Description
Classic Cannoli Squares are a delightful fusion of creamy ricotta filling and crispy pastry, creating a perfect balance of textures. Each bite offers a sweet, rich flavor with hints of vanilla and chocolate, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup white wine or vinegar
- For the Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese, drained
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg and wine (or vinegar) to the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into squares (about 3×3 inches).
- Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the pastry is baking, prepare the filling by mixing ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate chips in a bowl until smooth.
- Once the pastry is cool, fill each square with the ricotta mixture using a piping bag or spoon.
- Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with chopped pistachios before serving.
Notes
- Make-ahead: The pastry can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
- Storage: Keep filled cannoli squares in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Substitutions: Use mascarpone cheese for a richer filling or add orange zest for a citrus twist.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: desserts
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 2 oz)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15 grams
- Sodium: 150 milligrams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 5 grams
- Cholesterol: 30 milligrams
Keywords: Classic Cannoli Squares, Italian dessert, ricotta filling, crispy pastry, sweet treats, cannoli recipe, easy dessert, party desserts, homemade cannoli, dessert squares, creamy desserts, chocolate chips, festive treats