Description
These Classic Cannoli Squares are a delightful twist on traditional cannoli, featuring a creamy ricotta filling sandwiched between two flaky pie crusts. Topped with mini chocolate chips, crunchy pistachios, and vibrant maraschino cherries, this easy-to-make dessert promises to wow your taste buds with every bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Mini chocolate chips (quantity to taste, about 1/4 cup)
Crust and Topping
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cannoli squares evenly.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble Squares: Place one pie crust flat in a baking dish. Pour the prepared ricotta filling evenly over the crust. Cover the filling with the second pie crust and seal the edges tightly by pinching to prevent leakage during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the large egg in a small bowl and brush it evenly over the top pie crust. This step creates a beautiful glossy finish once baked.
- Add Sugar and Bake: Sprinkle sugar over the top crust to add sweetness and a slight crunch. Bake the assembled squares in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the cannoli squares to cool completely before slicing. Garnish each square with chopped pistachios and halved maraschino cherries for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- Chill the filling for 30 minutes if you prefer a firmer consistency before assembling.
- Make sure to seal the edges well to avoid leakage during baking.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pistachios and substitute with additional chocolate chips or dried fruit.
- Leftovers can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerated for 2-3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
