SPREAD LOVE

Classic Cannoli Squares: A Delightful Italian-Inspired Dessert

Name: Classic Cannoli Squares
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 1 h 18 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry; 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, drained; 1 cup mascarpone cheese (optional); 3/4 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips; Zest of 1 orange, plus extra for garnish

A classic Italian dessert can transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Rome or the sun-drenched coasts of Sicily. Cannoli, those deliciously crisp pastry tubes filled with sweet, creamy ricotta, have captivated dessert lovers worldwide for generations. But what if you could enjoy the same incredible flavors in an easier, more shareable form? Enter Classic Cannoli Squares, a delightful twist on the traditional dessert that is sure to please your guests and family alike. Creamy, rich, and refreshing, these squares are a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the fuss.

Why Make This Recipe

Unique take on a classic: Cannoli Squares simplify the beloved dessert into bite-sized squares while maintaining the rich flavors of traditional cannoli.
Perfect for gatherings: They can easily be sliced into portions, making them ideal for sharing with friends and family at parties or holiday celebrations.
Effortlessly elegant: With minimal preparation and impressive presentation, these squares are a showstopper that don’t require professional baking skills to create.

This dessert will delight anyone looking to infuse a bit of Italian flair into their kitchen.

Simple Way to Prepare Classic Cannoli Squares

Creating these indulgent Cannoli Squares is a straightforward process that results in a deliciously rich dessert. While the steps may seem numerous, they each contribute to the tasty final result. Here’s how you’ll bring this delightful treat to life, step by step.

Ingredients

To make your Classic Cannoli Squares, you will need the following:

2 sheets puff pastry
2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, drained
1 cup mascarpone cheese (optional)
3/4 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Zest of 1 orange, plus extra for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Place the puff pastry sheets on the prepared baking sheets, and using a fork, prick the surface to prevent bubbling. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. Once done, set them aside to cool completely.
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese (if using), powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if desired), and orange zest. Beat these ingredients together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, mixing until they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.
To assemble, place one puff pastry sheet on a serving platter. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the surface. Top it with the second puff pastry sheet, pressing down gently to ensure it holds together.
Cover the assembled cannoli squares and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing. This chilling allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
When ready to serve, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with additional orange zest for a refreshing twist.

Storage Tips for Classic Cannoli Squares

To keep your Cannoli Squares fresh and delicious, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerate: Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days at 40°F, ensuring they don’t lose their delightful flavor and texture.
Freezing: If you’d like to enjoy them later, freeze the assembled squares (without icing sugar) for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then dust with powdered sugar and garnish before serving.
Keep them covered: It’s essential to cover the squares well, as exposure to air can cause the pastry to become stale.

How to Serve Classic Cannoli Squares

The presentation can elevate any dessert, and with Classic Cannoli Squares, you have ample opportunity for creativity. Consider these serving suggestions:

Individual Slices: Slice the squares into manageable portions and serve on decorative dessert plates, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
Garnished Delight: Top each slice with a few mini chocolate chips and a sprinkle of candied orange peel for added color and texture.
Accompanying Pairings: Serve alongside freshly brewed espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine to complement the flavors of the cannoli.
Seasonal Twists: In spring and summer, consider adding fresh berries or edible flowers for a touch of freshness and bursts of color.

Tips to Make Classic Cannoli Squares

Here are some handy tips and tricks to ensure your Cannoli Squares turn out perfect every time:

Use chilled ingredients when mixing the filling to maintain its creamy texture.
If you want to make the dessert ahead, prepare the filling separately and assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.
For a twist, try adding hazelnuts or pistachios for a nutty flavor that complements the sweet filling.
Don’t forget to let your squares chill long enough. The flavors deepen and the dessert sets for easier slicing.

Variations or Substitutions

While Classic Cannoli Squares are delicious as is, here are some variations or substitutions you can consider:

Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of mascarpone, a replacement with cream cheese can yield a pleasantly tangy twist to your filling.
Flavor Additions: Explore other flavors by adding lemon zest instead of orange for a refreshing citrus note or swapping the chocolate chips for finely chopped dried fruits like figs or raisins.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the squares a day in advance. Just remember to chill them before serving.

Q: Can I use different types of pastry?

A: While puff pastry is recommended for its lightness, you could experiment with shortcrust or phyllo pastry. Each type will alter the texture slightly, so choose based on your preference.

Q: How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?

A: Ensure your ricotta is well-drained before using. Also, chilling the assembled dessert for a couple of hours will help the pastry retain its crunch.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These delightful Cannoli Squares contain approximately:

Calories: 320
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugars: 15g
Fat: 20g

Please note that nutritional values might vary based on ingredient brands and specific recipes used.

What to Serve With Classic Cannoli Squares

Pairing your Cannoli Squares can greatly enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas:

Aromatic Coffee: Classic coffee lovers will appreciate a cup of freshly brewed Italian espresso or cappuccino alongside their squares.
Creamy Affogato: For a decadent dessert combo, pour hot espresso over a scoop of vanilla gelato for an enviable treat.
Italian Sweet Wines: Pair these squares with a glass of Vin Santo or Prosecco for a delightful evening of Italian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sometimes, even the simplest recipes can go awry. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

Under-bake the pastry: Ensure the pastry is fully cooked and golden brown so it can hold up the filling without becoming soggy.
Skipping the chilling step: Chilling is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld and the squares to set, meaning skipping this step can lead to a messy dessert.
Not draining the ricotta: Properly drain the ricotta cheese to avoid excess moisture that can soggy the pastry and dilute the filling flavor.

Now that you know all about Classic Cannoli Squares, why not give this delightful dessert a try? With its rich flavors, delightful texture, and potential for creative presentation, it’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience waiting to be shared. Whether you’re serving it for a family holiday or a casual gathering with friends, these squares will bring joy to every occasion.

With every bite, you’re not just tasting sweetness but also a piece of Italian heritage steeped in tradition. Happy baking!