Classic Cannoli Squares: 5 Delicious Ways to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Are you tired of complicated dessert recipes that never turn out quite right? Classic Cannoli Squares are the answer to your sweet tooth prayers! These delightful treats deliver all the creamy, crunchy goodness of traditional cannolis but in an easy-to-make, shareable format that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Hi there! I’m Michael, the heart behind FoodyDish, and I’m excited to share one of my absolute favorite dessert hacks. As someone who’s been perfecting Italian-inspired desserts for years, I’ve found that these Cannoli Squares strike the perfect balance between authentic flavor and modern convenience.

In this recipe guide, I’ll walk you through everything from selecting the perfect ricotta cheese to creating five unique flavor variations that will impress at any gathering. You’ll discover pro tips for achieving that perfect texture, easy make-ahead options, and creative serving suggestions that elevate these squares from simple treats to showstopping desserts.

Why These Classic Cannoli Squares Work

• Uses simple, accessible ingredients you might already have in your pantry
• Requires no special equipment or challenging techniques
• Perfect for both weeknight treats or elegant dinner party desserts
• Offers the authentic cannoli flavor without the fuss of filling individual shells
• Can be prepared ahead of time for stress-free entertaining

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Classic Cannoli Squares

The Perfect Cheese Base

The foundation of outstanding Cannoli Squares is high-quality ricotta cheese. Look for whole milk ricotta that’s thick and creamy rather than watery. For best results, drain your ricotta in a cheesecloth-lined strainer for at least 2 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator) to remove excess moisture.

The Cookie Layer Options

Traditional cannoli shells are reimagined as a cookie crust in this recipe. You can choose between:
• Crushed graham crackers for a sweeter, more accessible option
• Crushed vanilla wafers for a lighter flavor profile
• Italian ladyfingers for an authentic touch

Quality Additions

For authentic cannoli flavor, consider these essential add-ins:
• Mini chocolate chips (semi-sweet works best)
• High-quality vanilla extract (avoid imitation)
• Fresh citrus zest (orange or lemon)
• Ground cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon offers a more delicate flavor)

Ingredients & Prep for Classic Cannoli Squares

Base Recipe Essentials:

• 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, drained
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Crust Preparation:

• Crush graham crackers until fine
• Mix with melted butter and granulated sugar
• Press firmly into a 9×9 baking dish
• Bake at 350°F for 8 minutes until set

Filling Preparation:

• Beat drained ricotta until smooth
• Gradually incorporate powdered sugar
• Fold in remaining ingredients by hand
• Spread evenly over cooled crust

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Classic Cannoli Squares

Pre-Cooking Prep for Cannoli Squares

1. Line your baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on sides for easy removal
2. Drain ricotta cheese at least 2 hours before beginning (this prevents a soggy dessert)
3. Bring cream cheese to room temperature if using in your variation
4. Measure and organize all ingredients before starting

Baking Method for Perfect Cannoli Squares

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Bake the crust for 8 minutes until lightly golden
3. Allow crust to cool completely before adding filling
4. For no-bake versions, refrigerate assembled squares for at least 4 hours

Setting Check for Cannoli Squares

The filling should be firm to the touch but still have a slight give when pressed. If the center jiggles when gently shaken, it needs more time in the refrigerator.

Cutting and Serving Your Cannoli Squares

1. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water between cuts
2. Wipe the blade clean between each slice for presentation-worthy squares
3. For best flavor, remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving

Pro Tips for Perfect Classic Cannoli Squares

Avoiding Common Texture Problems

• Prevent soggy squares by thoroughly draining ricotta cheese
• Achieve the perfect crust-to-filling ratio by pressing crust mixture firmly into pan
• Create clean cuts by chilling completely before slicing

Tool Recommendations

• Food processor makes quick work of crushing graham crackers
• Offset spatula creates the smoothest filling surface
• Parchment paper sling ensures easy removal from the pan

Storage & Make-Ahead Options

• Refrigerate for up to 3 days covered tightly
• Freeze cut squares individually for up to 1 month
• Thaw in refrigerator overnight for best texture

Looking for more delicious dessert ideas? Check out my collection of sweet treats on Pinterest where I share new recipe inspiration daily!

