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Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and beautifully spiced with hints of orange and cinnamon—Classic Cannoli Squares bring all the magic of a traditional Sicilian dessert but in a crowd-pleasing, sliceable form. Imagine everything you love about a crisp cannoli shell wrapped around velvety ricotta cream, now layered effortlessly into golden pastry squares. These are the kinds of treats that make people ask for the recipe before they’ve even finished chewing.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking to impress guests at a dinner party, or simply want a dessert that hits that perfect note between nostalgic and inventive, Cannoli Squares deliver. They’re easy to prep ahead, slice cleanly, and don’t require deep frying—a huge bonus if you’re avoiding the mess of traditional cannoli. Each bite is packed with flavor, and they look gorgeous dusted in powdered sugar.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Cannoli Squares Recipe

This dessert is everything: crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, with just the right amount of sweetness. The simplicity of the method means you can enjoy the taste of authentic cannoli without a pastry bag or fryer. Plus, these squares are portable, easy to cut, and hold their shape beautifully, making them ideal for potlucks or holidays.

From the zesty orange notes to the hint of cinnamon in the crust, every detail is designed to bring comfort and wow-factor in equal measure.

What Kind of Ricotta Should I Use?

Use whole milk ricotta that has been thoroughly drained to avoid any watery results. Place it in a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl or wrap it in cheesecloth and let it drain in the fridge for at least a few hours, preferably overnight. If it’s too moist, your filling won’t set properly and the bottom layer can get soggy.

Ingredients for the Classic Cannoli Squares

Cannoli Squares are all about balancing textures and bold flavor, so each ingredient plays a key role in making that happen. Here’s what you need:

Refrigerated pie crusts – They serve as the base and top layer, giving you that flaky, golden crunch similar to a fried cannoli shell.

Whole milk ricotta – The heart of the filling, ricotta brings a rich, creamy texture. Make sure it’s well-drained for best results.

Powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling without any grit, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth smoothness.

Mini chocolate chips – For pockets of chocolate in every bite. You can use dark, milk, or even white chips based on your preference.

Orange zest – Adds brightness and a citrusy kick that’s classic to Italian cannoli flavor.

Ground cinnamon – Enhances the crust with warmth and aromatic spice.

Egg white – Helps seal the crusts together and gives the top a beautiful golden finish.

Powdered sugar (again) – For dusting on top, giving them that bakery-fresh appearance.

How To Make the Classic Cannoli Squares

Step 1: Prep the Ricotta Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta, powdered sugar, orange zest, and mini chocolate chips. Stir until well combined and smooth. Chill this mixture while you prep your crust.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pie Crust

Roll out one refrigerated pie crust and place it in a lightly greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Gently press it to fit and slightly up the edges.

Step 3: Add the Cannoli Filling

Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the bottom crust. Make sure it’s distributed smoothly to ensure even layers in each bite.

Step 4: Add the Top Crust

Roll out the second pie crust and lay it gently over the filling. Press the edges to seal. Lightly brush the top with egg white, then sprinkle with ground cinnamon.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and crisp. Allow to cool completely before slicing.

Step 6: Dust and Serve

Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve and Store Classic Cannoli Squares

These Cannoli Squares are best served chilled or at room temp, making them perfect for make-ahead gatherings. They feed about 12 people comfortably and look beautiful on a dessert tray. If you’re serving them for a brunch or after dinner, garnish with a little extra orange zest for color.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The crust will stay crisp, and the filling keeps its creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as the ricotta can become grainy once thawed.

What to Serve With Classic Cannoli Squares?

A shot of espresso

The rich creaminess of the squares pairs wonderfully with strong coffee.

Limoncello or amaretto

Serve these squares with a chilled Italian liqueur for a truly authentic treat.

Fresh berries

Strawberries or raspberries bring a juicy contrast to the creamy filling.

Cappuccino or latte

Perfect for brunch gatherings or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Biscotti or amaretti cookies

Add texture contrast on your dessert table.

Chocolate drizzle

Warm up some dark chocolate and lightly drizzle it over the squares for extra indulgence.

Honey-roasted almonds

A small handful on the side adds a nutty crunch.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you enjoyed making these cannoli squares, you’ll love these other Luna Meals favorites:

Check out these creative desserts:

• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches for that carnival-inspired indulgence.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls when you want fruity and creamy wrapped into one.
• Brownie Mix Cookies if you’re craving something chewy and chocolatey.
• Dr. Pepper Brownies for a fun soda twist on a classic.
• Southern Banana Cobbler if you’re leaning into comfort food mode.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add pistachios? Try a touch of vanilla? I’d love to hear your spin on this favorite.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and delicious desserts on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next dessert obsession.

Conclusion

Classic Cannoli Squares take the irresistible flavor of Italian cannoli and make it easy, sliceable, and sharable. Whether you’re new to making cannoli or just want a no-fry alternative, these bars deliver on all counts. With crisp pie crust, creamy sweet filling, and the bright touch of citrus and chocolate, they’re destined to become a new go-to dessert in your kitchen.

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