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Two Classic Cannoli Squares stacked on a white plate, featuring flaky golden pastry layers, a creamy ricotta and mini chocolate chip filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar and chopped pistachios

Cannoli Squares Easy Italian Dessert

lilya Miller
These Easy Cannoli Squares bring the flavor of a classic Italian pastry into a simple dessert bar anyone can make. With creamy ricotta filling, mini chocolate chips, and a golden flaky crust, each square tastes like it came straight from an Italian bakery—without the hassle of frying. Perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday indulgence.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian-Inspired
Servings 12 squares
Calories 260 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Filling

  • 2 cups Ricotta Cheese (whole milk) strain if watery
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar or substitute with coconut sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips

For the Crust

  • 2 sheets Pre-made Pie Crusts or use homemade for extra buttery flavor
  • 1 large Egg for brushing top crust
  • 1 tbsp Sugar for sprinkling on top

Optional Garnishes

  • 2 tbsp Chopped Pistachios
  • 4 pieces Maraschino Cherries
  • 2 tbsp Extra Mini Chocolate Chips for topping

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mini chocolate chips. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Strain ricotta beforehand if it’s watery.
  • Step 2: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking and a flaky crust.
  • Step 3: Press one pie crust into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking dish, covering corners evenly.
  • Step 4: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the crust, leaving a small edge clear for sealing.
  • Step 5: Lay the second pie crust on top, seal edges by pinching or using a fork. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar on top.
  • Step 6: Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
  • Step 7: Cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with pistachios, cherries, or chocolate chips if desired.

Notes

Strain ricotta thoroughly to prevent watery texture. Mix a bit of cinnamon into the pie dough for extra flavor. Replace mini chocolate chips with chopped dark chocolate for richer taste. For a no-bake option, use a graham cracker crust and chill instead of baking. Slice with a hot knife for clean edges.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 260
  • Total Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg
  • Sodium: 170mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Calcium: 120mg
  • Iron: 1mg
 
Keyword Cannoli Squares, chocolate chip bars, easy dessert bars, Italian dessert, ricotta filling