Description
Indulge in the Irresistible Flavors of Classic Cannoli Squares. Cannoli, the beloved Italian pastry, has captured the hearts and taste buds of dessert enthusiasts worldwide. But what if you could enjoy the same creamy, decadent flavors in a convenient square form? Enter the Classic Cannoli Squares – a modern twist on a timeless classic that promises to delight your senses.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 pre-made pie crusts
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy. Fold in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure your Classic Cannoli Squares bake to perfection.
3. Roll Out the Bottom Crust: Unroll one of the pre-made pie crusts and press it firmly into a 9×9-inch baking dish, making sure it fits snugly in the corners.
4. Add the Filling: Spread the creamy ricotta filling evenly over the bottom crust, leaving a small edge around the sides.
5. Top with the Second Crust: Place the second pie crust over the filling, sealing the edges by crimping them with your fingers or a fork.
6. Prepare for Baking: Whisk the egg in a small bowl and brush the top crust with the beaten egg. Sprinkle the top with a light coating of sugar.
7. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top crust is golden brown and the filling is just starting to bubble.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the Classic Cannoli Squares to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy them warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Notes
Avoid Overmixing the Filling: Be gentle when mixing the ricotta filling to prevent the texture from becoming too dense or grainy. Fold in the chocolate chips with a light touch to maintain their shape.
Experiment with Flavor Variations: While the classic combination of ricotta, vanilla, and cinnamon is hard to beat, you can try adding a splash of almond or lemon extract to the filling for a unique twist. You can also substitute the mini chocolate chips with chopped nuts or other mix-ins of your choice.
Store Leftovers Properly: For maximum freshness, store any leftover Classic Cannoli Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed for up to 5 days, either chilled or brought to room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18 grams
- Sodium: 150 milligrams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 36 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 6 grams
- Cholesterol: 70 milligrams