Description
Some desserts are wrapped in tradition, passed down through generations like a cherished story whispered in flour-dusted kitchens. Classic Cannoli Squares bring the soul of the beloved Sicilian pastry into a simpler, sliceable form—easy to serve, easier to share, and bursting with that unmistakable cannoli flavor.
I first fell in love with cannoli during a summer trip to Palermo. The sweet ricotta filling, laced with orange zest and dotted with chocolate chips, tasted like the sun itself had kissed it. But making traditional cannoli shells from scratch? Not quite ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute celebrations. That’s when this baked version was born—classic cannoli taste, no frying required.
These squares are made with a buttery, crisp base, a creamy ricotta filling spiked with warm cinnamon and citrus, and a dusting of powdered sugar that melts in your mouth. Every bite captures the essence of the original pastry, but in a format that’s easy enough to whip up for potlucks, dinner parties, or a quiet night in.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon ice water (as needed)
- For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese, well-drained
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange (or lemon, if preferred)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg yolk and stir. If needed, add ice water 1 teaspoon at a time until dough holds together. - Press dough evenly into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan. Prick the crust with a fork to prevent puffing. Bake for 18–20 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling
While the crust cools, combine ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, citrus zest, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Stir in mini chocolate chips. - Step 3: Assemble the Squares
Spread the cannoli filling evenly over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set. - Step 4: Slice and Serve
Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar. Slice into neat squares and garnish with extra mini chips or orange zest if desired.
Notes
To make these Classic Cannoli Squares ahead of time, prepare and assemble them the night before. The flavors deepen overnight, and the texture holds beautifully.
Nutrition
- Calories: 240