smooth, luscious filling consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle hint of warmth and depth that elevates the flavor to something special.
2 pre-made pie crusts: The buttery, flaky containers that hold everything together with a golden, crisp finish.
1 large egg (for egg wash): Brushed on top of the crust to create a glossy, appetizing sheen that bakes to perfection.
Mini chocolate chips: Mixed into the filling for that delightful little bursts of chocolate throughout.
Pistachios and maraschino cherries for toppings: Add vibrant color, a bit of crunch, and a pop of fruity sweetness to finish the squares beautifully.

How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s nicely warmed when your dish is ready to go in. This even heat is crucial for baking the crust to that ideal golden-brown color, while gently cooking the creamy filling inside.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips. This combination creates a smooth, sweet, and flavorful filling that’s the star of the recipe. Whisk just until combined for a consistency that’s light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet.

Step 3: Assemble the Squares

Place one pie crust into your baking dish, making sure it fits snugly. Pour the ricotta filling evenly over the crust, spreading it gently to the edges. Cover with the second crust, then carefully pinch the edges together to seal in all that deliciousness, preventing any filling from bubbling out while baking.

Step 4: Add the Egg Wash

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it evenly over the top crust. This simple step adds a luscious, shiny finish that makes your squares look as amazing as they taste once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle a light dusting of sugar over the top, then pop the assembled dish into the oven. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the filling is set—your kitchen will start smelling heavenly by now!

Step 6: Cool and Decorate

Once out of the oven, allow your Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe to cool completely before slicing. This resting time helps the filling to firm up just right. Finally, top each square with chopped pistachios and a maraschino cherry for a burst of color and texture that makes each piece look irresistible.

How to Serve Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe

The image shows two layered square pastry pieces stacked on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each piece has three layers: a top golden-brown crispy pastry layer dusted with white powdered sugar, a middle thick creamy white layer mixed with small dark chocolate chips, and a bottom golden-brown crispy pastry layer. The top pastry piece is garnished with scattered green pistachio nuts, some of which also lie on the plate around the pastries. The background is softly blurred with warm, round light bokeh. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The best part about serving these squares is how easy it is to personalize their look and taste. A sprinkling of crushed pistachios adds a lovely crunch, while maraschino cherries provide vibrant color and a sweet pop. Don’t be shy—add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.

Side Dishes

Though these squares shine all on their own, pairing them with a cup of rich espresso or a scoop of vanilla gelato makes for a truly memorable dessert experience. Fresh berries on the side add a refreshing contrast that balances the richness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve these squares on a beautiful tray with edible flowers or mint leaves for a touch of elegance. Alternately, layer them in a dessert parfait glass with alternating layers of whipped cream and berry compote to create a stunning visual and flavor combination.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cannoli squares keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to cover them well to preserve their creamy filling and crisp crust without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these squares freeze well. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to one month while maintaining great flavor and texture.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw the squares in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes to refresh the crust’s crispness without compromising the filling’s smoothness.

FAQs

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ricotta filling a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. This can even help the flavors meld for an extra delicious result.

What if I don’t have pre-made pie crusts?

No worries—homemade pie crust works beautifully too. Just be sure to roll it out evenly to fit your baking dish and keep an eye on baking times, as homemade crusts can sometimes bake a bit faster or slower.

Can I substitute mini chocolate chips with something else?

Sure! Chopped dark chocolate, white chocolate chips, or even chopped candied fruit make great alternatives, adding their own unique twist to the filling.

Is it necessary to use an egg wash?

The egg wash isn’t mandatory but highly recommended for that beautiful shiny, golden top. If you prefer, a little milk or cream can be brushed on instead, although the finish might be less glossy.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Sealing the edges firmly by pinching the two crusts together is essential. You can also crimp the edges decoratively with a fork for a tighter seal and a charming look.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Classic Cannoli Squares That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. It’s a surefire way to bring a smile to any face, showcasing the wonderful flavors of cannoli in an easy, crowd-pleasing format. So why wait? Pull out those ingredients and treat yourself to this decadent delight—you deserve it!