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Easy Classic Cannoli Squares - No Special Equipment Needed

Classic Cannoli Squares capture all the beloved flavors of traditional Italian cannoli in an easy bar format. With creamy ricotta filling, chocolate chips, and a golden pastry crust, this simplified recipe eliminates the tricky shell-making while still delivering authentic bakery-style taste.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Servings: 9 squares
Course: Dessert, Easy Baking, Italian Recipes
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Luscious Filling:
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese whole milk recommended
  • 1 cup powdered sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon optional
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips dark preferred
For the Golden Crust:
  • 2 pre-made pie crusts
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For Stunning Garnishes:
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
  • 3 maraschino cherries chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra chocolate chips

Method
 

  1. Make filling: Mix ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate chips until smooth.
  2. Prep oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C), center rack.
  3. Bottom crust: Press 1 pie crust into 9x9-inch baking dish.
  4. Add filling: Spread ricotta mixture evenly over crust.
  5. Top crust: Place second crust over filling, seal edges, trim excess.
  6. Finish: Brush with beaten egg, sprinkle with sugar.
  7. Bake: 30–35 minutes until crust is deep golden brown.
  8. Cool: Let sit 30 minutes before cutting for clean squares.

Notes

Cool completely before slicing – rushing this step causes messy cuts and filling seepage.