Classic Cannoli Squares
Classic Italian-inspired dessert bars with a crisp pastry crust, creamy ricotta filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar—bringing the flavors of traditional cannoli into easy-to-serve squares.
- Author: ssam
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins + chilling
- Yield: 12 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust (or homemade)
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, drained
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Roll out pie crust and fit it into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, trimming edges if necessary.
- 3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and orange zest until smooth.
- 4. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- 5. Spread filling evenly over prepared crust.
- 6. Roll out another crust layer (or lattice strips) and place on top, sealing edges.
- 7. Brush top with beaten egg.
- 8. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and set.
- 9. Cool completely, then refrigerate for 2 hours before slicing into squares.
- 10. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain ricotta well to prevent a watery filling.
- Can be made a day ahead—store covered in the refrigerator.
- Try pistachio or candied fruit toppings for a traditional touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Classic Cannoli Squares, Italian dessert, ricotta bars