Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares

Name: Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry sheets (thawed); 2 cups ricotta cheese (well-drained); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Optional: confectioner’s sugar and chopped pistachios for garnish

December 27, 2025 by Mae

Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares with creamy filling and crispy shell

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A Slice of Bliss: Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares

There’s something truly magical about the gentle rise of a soft golden pastry, cradling a luscious filling that sings of sweet nostalgia. Enter the world of Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares, a delightful twist on the traditional Sicilian dessert that captures all the creaminess and richness of the iconic cannoli but in a form that feels both comforting and celebratory. Picture this: a cozy afternoon gathering with loved ones, the aroma of freshly baked pastry wafting through the rooms, igniting sweetness in every corner. These delightful treats make for the perfect addition to any festive occasion or a special weeknight dessert that will charm your family and friends alike.

Imagine serving these squares at a family reunion, where laughter mixes with the sounds of forks clinking against plates, or at a weekend brunch, where every bite brings people together, sharing smiles and stories over delicious pastries. The light crunch of the golden crust gives way to a velvety filling, each square offering a delightful surprise of flavors that brings warmth to the heart. Whether it’s drizzled with a touch of chocolate or garnished with bright green pistachios, these Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares evoke a feeling of joy, making every moment spent with them unforgettable.

Let’s embark on this delightful culinary journey together, crafting these sweet treats that promise to elevate any table with elegance and charm.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the blissful creation of these Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares, let’s gather our ingredients and tools. Simple yet elegant, each component plays a vital role in crafting this dessert.

Ingredients

1 package puff pastry sheets (thawed)
2 cups ricotta cheese (well-drained)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional: confectioner’s sugar and chopped pistachios for garnish

Tools

Prepare your kitchen for some delightful baking! You’ll need the following tools:

A mixing bowl
A whisk or electric mixer
A rolling pin
A baking dish or tray
Parchment paper
A fork for sealing the pastry

How to Make It

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on these enticing Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the rewarding experience of creating something truly special.

Preheat the Oven

To begin, let’s bring warmth to our kitchen by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). The anticipation of the warm air filling the space is the perfect prelude to the delight that lies ahead.

Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Once the oven is set, sprinkle a little flour on your countertop and unveil the thawed puff pastry sheets. Gently roll it out until it reaches about ¼ inch thick, feeling the softness beneath your rolling pin. As you create a smooth surface, let your mind wander with the possibilities that await. Next, grab a sharp knife or pastry cutter and slice the dough into 3×3 inch squares, each piece a promise of deliciousness yet to come.

Create the Heavenly Filling

Now for the centerpiece of our creation: the filling! In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. As you mix, relish the way the creamy ricotta comes together, transforming into a silky-smooth blend that feels luxurious to the touch. Add in the mini chocolate chips, vibrant orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon, stirring until well combined. The chocolate chips will lend a delightful surprise, while the orange zest brightens the flavor with its zesty fragrance. This filling is truly a labor of love, showing how simple ingredients can create magic.

Assemble the Squares

Place one tablespoon of this heavenly filling onto the center of each pastry square. As you fold them over to form triangles, you’ll hear the faint sound of pastry crinkling; it’s music to the ears! Use the tines of a fork to seal the edges, ensuring no filling escapes during baking. Each triangle you create is like sealing in a treasured memory, ready to be shared.

Bake to Perfection

Arrange your cherished triangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brushing the tops with a beaten egg wash to achieve that beautiful golden glow. As they bake, you’ll be enveloped in the sweet scent of pastry mingling with rich ricotta. Allow them to bake for about 15 minutes, until they puff up and turn a glorious golden brown. Your kitchen will be transformed into a bakery, with scents wafting through the air like a warm embrace.

Finish & Serve

Once baked, allow the squares to cool slightly, teasing your senses as you prepare for the final touch. Dust them with confectioner’s sugar, like a delicate snowfall that adds a touch of elegance. If you’re feeling extra festive, sprinkle with chopped pistachios to bring a pop of color and added crunch. Each square is now not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight.

Creative Twists

While Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares can stand tall on their own, there are plenty of ways to make them your own:

Seasonal Charm: For a fall-themed twist, try adding in pumpkin puree and warming spices like nutmeg and allspice. You’ll create a wonderful autumn dessert that celebrates the season with each delicious bite.
Flavor Upgrades: Consider adding a splash of almond extract or a dollop of espresso to the filling for a rich, café-inspired flavor.
Sweet Sauces: Drizzle with dark chocolate or a raspberry coulis to enhance the visual appeal and add layers of flavor.
Fruit Fillings: Fold in fresh berries or even a spoonful of lemon curd for a refreshing summer version that brings a sunny brightness to every bite.
Nutty Additions: Swap out chocolate chips for crushed pistachios or walnuts for a delightful crunch and unique flavor twist.

Final Inspiration

As you bring these Classic Ricotta Cannoli Squares to life, you’re not just creating a recipe; you’re weaving memories to be cherished and shared. I hope you find joy in every step of this process, from mixing the filling to savoring that first delightful bite. Invite family and friends into your kitchen or make them for a cozy night in—these squares are destined to become a favorite in your culinary rotation.

So, gather your loved ones, serve up a plate of warm, rich squares, and watch the smiles unfold. Each bite is an invitation to pause and appreciate the sweetness of life, reminding us that the simplest moments often hold the most flavor. Enjoy!