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Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe – Easy Italian Delight at Home

Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe is an easy dessert that combines a creamy ricotta filling atop a crispy shortbread crust, perfect for any celebration.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 48 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Course: DESSERTS
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitution: Gluten-free flour blend can be used for a gluten-free crust.
  • 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar Double-check for cornstarch content in gluten-free options.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Room temperature butter ensures easy blending.
For the Filling
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Use fresh, well-drained full-fat ricotta for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Always opt for pure vanilla for optimal taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon Omit if desired; orange zest can be a fragrant substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips Chopped dark chocolate is a richer alternative.
For Garnishing
  • 1 tablespoon Powdered Sugar Apply just before serving for optimal presentation.
  • Extra Chocolate Chips or Drizzle For added indulgence and decoration.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Pan
  • whisk

Method
 

How to Make Classic Cannoli Squares
  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
  2. Prepare Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
  4. Make Filling: In a separate bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips for added sweetness and texture.
  5. Spread Filling: Once the crust has cooled, evenly spread the ricotta mixture on top of the crust, smoothing it out for a lovely finish.
  6. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours, allowing it to set and meld the flavors together.
  7. Garnish & Serve: Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and drizzle extra chocolate if desired. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with fresh berries for a delicious contrast. Always use fresh ricotta and drain any excess moisture for a thick and creamy filling that won’t run.

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