Description
Sicilian-inspired ricotta cannoli squares blend creamy sweetness with crisp pastry layers, delivering a delightful dessert experience. Delicate textures and rich flavors invite you to savor each indulgent bite of this classic Italian treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust and Top Crust Ingredients:
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Main Filling Ingredients:
- 2 cups (454 grams) ricotta cheese (well-drained)
- 1/2 cup (85 grams) mini chocolate chips
- 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar (sifted)
Additional Flavor and Garnish Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
- Chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions
- Craft the foundational layer by combining flour, sugar, and baking powder in a mixing vessel. Integrate cold butter until the mixture transforms into a grainy texture resembling coarse sand.
- Incorporate egg and vanilla extract, blending until the dough coheres into a uniform mass. Transfer the mixture into a parchment-lined baking vessel, pressing evenly to create a consistent base.
- Roast the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F until it achieves a delicate golden hue, approximately 15-18 minutes. Allow the base to cool completely before proceeding.
- Prepare the creamy ricotta filling by whisking ricotta cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and fragrant orange zest until the mixture reaches a silky, uniform consistency.
- Gently fold mini chocolate chips into the ricotta mixture, distributing them evenly throughout the filling.
- Spread the ricotta mixture across the cooled crust, utilizing a spatula to create a smooth, level surface. Refrigerate for a minimum of two hours to allow the filling to set firmly.
- Once chilled, elevate the dessert from the pan using parchment paper edges and transfer to a cutting surface.
- Slice the dessert into twelve equal squares, creating precise, clean cuts.
- Enhance the squares with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, then garnish with additional mini chocolate chips and finely chopped pistachios for textural contrast and visual appeal.
Notes
- Adapt the crust by substituting gluten-free flour blend for traditional flour to make the dessert celiac-friendly and inclusive for those with wheat sensitivities.
- Experiment with dairy-free ricotta alternatives like cashew or almond-based ricotta for vegan guests, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful squares.
- Consider reducing sugar content by using monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a lower-calorie version that maintains the dessert’s delectable flavor profile.
- Toast pistachios before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and provide an extra layer of complexity to the garnish, elevating the overall taste experience.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg