Classic Cannoli Squares: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe to Savor

Classic Cannoli Squares are a wonderful twist on the traditional Italian cannoli dessert. This delightful treat captures the rich flavors of the beloved cannoli filling, all nestled in a luscious square form that is easy to serve and enjoy. With creamy ricotta cheese, chocolate chips, and a hint of citrus, these squares are perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to special celebrations. Each bite offers a taste of Italy, making them an irresistible choice for dessert lovers everywhere.
If you’ve ever craved the rich, creamy filling of a cannoli but found the thought of frying pastry shells daunting, then Classic Cannoli Squares are the answer to your sweet tooth. These squares provide all the deliciousness of cannoli without the fuss of frying. The creamy filling is enveloped in a tender crust that melts in your mouth, leaving you wanting more. Furthermore, they are incredibly versatile—feel free to add your favorite toppings or serve them alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
In this article, we will explore why you’ll love this recipe, the preparation and cooking time, the essential ingredients, and step-by-step instructions for creating these incredible Classic Cannoli Squares. Get ready to indulge in a dessert that not only tastes amazing but is also straightforward to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Cannoli Squares bring together a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Here are some compelling reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
1. Quick and Easy – No frying required! These squares come together quickly, making them perfect for busy bakers.
2. Rich Flavor – The combination of ricotta cheese, chocolate chips, and citrus zest creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
3. Perfect for Sharing – The square shape makes them easy to cut and share, ideal for gatherings or parties.
4. Customizable – Feel free to add additional flavors or toppings, such as pistachios, orange zest, or a drizzle of chocolate.
5. Impressive Presentation – The layered look and dusting of powdered sugar make these squares visually appealing.
6. A Taste of Italy – Enjoy the authentic flavors of cannoli in a new, exciting format.
With these reasons in mind, it’s easy to see why Classic Cannoli Squares are a must-try for anyone who loves desserts.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making Classic Cannoli Squares is a straightforward process. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 1 hour
In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 50 minutes from start to finish. However, the cooling time can vary, so plan accordingly!

Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
– ½ cup mini chocolate chips
– Zest of 1 orange
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Classic Cannoli Squares is simple when you follow these easy steps:
1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Spread Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
7. Bake the Base: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Base: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, chocolate chips, and orange zest. Mix until smooth and creamy.
10. Spread Filling: Once the base is completely cool, spread the ricotta filling evenly over the top.
11. Chill: Place the squares in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set.
12. Cut and Serve: Once chilled, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
By following these steps, you’ll create delicious Classic Cannoli Squares that everyone will adore!

How to Serve

To make the most of your Classic Cannoli Squares, consider these serving suggestions:
1. Presentation: Serve on a beautiful platter and dust with powdered sugar for a stunning look.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of gelato for added indulgence.
3. Portion Size: Cut the squares into small, manageable pieces to encourage seconds without overwhelming your guests.
4. Beverage Pairing: Serve with strong coffee, espresso, or dessert wine to complement the flavors of the cannoli.
These serving tips will elevate your dessert experience, ensuring that your Classic Cannoli Squares are memorable for everyone who enjoys them!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ricotta cheese and high-quality chocolate chips will enhance the flavor of your Classic Cannoli Squares.
– Let the Filling Chill: Allowing the filling to chill for longer than an hour can result in a firmer texture, making it easier to cut into squares.
– Garnish Thoughtfully: Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an elegant touch.
– Experiment with Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm spice note to the filling for a unique flavor twist.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to customize your Classic Cannoli Squares with these fun variations:
1. Chocolate-Dipped Squares: After chilling and cutting, dip the edges of each square in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
2. Fruit-Infused Filling: Mix in finely chopped fruits like cherries or berries into the ricotta filling for a burst of flavor.
3. Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, into the filling for added texture.
4. Coffee Flavor: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the filling for a delightful coffee flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep your Classic Cannoli Squares covered in the refrigerator. They can last up to 5 days while retaining their flavor and texture.
– Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the squares. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment

To make your preparation easier and more efficient, consider using the following tools:
– Mixing Bowls: A variety of sizes for mixing the batter and filling.
– Electric Mixer: This will help achieve a light and fluffy texture when blending the butter and sugar.
– Baking Pan: A 9×9-inch pan is essential for the square shape of your dessert.
– Rubber Spatula: Useful for spreading the filling evenly over the baked base.
– Wire Rack: For cooling the squares after baking, ensuring they cool evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell when my squares are done baking?
Check for a golden brown color on the edges and insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your squares are ready.
Can I make Classic Cannoli Squares in advance?
Absolutely! These squares can be made a day ahead of time. Just ensure you refrigerate them to keep them fresh.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create gluten-free Classic Cannoli Squares.
Can I use store-bought ricotta cheese?
While homemade ricotta has a wonderful flavor, store-bought ricotta works perfectly for this recipe and will save you time.
What should I do if my filling is too runny?
If your ricotta filling is too runny, consider adding more powdered sugar or chilling it longer to help it firm up before spreading.

Conclusion

Classic Cannoli Squares are a delightful and convenient way to enjoy the beloved flavors of traditional cannoli. They are easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any gathering or special occasion. With their creamy filling and tender crust, these squares are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with variations, you will create a dessert that is not only delicious but also visually stunning.

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