Cannoli Squares: Delicious 1-Hour Dessert

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Cannoli Squares have a special place in my heart, bringing the magic of traditional Sicilian pastries right into my own kitchen. I remember the first time I tasted a real cannoli – that crisp shell, the sweet, creamy filling bursting with chocolate chips – it was pure bliss! Now, I can recreate that joy easily with this fantastic cannoli squares recipe. These delightful dessert squares capture all the iconic flavors and textures you love, but in a much simpler, shareable format. Forget the hassle of rolling shells; this version uses convenient puff pastry for a wonderfully flaky base and top. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s both elegant and incredibly easy, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cannoli Squares Recipe

You’re going to adore these easy cannoli squares for so many reasons! They’re the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the classic cannoli flavor without all the fuss.

Effortless preparation: Thanks to pre-made puff pastry, these are incredibly quick to assemble.
Crowd-pleasing: This cannoli square dessert is a guaranteed hit at parties and gatherings.
Deliciously creamy filling: The ricotta mixture is rich, sweet, and perfectly complements the flaky pastry.
Quick to assemble: You can have these ready for the oven in under 30 minutes.
Versatile: Easily customize the filling and toppings to your liking.
Visually stunning: They look impressive, making them perfect for special occasions.
No-bake convenience (almost!): While one layer is baked, the filling process is no-bake, simplifying things immensely.
A taste of tradition: Enjoy the authentic flavors of a cannoli in a convenient bar form.

Ingredients for Your Homemade Cannoli Squares

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating your delicious cannoli squares recipe. The beauty of this dessert square is how simple the components are, yet how decadent they taste together. Using good quality ingredients makes all the difference!

2 sheets puff pastry, thawed – this is our flaky base and top, offering a wonderful contrast to the creamy filling.
1 egg, beaten – this acts as an egg wash to give the top pastry a beautiful golden sheen.
Powdered sugar, for dusting – a light dusting adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal before baking.
2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, well-drained – the star of our cannoli filling! Make sure it’s very well-drained to avoid a watery dessert.
3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted – this sweetens our creamy filling perfectly. Sifting ensures no lumps.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – essential for that classic cannoli flavor.
1/2 teaspoon orange or lemon zest (optional) – a little citrus zest really brightens the filling and adds a lovely floral note.
3/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips – these little bursts of chocolate are a signature of cannoli.
2 tablespoons chopped pistachios (optional) – for a pop of color and nutty crunch.
Extra chocolate chips (optional) – for garnish.
Extra powdered sugar, for final dusting (optional) – for that final elegant finish.

How to Make Easy Cannoli Squares

Let’s get started on these delightful cannoli squares! This recipe is designed to be straightforward, bringing the classic cannoli experience home without the fuss of traditional shells. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create this stunning dessert.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your puff pastry won’t stick.
Step 2: Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheets. If they seem a bit thick, you can gently roll them out just enough to fit your baking sheet. Place one sheet down on the parchment paper.
Step 3: Bake this first puff pastry layer for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s beautifully puffed up and a lovely golden brown. The aroma of toasting pastry is the first hint of the deliciousness to come! Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 4: While that pastry cools, it’s time to whip up the luscious cannoli filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the well-drained ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup sifted powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the optional citrus zest. Mix everything together until it’s wonderfully smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips.
Step 5: Once your baked puff pastry is totally cool, spread that dreamy cannoli filling evenly over the entire surface. Leave a small border around the edges so the filling doesn’t ooze out too much when you bake the second layer.
Step 6: Carefully place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the filling. Now, brush the top pastry lightly with your beaten egg wash and give it a dusting of powdered sugar for that extra pretty finish.
Step 7: Bake the assembled cannoli squares for another 12-15 minutes. Watch for the top pastry layer to turn a gorgeous golden brown and puff up nicely.
Step 8: Take the pan out of the oven and let these beauties cool completely on a wire rack. Patience here is key for the best results.
Step 9: After cooling, give the top another dusting of powdered sugar. If you’re using them, sprinkle on the chopped pistachios or extra chocolate chips for that final touch.
Step 10: Using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, carefully slice the dessert into squares. For the cleanest cuts, especially with the flaky pastry, chill your cannoli square dessert in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing. This helps the filling set up perfectly.

Pro Tips for the Best Cannoli Squares

Want to elevate your cannoli squares recipe from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. Following these simple tips will help you create the most delicious and impressive dessert squares.

Drain that ricotta! Seriously, this is the most crucial step for preventing a soggy bottom and ensuring a creamy, rich filling. I like to drain mine overnight in a cheesecloth-lined sieve placed over a bowl in the fridge. For more on proper cheese draining techniques, check out this guide to draining ricotta.
Chill before slicing: For those perfectly neat squares, chilling is your best friend. It allows the filling to firm up, making it so much easier to get clean cuts without squishing.
Handle puff pastry with care: Keep your puff pastry cold until you’re ready to work with it. This helps it puff up beautifully in the oven, creating those lovely flaky layers that are key to this dessert square.

What’s the secret to perfect Cannoli Squares?

