Cannoli Squares: Divine Easy Treat

Cannoli Squares have become my go-to dessert when I want something special without all the fuss of rolling and frying traditional cannoli shells. I first discovered them at a friend’s potluck, and honestly, I couldn’t believe how decadent they tasted for something so simple. The creamy, sweet filling paired with that slightly crisp, buttery crust is just divine. It reminds me of dipping a perfect cannoli, but in a much more manageable, bite-sized form that’s perfect for sharing. If you’re looking for an easy cannoli squares recipe that will impress everyone, you’ve found it. Let’s get baking!

What Are Cannoli Squares?

So, what are cannoli squares? Think of them as a delightful, deconstructed version of the classic Italian pastry. Instead of filling those crispy, fried shells, we’re transforming the beloved cannoli flavors into an easy-to-serve bar. This cannoli dessert squares recipe takes all the creamy, sweet goodness you love from a traditional cannoli and makes it accessible for any home baker. The main difference between cannoli squares vs cannoli is the vessel; we use a baked biscuit crust as our base instead of a fried shell. This means you get that amazing ricotta or mascarpone filling and chocolate chip goodness without the frying!

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Why You’ll Love This Cannoli Squares Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these incredible easy cannoli squares! They’re the perfect dessert for so many reasons:

• Effortless Preparation: Seriously, this is a quick cannoli squares recipe. From start to finish, it’s incredibly straightforward.
• Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: Everyone adores cannoli flavor, and these squares deliver that perfectly creamy, sweet taste everyone craves.
• No Frying Required: Enjoy all the authentic cannoli flavors without the hassle of frying messy shells.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dessert, a potluck, or a party, these bars are always a hit.
• Customizable Toppings: Easily add your favorite garnishes like chocolate chips or pistachios to make them your own.
• Make-Ahead Magic: They taste even better after chilling, making them ideal for prepping in advance.
• Simply Delicious: The combination of the buttery crust and rich, creamy filling is pure dessert bliss.

Ingredients for Delicious Cannoli Squares

Gathering the right cannoli squares ingredients is key to achieving that perfect dessert bar. For this cream cheese cannoli squares recipe, you’ll need a few pantry staples and some dairy essentials:

• 1 (18 ounce) package refrigerated biscuit dough – This forms our simple, no-fuss crust.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – For that essential sweetness in our filling.
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened – The base of our creamy, dreamy filling. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A classic flavor enhancer that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese (or ricotta cheese) – Mascarpone adds a luxurious richness, while ricotta offers a lighter, traditional cannoli flavor.
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish) – Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for garnish) – Because chocolate makes everything better!
• 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (optional, for garnish) – For a pop of color and a touch of fruity sweetness.

How to Make Cannoli Squares

Ready to whip up some deliciousness? This guide will walk you through making these amazing homemade cannoli squares. It’s a straightforward process that delivers incredible results, perfect for any sweet craving.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well, then dust it lightly with flour. This ensures your crust won’t stick.
2. Step 2: Open that package of refrigerated biscuit dough and press the biscuits evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. You want to create a cohesive crust layer that covers the entire base.
3. Step 3: Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly golden hue – don’t overbake it! Once it’s done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool completely before moving on.
4. Step 4: While the crust cools, let’s make the filling! In a medium bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s wonderfully smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until everything is well combined and fluffy.
5. Step 5: Now, gently fold in your mascarpone cheese or ricotta cheese. Mix just until it’s incorporated – you don’t want to overmix here.
6. Step 6: Once the crust is fully cooled, spread this delightful cream cheese mixture evenly over the top. This is the heart of your cannoli bar recipe, so make sure it’s a nice, even layer.
7. Step 7: If you’re adding garnishes, now’s the time! Sprinkle on chopped pistachios, mini chocolate chips, or chopped maraschino cherries for extra flavor and visual appeal.
8. Step 8: Cover the pan and chill the cannoli squares in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for the filling to firm up properly.
9. Step 9: Once chilled and firm, cut the dessert into squares or bars. Serve your delicious cannoli squares chilled and enjoy!

Baking the Biscuit Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it. Press the refrigerated biscuit dough evenly across the bottom to form a solid crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden, then allow it to cool completely.

Preparing the Creamy Filling

In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy. Gently fold in mascarpone or ricotta cheese until just combined. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest texture. For more tips on achieving a smooth filling, check out this guide on making creamy desserts.

Assembling and Chilling Your Cannoli Bars

Spread the prepared creamy filling evenly over the cooled biscuit crust. If desired, add optional garnishes like pistachios or chocolate chips. Cover the pan and chill the cannoli bar recipe in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is firm and set.

Pro Tips for the Best Cannoli Squares

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure these cannoli squares turn out absolutely perfect every single time. Follow these tips, and you’ll be serving up dessert perfection!

• Always use softened cream cheese and mascarpone/ricotta. This is non-negotiable for a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Don’t overbake the biscuit crust; a light golden color is all you need. It will continue to cook slightly as it cools.
• Chill thoroughly! Patience is key here. A well-chilled bar is easier to cut and has a much better texture.
• For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of orange zest to the filling. It really brightens things up!

What’s the secret to perfect cannoli squares?

The real secret to the best cannoli squares recipe is ensuring your dairy ingredients for the filling are at room temperature. This guarantees a super smooth, creamy texture. Also, don’t skimp on the chilling time; it lets the flavors meld and firms everything up beautifully.

Can I make cannoli squares ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cannoli squares are fantastic for making ahead. You can prepare them a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. They often taste even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. For more make-ahead dessert ideas, check out these latest recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cannoli squares?