Flavor Variations for Classic Cannoli Squares

Chocolate Lover’s Cannoli Squares

• Add ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the filling
• Increase powdered sugar to 1¼ cups to balance cocoa bitterness
• Drizzle with melted chocolate before serving

Pistachio Cannoli Squares

• Fold ½ cup finely chopped pistachios into the filling
• Add ¼ teaspoon almond extract for enhanced flavor
• Garnish with additional crushed pistachios on top

Berry-Infused Cannoli Squares

• Fold 1 cup of fresh berries (raspberries or strawberries) into filling
• Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for brightness
• Reduce ricotta by ¼ cup to account for moisture from berries

Tiramisu-Inspired Cannoli Squares

• Add 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder to filling
• Use ladyfingers instead of graham crackers for the crust
• Dust generously with cocoa powder before serving

Coconut Cream Cannoli Squares

• Replace ¼ cup of powdered sugar with coconut cream
• Add ½ cup toasted coconut flakes to filling
• Use coconut oil instead of butter in the crust for enhanced flavor

Serving Suggestions for Classic Cannoli Squares

• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for that bakery-fresh look
• Garnish with additional chocolate chips, nuts, or candied orange peel
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant presentation
• Pair with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat
• For a festive touch, add a scoop of vanilla gelato on the side
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce, caramel, or honey for extra indulgence

FAQs About Classic Cannoli Squares

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

While ricotta is traditional for authentic cannoli flavor, you can substitute with cottage cheese that’s been processed until smooth. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Why is my filling runny?

This typically happens when the ricotta isn’t drained properly. Make sure to drain it thoroughly, and consider adding 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch to help stabilize the filling.

Can I make these squares gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the graham cracker crust with gluten-free cookies or a mixture of almond flour, butter, and a little sugar.

How far in advance can I make these?

These squares are perfect for make-ahead desserts! You can prepare them up to 3 days before serving if stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze leftover cannoli squares?

Yes! Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Conclusion

These Classic Cannoli Squares transform the beloved Italian dessert into a convenient, shareable treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With five delicious variations to choose from, you’ll never tire of this versatile recipe that combines the rich, creamy filling and satisfying crunch that makes cannoli so irresistible.

Give this recipe a try this weekend I’d love to hear which variation becomes your favorite! Join the thousands of home bakers who have made these squares a regular in their dessert rotation.

Don’t forget to check out my other Italian-inspired desserts on FoodyDish.com. From tiramisu to panna cotta, there’s a sweet treat waiting for everyone at your table!

Classic Cannoli Squares: 5 Delicious Ways to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

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• Author: Michael
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Yield: 9 squares 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

All the flavor of traditional Italian cannoli in an easy layered dessert! These Classic Cannoli Squares feature crisp pastry layers, creamy ricotta filling, mini chocolate chips, and a dusting of powdered sugar no frying required.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 sheets puff pastry, thawed

2 cups ricotta cheese (drained)

1 cup mascarpone cheese

3/4 cup powdered sugar (plus more for topping)

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)

1 egg (for egg wash)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Place puff pastry sheets on the prepared sheets and prick all over with a fork.

3. Brush lightly with egg wash and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.

4. Cool completely, then carefully split each pastry sheet in half horizontally to create four layers total.

5. In a large bowl, beat ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.

6. Fold in mini chocolate chips.

7. Place one pastry layer on a serving platter and spread with half of the filling.

8. Top with another pastry layer, spread remaining filling, and finish with the final pastry layer.

9. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

10. Dust generously with powdered sugar and sprinkle with pistachios before slicing into squares.

Notes

For a lighter texture, whip the filling with an electric mixer for extra fluffiness.

Make ahead and chill overnight for easy serving.

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: cannoli dessert, puff pastry cannoli, ricotta mascarpone dessert, no fry cannoli squares