Classic Cannoli Squares

The first time I made these classic cannoli squares, I couldn’t stop snacking on them. They have that same creamy filling and crisp flavor as regular cannoli, just in an easy square form. It’s the best of both worlds—simple and delicious.

I love how light and smooth the ricotta filling tastes. The crust has a soft crunch that melts perfectly with the cream. It’s a fun twist on a traditional Italian favorite.

Sometimes I dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle a little chocolate on top. They look fancy but take almost no effort. Everyone always asks for the recipe when I bring them out.

So grab your ingredients and a baking pan. Let’s make these sweet, creamy cannoli squares that taste just like the classic—but even easier.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: “The best cannoli dessert ever!” These squares have quickly become a go-to for dessert lovers.
• No Frying Required: You still get that crispy texture, but without the hassle of frying.
• Rich and Creamy: The ricotta cheese filling is light yet indulgent, perfectly balanced with the sweetness of powdered sugar.
• Quick and Easy: No need to pipe the filling into cannoli shells—just spread, bake, and enjoy!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving up a dessert for a holiday meal, family gathering, or special celebration, these cannoli squares are a showstopper.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the puff pastry.
• Baking Sheet: To bake the pastry squares.
• Parchment Paper: For lining the baking sheet to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
• Mixing Bowls: For preparing the ricotta filling and assembling the squares.
• Whisk: For mixing the ricotta filling until smooth.
• Pastry Brush: To apply the egg wash for a golden, crispy finish.
• Knife/Spatula: For cutting and serving the squares.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious cannoli squares (exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below):

• Puff Pastry Sheets: The base of the squares—easy to use and provides a flaky, buttery texture.
• Ricotta Cheese: The key to the creamy filling. Make sure to drain the ricotta well to avoid excess moisture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the ricotta mixture, making it deliciously creamy.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the filling.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Classic cannoli filling usually features chocolate chips, so we’re including them here to provide that familiar taste and texture.
• Orange Zest: A hint of citrus that brightens up the entire dessert and complements the rich filling.
• Cinnamon: A touch of cinnamon enhances the overall flavor, giving it a subtle warmth.
• Confectioner’s Sugar: For dusting the top of the baked squares and adding that finishing touch of sweetness.
• Egg (for egg wash): Helps to give the puff pastry a golden, crisp exterior.
• Pistachios (optional): Chopped pistachios provide a delightful crunch and a pop of color to garnish your cannoli squares.

Variations for Classic Cannoli Squares

• Substitute the Orange Zest: If you’re not a fan of orange, you can switch it up with lemon zest for a lighter, more refreshing flavor.
• Add More Chocolate: Increase the amount of mini chocolate chips in the filling for a richer, more decadent treat.
• Nuts: If pistachios aren’t your thing, feel free to substitute them with chopped hazelnuts or almonds.
• Add a Dash of Liqueur: For an extra special touch, you could add a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur, such as amaretto or rum, to the ricotta filling for added depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your puff pastry doesn’t stick and will bake evenly. Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheets on a clean, flat surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll them out to smooth out any creases and to slightly increase their size.

2. Cut the Pastry into Squares

Once your puff pastry is ready, cut it into squares of about 2 inches by 2 inches. These will serve as the base for your cannoli filling. Arrange the squares on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced about 1 inch apart to allow for puffing as they bake.

3. Prepare the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. Use a pastry brush to lightly brush the top of each puff pastry square. This will give them a beautiful golden brown color when they bake. Be sure not to overdo it; a thin layer will suffice.

4. Bake the Pastry

Place the puff pastry squares in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until they puff up and turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, as puff pastry can quickly go from perfectly golden to overdone.

5. Make the Ricotta Filling

While the pastry squares are baking, it’s time to prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and cinnamon. Using a whisk, mix everything together until the ricotta is smooth and creamy. Stir in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.

6. Assemble the Cannoli Squares

Once the puff pastry squares have cooled, it’s time to assemble your cannoli squares. Place a spoonful of the ricotta filling onto each pastry square. Spread the filling evenly across the surface, but leave the edges of the pastry exposed to maintain a clean presentation.

7. Garnish and Dust

If desired, sprinkle some chopped pistachios on top of the filling for added crunch and visual appeal. Finish off by dusting the tops with confectioner’s sugar for a touch of sweetness and a delicate finish.

How to Serve Classic Cannoli Squares

These delicious cannoli squares are perfect for serving at any event, whether it’s a casual get-together or a more formal dinner. Here’s how to serve them:

• As a Sweet Snack: Enjoy these squares as a simple treat with your afternoon coffee or tea.
• For Dessert: Serve them as a dessert at a dinner party or holiday meal. They’re sure to be a hit with your guests!
• For Potlucks or Bake Sales: These squares are easy to transport and share, making them a great option for potlucks or bake sales.

Storing Classic Cannoli Squares

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, but just in case!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for about 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the puff pastry may lose some of its crispness after being stored, but they’ll still taste delicious.

Nutrition (Per Square)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180
Total Fat	11g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	75mg
Total Carbohydrates	19g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	9g
Protein	3g

Conclusion

These Classic Cannoli Squares are a fabulous, easy-to-make dessert that brings all the delightful flavors of the traditional cannoli without the hassle. With a crisp, flaky puff pastry base, a rich and creamy ricotta filling, and a light dusting of powdered sugar, these squares are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re serving them at a party, sharing them with loved ones, or enjoying them all to yourself, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings!

Classic Cannoli Squares FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the puff pastry squares and prepare the ricotta filling a day ahead. Just assemble the squares when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Ricotta is traditional, but you can substitute mascarpone cheese for an even creamier filling.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?

Be sure to cool the pastry squares completely before adding the ricotta filling. This will help prevent any moisture from seeping into the puff pastry.

Can I freeze the squares?

While the baked pastry can be frozen, the ricotta filling may not hold up as well when frozen. It’s best to assemble the squares fresh or just freeze the pastry sheets for later use.