If you love the creamy, sweet flavors of traditional cannoli but want a simpler, fuss-free version, these Classic Cannoli Squares are your perfect solution. Imagine a flaky golden crust encasing a luscious ricotta filling, dotted with mini chocolate chips, and lightly sweetened with cinnamon and vanilla. Every bite delivers the richness of a cannoli shell with the convenience of a dessert bar, making it ideal for easy dessert recipes or family comfort food.

These squares are a crowd-pleaser for parties, potlucks, or a sweet treat after dinner. They offer the same indulgent flavors of classic Italian cannoli without the extra effort of piping into individual shells. Perfect for quick weeknight desserts or an affordable baking recipe, they combine convenience and elegance in one decadent treat. Whether you’re serving them to family or impressing guests, these squares are bound to become a regular in your dessert rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Preparation: Uses pre-made pie crusts to save time while still achieving bakery-quality results.
Rich and Creamy Filling: Ricotta cheese and chocolate chips create indulgent, smooth, and flavorful bites.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a special family dessert night.
Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, yet delivers an impressive flavor profile.
Customizable: Easily add nuts, extra chocolate, or dried fruit for personalized variations.
Beginner-Friendly: No special piping or advanced techniques needed—ideal for easy dessert ideas for beginners.

Ingredient Breakdown

For the Filling

Ricotta Cheese (2 cups): Provides a creamy, smooth base for the filling. Using whole-milk ricotta adds richness and velvety texture.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the ricotta filling without graininess. Coconut sugar is a healthier alternative for health-conscious baking.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances flavor, adding warmth and depth. Opt for pure vanilla for the best aroma.
Cinnamon (½ tsp): Adds subtle spice; optional if you prefer classic cannoli flavor.
Mini Chocolate Chips (½ cup): Introduce bursts of chocolate throughout the creamy filling, enhancing texture and flavor.

For the Crust

Pre-Made Pie Crusts (2): Provide a buttery, flaky foundation and top layer. Homemade crust works beautifully as well for extra richness.
Egg (1, for egg wash): Gives the top crust a glossy golden finish for a professional look.
Sugar (for sprinkling): Adds sweetness and a slight crunch to the baked top layer.

Optional Garnishes

Chopped Pistachios (¼ cup): Adds color, crunch, and nutty flavor.
Maraschino Cherries (3 pieces): For visual appeal and a pop of sweetness.
Extra Chocolate Chips (¼ cup): Perfect for chocolate lovers who want more chocolatey bites.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cannoli Squares

Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is at 375°F (190°C) before baking for even cooking and a flaky, golden crust.
Mix Filling Smoothly: Whisk ricotta, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth to avoid grainy texture.
Seal the Edges Well: Press the top crust firmly along the edges to prevent filling leakage during baking.
Chill Before Slicing: Allow the squares to cool for at least 30 minutes; this helps them set and slice neatly.
Optional Toasting: Lightly toast pistachios before garnishing to boost nutty flavor and aroma.

Ingredient Swaps or Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust or homemade crust with gluten-free flour for gluten-free dessert recipes.
Low-Sugar Variation: Substitute powdered sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a low-carb dessert alternative.
Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based ricotta or almond-based cream cheese and vegan pie crust for a dairy-free treat.
Extra Chocolate Twist: Mix in dark chocolate chunks or drizzle melted chocolate on top for chocolate dessert lovers.
Nutty Upgrade: Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds to the filling for extra texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Family Dessert Night: Serve with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy, indulgent treat.
Party Presentation: Cut into bite-sized squares for easy serving at potlucks or gatherings.
Garnish with Color: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or cherries on top for a festive appearance.
Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside berries for a fresh contrast to the rich filling.
Elegant Plating: Drizzle chocolate or dust with powdered sugar before serving to impress guests.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Prepare in Advance: Mix the filling a day before to save time on baking day. Store covered in the fridge.
Bake When Ready: Assemble the crust and filling and bake just before serving for best texture.
Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked squares (assembled in the dish) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Leftover Hacks: Crumble cooled squares over ice cream or yogurt for a quick dessert meal prep idea.

Cultural and Historical Notes

Cannoli are a traditional Italian dessert originating from Sicily, usually enjoyed as individual pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta. This Classic Cannoli Squares recipe modernizes the concept by transforming individual cannoli into an easy-to-make, sliceable dessert. It retains the authentic flavors—ricotta, vanilla, chocolate, and subtle spice—while simplifying preparation for busy families or those seeking quick dessert ideas without compromising on taste. This adaptation is perfect for holidays, casual get-togethers, or everyday indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The filling can be prepared the day before and stored in the fridge. Assemble and bake the squares when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow squares to cool completely before covering to maintain crisp edges.

Can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce sugar, use whole milk ricotta, or swap coconut sugar for powdered sugar. Opt for dark chocolate for extra antioxidants.

What substitutions can I use for allergies or dietary preferences?
Use gluten-free pie crust for a gluten-free version, plant-based ricotta for a dairy-free option, and omit nuts if allergic.

Can I make individual servings instead of a square?
Yes! Use mini tart pans or muffin tins with crust and filling for single-serving cannoli-inspired bites.

Emily