Chef Mitchell preparing Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this unique recipe during a culinary class in Italy. The combination of classic cannoli filling and a simple square form made it an instant favorite among my friends and family. Over the years, I've perfected it, adding my twist with chocolate chips. Now, it's a staple at my dessert table, loved by everyone who tries it."

With over a decade of experience in Italian cuisine, I have crafted numerous dessert recipes that pay homage to traditional methods while adding a modern flair. My love for sweet dishes has led me to explore various flavors and textures, creating unique desserts that are both approachable and delicious.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares served on a plate

Why This Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares Recipe Works

This recipe is a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, offering the best of both worlds. The ricotta and mascarpone create a rich filling, while the graham cracker crust adds a delightful texture. Using mini chocolate chips ensures every bite has a touch of sweetness without overpowering the classic cannoli flavor.

The technique of chilling the squares allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while the whipped cream adds lightness to the filling. The addition of citrus zest brings freshness that brightens the dessert, making it a refreshing treat after any meal.

💡 Professional Tip

To achieve the best texture, ensure your ricotta is well-drained before mixing. This prevents the filling from becoming too watery. For an added touch, consider using flavored whipped cream or drizzling with chocolate sauce before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! These squares can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop even further. Just ensure they are well-covered to prevent them from drying out.

If you're looking for a substitute for ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can work in a pinch. Blend it until smooth for a similar texture. Alternatively, you can use mascarpone cheese for a richer flavor, but keep in mind it will alter the sweetness and fat content.

Since the cannoli squares are chilled rather than baked, they are 'done' when they have set properly in the refrigerator. After about 4 hours, check for firmness; they should hold their shape when sliced.

Yes, you can freeze these squares! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

These squares pair beautifully with a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine. For a touch of elegance, consider serving them with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

In the refrigerator, these cannoli squares will last for about 3-4 days. Be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from absorbing other odors.

Yes, making these cannoli squares in advance is highly recommended. They taste even better after they have had time to chill and set. Just prepare them and store them in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

These squares are best enjoyed chilled and should not be reheated. If they have been frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your cannoli squares turn out too dry, it might be due to overbaking the crust or not enough moisture in the filling.

Solution: Make sure to check the crust while baking to avoid overcooking. For the filling, ensure your ricotta is well-drained but still creamy, and consider adding a bit more cream if necessary.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the crust is not crispy enough, it may not have been baked long enough or the butter wasn't fully incorporated.

Solution: Ensure the crust mixture is pressed firmly into the dish and baked until lightly golden. Consider increasing the baking time slightly if necessary.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked cannoli squares can become tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep a close eye on your baking time and remove them as soon as they are golden brown. Cooling them quickly also helps maintain moisture.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the squares is undercooked, they may not set properly.

Recovery: Ensure proper chilling time in the refrigerator. If you encounter this issue, you can place the squares back in the fridge for an additional hour or two until fully set.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior on your crust indicates it was baked at too high a temperature or for too long.

Prevention: Use an oven thermometer to check your oven's accuracy, and reduce the temperature slightly if necessary. Baking at a lower temperature for a longer time can help achieve a more balanced bake.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your squares are too sweet, try balancing with a pinch of salt in the filling or serving with unsweetened whipped cream.

Too Salty: If they taste too salty, adding a bit more sugar to the filling can help balance the flavors. Consider serving with fresh fruit to cut through the saltiness.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, a bit more vanilla extract or citrus zest can enhance the overall taste. Don't shy away from adjusting seasonings to your preference.

Fresh ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares

Essential Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares

The key ingredients for these squares include ricotta and mascarpone cheese, which provide a creamy texture and rich flavor. Mini chocolate chips add sweetness without overwhelming the cannoli flavor, while citrus zests brighten the filling.

Using high-quality ricotta is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Avoid watery ricotta by choosing a well-drained brand, and always opt for fresh citrus for the best flavor.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Ricotta Cheese: Always choose whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture in your filling. If you can, drain it for a few hours before using to remove excess moisture.
  • Mascarpone Cheese: Mascarpone adds richness to the filling. Ensure it's at room temperature before mixing for easier incorporation into the ricotta.
  • Chocolate Chips: Mini chocolate chips work best as they distribute evenly throughout the filling without sinking to the bottom. Choose quality chocolate for the best flavor.
Cooking process for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares is straightforward, making it an accessible dessert for all skill levels. Begin by preparing the crust, then mix the filling and assemble in layers.

The key to achieving perfect results lies in the chilling time. Allowing the squares to set properly ensures each slice holds together beautifully and delivers a delightful flavor explosion.

Key Technique for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares

The most important technique in this recipe is the chilling process. It allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up, creating a delightful texture. Make sure to cover the dessert well during this time to retain moisture.

Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar
    Granulated
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    Pure
  • 2 cups heavy cream
    Whipped
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
    For dusting
  • Fresh fruit
    For serving

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
    Well-drained
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
    Sweet addition
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    For warmth
  • 1 package of graham crackers, crushed
    For the crust
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
    For binding
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    For lightness
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
    For brightness
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
    For garnish
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
    For extra flavor
  • Pinch of salt
    For balance
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder (for dusting)
    For presentation
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish
    For decoration

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust

    In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Press mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish.

  2. Mix the Filling

    In another bowl, blend ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.

  3. Add Flavor

    Stir in chocolate chips, lemon zest, and orange zest into the ricotta mixture until evenly combined.

  4. Spread the Filling

    Pour the ricotta mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

  5. Chill

    Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

  6. Whip Cream

    In a bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the chilled filling.

  7. Serve

    Cut into squares and dust with cocoa powder before serving. Garnish with pistachios and fresh mint.

  8. Enjoy

    Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Chocolate Chip Cannoli Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3-4 days, but are best enjoyed fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these squares with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or alongside fresh fruit for a delightful contrast.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding different extracts like almond or hazelnut. You can also substitute the chocolate chips with dried fruit or nuts for a different texture.