Description
Classic Cannoli Squares are an irresistible twist on the beloved Italian dessert — without the fuss of frying. Flaky puff pastry replaces the traditional shell, layered with a sweet, creamy ricotta filling studded with mini chocolate chips and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and crunchy pistachios. Whether you’re searching for easy dessert ideas, Italian-inspired treats, or a show-stopping party dessert, this quick recipe delivers elegance and indulgence in every bite. Great for entertaining, holiday spreads, or simple sweet cravings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make ahead and easier to love.
Ingredients
2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten
Powdered sugar, for dusting
2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, well-drained
0.75 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
0.5 teaspoon orange or lemon zest (optional)
0.75 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
Extra chocolate chips, for topping
Extra powdered sugar, for final dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry sheets to even thickness and place on the lined sheets.
3. Brush each with beaten egg and prick all over with a fork.
4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden and crisp. Let cool completely.
5. In a bowl, mix drained ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, and zest until smooth.
6. Fold in mini chocolate chips. Chill filling for 15–20 minutes.
7. Place one pastry sheet on a board or tray. Spread ricotta filling evenly.
8. Top with the second pastry sheet and gently press down to secure.
9. Dust with powdered sugar, top with pistachios and extra chips.
10. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares and serving.
Notes
Drain your ricotta overnight for the creamiest, most stable filling.
Always cool your pastry fully before assembly to avoid a soggy texture.
Chill the assembled dessert before slicing to get clean, sharp squares.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: easy dessert, Italian sweets, no-fry cannoli, puff pastry dessert, ricotta recipe