The absolute secret is ensuring your ricotta cheese is extremely well-drained. This prevents a watery filling and guarantees a thick, luscious texture that mimics the authentic cannoli cream. It’s the foundation of a truly great cannoli square dessert.

Can I make Cannoli Squares ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the filling and have the puff pastry baked and cooled a day in advance. Assemble them a few hours before serving, or even the night before if you chill them thoroughly before slicing. They store well in the fridge. For more make-ahead dessert ideas, explore our recipes section.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cannoli Squares?

The biggest pitfall is not draining the ricotta enough, leading to a messy, runny filling. Also, be sure to let the baked pastry cool completely before adding the filling, otherwise, it can become soggy. Finally, don’t skip the chilling step before slicing for clean cuts.

Best Ways to Serve Your Cannoli Square Dessert

Serving these delightful cannoli squares is almost as fun as making them! Their elegant appearance and classic flavors make them perfect for any occasion. For a truly special dessert spread, consider serving them alongside fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries. The tartness of the fruit provides a lovely contrast to the sweet, creamy filling. They also pair wonderfully with a rich espresso or a creamy cappuccino, making them an ideal finish to an Italian-inspired meal. These sweet cannoli squares are also fantastic for parties; simply arrange them on a tiered stand for a beautiful presentation.

Nutrition Facts for Cannoli Squares

These sweet cannoli squares are a delightful treat. When enjoying this cannoli square dessert, keep these approximate nutritional values in mind per serving (which we estimate to be one square).

Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal
Fat: Approximately 18-22g
Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-12g
Protein: Approximately 6-8g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
Sugar: Approximately 20-25g
Sodium: Approximately 150-200mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you opt for variations like chocolate cannoli squares or use different brands.

How to Store and Reheat Cannoli Squares

Properly storing your delicious cannoli squares ensures they stay fresh and delightful for your next indulgence. Once your cannoli layer bars have completely cooled to room temperature, it’s time to think about storage. For the best results, place them in an airtight container. If you plan to enjoy them within a few days, the refrigerator is your best bet. They’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days this way.

Thinking ahead for future cravings? These sweet cannoli squares also freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer the frozen squares to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. If you prefer them cold, you can serve them directly after thawing. For a slightly warmer, softer treat, you can gently reheat them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes, but be careful not to overheat them, as this can make the puff pastry soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cannoli Squares

What are cannoli squares, exactly?

Cannoli squares are a delightful dessert that captures the essence of traditional Sicilian cannoli but in a much easier, bar form. Instead of filling individual pastry shells, we layer creamy cannoli filling between sheets of flaky puff pastry. They offer all the iconic flavors – sweet ricotta, chocolate chips, and that hint of vanilla – in a convenient, sliceable dessert square, making them perfect for parties or any sweet craving. For more dessert inspiration, check out these smores cookie bars.

Can I make these no-bake cannoli squares entirely without baking?

While this specific cannoli squares recipe uses puff pastry that requires baking for that perfect flaky texture, the filling itself is no-bake. If you’re looking for a true no-bake version, you could consider using a crushed cookie crust (like shortbread or graham crackers) as the base and topping, similar to a cheesecake, and then chilling it until firm. However, the baked puff pastry adds a wonderful contrast that many people love in their cannoli layer bars.

How do I get the best cannoli square dessert results?

For the best cannoli square dessert, make sure your ricotta cheese is extremely well-drained – this is key to a thick, creamy filling. Also, chilling the assembled squares for at least an hour before slicing is crucial for clean cuts and a firm set. Don’t skip the cooling process after baking, as warm pastry can lead to a messier slice. If you’re interested in other baking tips, you might find our orange zucchini bread recipe helpful.

Are there any cannoli square variations I can try?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt these homemade cannoli squares. Try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the filling for chocolate cannoli squares, or swap the mini chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips. For a fruity twist, fold in some finely chopped candied orange peel. You could also experiment with different nuts like almonds or pecans in place of pistachios for added flavor and texture in your dessert squares with cannoli filling.

Variations of Cannoli Squares You Can Try

Ready to get creative with your cannoli squares recipe? While the classic is divine, there are so many fun cannoli square variations you can explore to suit different tastes and dietary needs. These ideas offer fantastic cannoli square inspiration for your next baking adventure.

Chocolate Lover’s Dream: For decadent chocolate cannoli squares, fold 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder into the ricotta filling along with the chocolate chips. You could even drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving for an extra indulgence.
Fruity Twist: Brighten up your dessert squares with a touch of fruit! Gently fold in 1/4 cup of finely chopped candied orange peel or a handful of fresh raspberries into the filling. This adds a wonderful tanginess that complements the sweet cream beautifully.
Nutty Delight: Swap out the pistachios for other chopped nuts like toasted almonds or pecans for a different flavor profile. You could even mix a tablespoon of almond extract into the filling for an amped-up nutty taste in your cannoli layer bars.
Mini Cannoli Squares: If you’re making these for a party, consider using mini muffin tins and puff pastry cut to fit. This creates adorable mini cannoli squares that are perfect for bite-sized treats.