Introduction
Cannoli is one of the most loved Italian desserts. Traditionally, cannoli are crispy pastry shells filled with a creamy sweet ricotta filling. They are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just when you want a sweet treat at home. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker. With a few easy steps, you’ll have creamy, crunchy, and irresistible cannoli squares ready to impress everyone.
Ingredients – Classic Cannoli Squares
Before we start, let’s look at what you’ll need. Most of these ingredients are common and easy to find in any grocery store.
For the Pastry Layers:
- 1 package of puff pastry sheets (thawed)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Cream Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (well drained)
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese (adds richness, but you can use more ricotta if you prefer)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Extra chocolate chips or chopped pistachios (for topping)
Step by Step Process – Classic Cannoli Squares
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Sheets
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut them into even squares, about 2×2 inches in size.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle lightly with sugar and cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Let them cool completely before assembling.
Step 2: Make the Cream Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese.
- Use a hand mixer (or whisk) to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix again.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips with a spatula.
- Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set.
Step 3: Assemble the Cannoli Squares
- Take one baked puff pastry square and spread or pipe some of the cream filling on top.
- Place another pastry square on top, making a “sandwich.”
- Repeat with layers if you want taller squares.
- Once assembled, dust the tops with powdered sugar.
- Sprinkle with extra chocolate chips or pistachios for decoration.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
- For best results, let the assembled squares chill in the fridge for 1 hour.
- This helps the flavors set and makes the dessert easier to slice and serve.
And that’s it! You now have simple, classic cannoli squares that look elegant and taste just like the traditional Italian treat.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per square) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make cannoli squares ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the pastry sheets and prepare the cream filling a day ahead. Just keep them stored separately and assemble before serving so the pastry stays crisp.
Q2: Do I have to use mascarpone cheese?
No, it’s optional. Mascarpone gives a richer, creamier taste, but if you don’t have it, just use all ricotta cheese.
Q3: Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
Yes, but mini chocolate chips work better because they mix more evenly into the cream and give a classic cannoli texture.
Q4: How do I keep the ricotta from being watery?
Drain the ricotta really well before using. You can place it in a cheesecloth or fine strainer for a few hours to remove extra liquid.
Q5: Can I freeze cannoli squares?
It’s not recommended. The pastry can lose its crispness and the cream filling may separate after thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.
Final Thoughts
Cannoli squares are proof that you don’t need fancy tools or hours of work to enjoy a delicious Italian dessert. With flaky puff pastry and a smooth ricotta filling, this recipe captures all the magic of traditional cannoli but in a much simpler form.
They’re elegant enough for a dinner party, yet easy enough to make on a weekday. Plus, you can play around with toppings—try dusting with cocoa powder, adding crushed pistachios, or even drizzling with chocolate sauce.
So next time you crave something sweet, skip the bakery line and make these Simple Classic Cannoli Squares at home. Your taste buds—and anyone you share them with—will thank you.
