If you love the rich, creamy flavor of traditional Italian cannoli but want a simpler, more approachable dessert, Classic Cannoli Squares are the perfect solution. This easy homemade dessert captures everything people love about cannoli—the lightly sweet ricotta filling, hints of vanilla and cinnamon, and bursts of chocolate—layered between flaky, golden pie crusts and baked into sliceable squares. The result is a bakery-style treat that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make.
Classic Cannoli Squares are ideal for holidays, family gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing dessert without rolling shells or dealing with piping bags. Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe delivers authentic cannoli flavor in an easy recipe format that even beginner bakers can master. Each bite is creamy, lightly sweet, and perfectly balanced with crisp pastry, making it a true family favorite dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beginner-friendly with simple assembly
No-fail recipe using store-bought pie crusts
Quick dessert with minimal prep time
Budget-friendly Italian-inspired baking
Crowd-pleaser for holidays and parties
Family-approved flavors everyone enjoys
About the Ingredients
These Classic Cannoli Squares rely on traditional cannoli flavors paired with simple baking ingredients to keep the recipe approachable.
Ricotta cheese – The heart of the filling. Whole milk ricotta creates a creamy, authentic cannoli texture.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling smoothly without grit. Coconut sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and enhances the ricotta’s mild sweetness.
Cinnamon (optional) – A classic cannoli touch that adds subtle spice.
Mini chocolate chips – Distribute evenly through the filling for chocolate in every bite.
Pre-made pie crusts – Provide flaky layers without complicated dough prep.
Egg wash – Helps the top crust bake up golden and glossy.
Sugar for sprinkling – Adds a light crunch and bakery-style finish.
Optional garnishes – Pistachios, cherries, and extra chocolate chips elevate presentation.
These best baking ingredients keep the dessert authentic while remaining accessible and affordable.
Tips & Tricks
Drain ricotta well if it seems watery
Use mini chocolate chips for even distribution
Press crust edges firmly to seal the filling
Allow full cooling before slicing for clean squares
Chill briefly before serving for firmer texture
These baking tips and easy kitchen hacks help ensure dessert success every time.
Pro Tips
Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest filling
Whisk the filling until smooth to avoid lumps
Lightly score the top crust before baking for even expansion
Sprinkle sugar generously for a crisp, caramelized top
Garnish just before serving for best appearance
Step-by-Step Instructions
This easy step-by-step recipe makes preparation simple and stress-free.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and mini chocolate chips. Whisk until smooth.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Unroll one pie crust and fit it into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
Spread ricotta mixture evenly over the crust.
Place the second crust on top and press edges to seal.
Brush top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes.
Cut into squares and garnish with pistachios, cherries, or extra chocolate chips if desired.
These simple cooking instructions ensure perfect dessert preparation every time.
Variations
These Classic Cannoli Squares are easy to customize with creative twists.
Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pie crusts
Chocolate cannoli squares – Add cocoa powder to the ricotta filling
Orange zest twist – Add orange zest for classic Italian flavor
Healthier alternative – Use reduced-sugar sweetener and part-skim ricotta
Nut-free version – Skip pistachios and use only chocolate garnish
These recipe variations make this dessert one of the most customizable desserts for any occasion.
How to Store Classic Cannoli Squares
Proper storage keeps these squares fresh and creamy.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze individual squares for up to 2 months
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving
Make-ahead dessert – Bake a day early and garnish before serving
These dessert storage tips make Classic Cannoli Squares ideal for entertaining and planning ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Classic Cannoli Squares ahead of time?
Yes. They taste even better once chilled, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Can I make this dessert healthier?
Use reduced-sugar sweeteners and part-skim ricotta for a lighter option.
What substitutions can I use?
You can substitute mascarpone for part of the ricotta or use dairy-free alternatives.
Are Classic Cannoli Squares good for parties?
Absolutely. They’re a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to slice and serve.
Classic Cannoli Squares
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Whisk until smooth.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll one pie crust and fit it into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the crust.
- Place the second crust on top, seal edges, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
- Garnish with pistachios, cherries, or extra chocolate chips if desired.