To avoid a soggy crust, make sure it cools completely before adding the filling. For a lumpy filling, ensure your cream cheese and mascarpone/ricotta are truly softened and beat them until smooth before adding other ingredients. Over-chilling isn’t really a thing, but under-chilling will make them difficult to cut cleanly.

Variations of Cannoli Squares You Can Try

The beauty of this dessert is its versatility! These cannoli squares variations are fantastic for switching things up. You can tailor them to your taste or dietary needs, making them perfect for any gathering. Whether you want a richer flavor, a different texture, or even a dairy-free option, there’s a variation for you.

• Chocolate Lovers’ Dream: Add a cup of mini chocolate chips directly into the cream cheese filling for decadent chocolate cannoli squares. You could also drizzle melted chocolate over the top before chilling.
• Lemon or Orange Zest Kick: For a brighter, more citrusy flavor, add the zest of one lemon or orange to the cream cheese mixture. It pairs beautifully with the sweet filling.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free biscuit dough alternative or create a crust from crushed gluten-free cookies (like almond flour cookies) mixed with melted butter.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the cream cheese and mascarpone with dairy-free alternatives. There are many excellent plant-based cream cheeses and yogurts available now that work wonderfully.

Mini Cannoli Squares

For a charming presentation at parties, consider making mini cannoli squares. Simply press the biscuit dough into mini muffin tins and bake. Then, pipe or spoon the filling into the baked crust cups. They become adorable, bite-sized treats!

Cannoli Dip Squares

Craving cannoli flavor but want something even easier? Make cannoli dip squares! Prepare the filling as usual but skip baking the crust. Serve the creamy filling in a dish with crushed cannoli shells, graham crackers, or fruit for dipping. It’s a fun, interactive dessert.

Best Ways to Serve Cannoli Squares

Serving these delightful cannoli dessert squares is almost as fun as making them! They’re incredibly versatile, perfect for a casual family treat or the star of any dessert table at cannoli squares for parties. I love serving them chilled, straight from the fridge, as the cool creaminess is so refreshing. For an extra touch, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra chopped pistachios on top always looks fantastic. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine. You can even serve them alongside fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Nutrition Facts for Cannoli Squares

Here are the estimated nutritional values for these delightful cannoli squares, calculated per serving based on the recipe yield. These figures give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying with each bite of this sweet treat.

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 150 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and optional garnishes.

How to Store and Reheat Cannoli Squares

Storing your delicious cannoli squares properly is key to keeping them tasting fresh and delicious. Once they’ve chilled and you’ve cut them into bars, make sure they are completely cooled before storing. The best way to keep them is in an airtight container in your refrigerator. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh for about 3 to 4 days this way. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead dessert, ensuring you always have a treat on hand. If you’re wondering about reheating your cannoli slice recipe leftovers, there’s no real need to reheat them as they are best served chilled. Simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cannoli Squares

Can I freeze cannoli squares?

Yes, you absolutely can freeze these delightful cannoli squares! Once they are fully chilled and cut, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply transfer them to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. They are perfect for making ahead and having on hand for unexpected guests.

What can I use instead of mascarpone or ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have mascarpone or ricotta cheese, don’t worry! You can achieve a similar creamy texture by using an equal amount of full-fat plain Greek yogurt or even a softened block of cream cheese. For a richer flavor profile, some people even use a bit of whipped cream cheese blended with a touch of sour cream to mimic the tang and richness. The key is to maintain a thick, creamy consistency for your filling in this cannoli bar recipe.

How do I get clean cuts when slicing my cannoli squares?

For the neatest slices of your cannoli squares, make sure they are thoroughly chilled before cutting. Use a large, sharp knife and wipe the blade clean with a damp cloth between each cut. This prevents the creamy filling from smearing and ensures you get those perfect, defined edges. A serrated knife can also work well for cutting through the crust without compressing the filling too much.

Are cannoli squares the same as cannoli dip?

While they share the delicious cannoli flavors, cannoli squares are not the same as cannoli dip. Cannoli squares feature a firm biscuit crust base with a set creamy filling, cut into individual portions. Cannoli dip, on the other hand, is a looser, spreadable version of the filling, meant to be scooped up with cookies or fruit. You can even adapt this recipe to make a dip by omitting the crust and adjusting the filling consistency slightly! For another easy dessert option, try these churro saltine toffee.

Cannoli Squares: Divine Easy Treat

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• Author: Jannet Lisa
• Total Time: 2 hours 32 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cannoli Squares offer a delightful twist on the classic Italian pastry, presenting a creamy, sweet, and satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion. This easy cannoli squares recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (18 ounce) package refrigerated biscuit dough
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese (or ricotta cheese)
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Press the biscuit dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust.
3. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
4. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined and fluffy.
5. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese (or ricotta cheese) until just combined.
6. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled biscuit crust. This forms the creamy layer of your cannoli bars.
7. If desired, sprinkle the top with chopped pistachios, mini chocolate chips, or chopped maraschino cherries for added flavor and visual appeal.
8. Chill the cannoli squares in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
9. Cut the chilled dessert into squares or bars. Serve your delicious cannoli squares chilled.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute ricotta cheese with mascarpone cheese.
• Add a touch of citrus zest (like orange or lemon) to the cream cheese filling for a brighter flavor.
• Experiment with different toppings like mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
• Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
• These cannoli squares are best served chilled.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking and No-Bake
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg

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