Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, these squares are perfect for when you need a delicious dessert in a pinch.
- Classic Flavors: The creamy ricotta filling, hints of cinnamon, and orange zest bring a taste of Italy to your table.
- Customizable: Garnish with crushed pistachios, extra chocolate chips, or a drizzle of chocolate for a personal touch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, this recipe is great for parties, gatherings, or family dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cannoli Squares:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought)
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
- Crushed pistachios (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares (about 3-4 inches each).
- Place the puff pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to lightly prick the center of each square to prevent over-puffing during baking.
- Brush the edges of the pastry squares with an egg wash (whisk together the egg and a splash of water) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- While the pastry is baking, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and orange zest. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Once the puff pastry squares have cooled, spoon the ricotta mixture into the center of each square.
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top of the filling and garnish with crushed pistachios, if desired.
- Dust the filled cannoli squares with powdered sugar before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 squares
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 200 kcal per serving
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the pistachios and opt for extra chocolate chips or fresh berries.
- Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the filled squares for an indulgent treat.
- Citrus Twist: Add lemon zest instead of orange for a refreshing variation.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the filling for extra warmth.
- Savory Option: Replace the sweet filling with a savory ricotta mixture and garnish with herbs for a unique appetizer.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: These squares are best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Yes, homemade puff pastry works wonderfully, though it adds to the prep time.
2. Can I make the filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
3. Can I freeze the filled squares?
It’s best to freeze only the baked puff pastry. Fill them after thawing and reheating.
4. Can I replace mascarpone with cream cheese?
Yes, cream cheese can be a substitute, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
5. Is there a low-sugar option?
Use a sugar substitute like powdered erythritol for a lower-sugar version.
6. Can I add nuts to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds can be mixed into the filling for extra texture.
7. What other garnishes work well?
Try fresh berries, shaved chocolate, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
8. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-free version.
9. What can I pair these with?
Serve with espresso, cappuccino, or a sweet dessert wine for a classic Italian pairing.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches as needed.
Conclusion
Ricotta Cannoli Squares are an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that offers the rich flavors of a traditional Italian treat in a modern, convenient format. Whether you’re serving them at a party or indulging in a special family dessert, these squares are guaranteed to impress with their creamy filling, flaky pastry, and customizable toppings. Give them a try and enjoy a bite of Italy at home!
Mouthwatering Ricotta Cannoli Squares
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Ricotta Cannoli Squares are a quick and delicious twist on the classic Italian dessert. Featuring a creamy ricotta and mascarpone filling, flaky puff pastry, and toppings of chocolate chips and pistachios, this dessert is perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cannoli Squares:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought)
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
- Crushed pistachios (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into squares (about 3–4 inches each).
- Place pastry squares on the baking sheet. Prick the centers with a fork to prevent over-puffing.
- Brush edges with egg wash (egg + splash of water) and bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the pastry bakes, mix ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and orange zest until smooth.
- Once cooled, spoon ricotta mixture onto the center of each square.
- Top with mini chocolate chips and optional pistachios. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator.
- Serving Tip: Pair with espresso or cappuccino for a classic Italian experience.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
