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Creamy Cannoli Squares Recipe with Perfect Flaky Layers

creamy cannoli squares - featured image

These creamy cannoli squares combine buttery pastry layers with a velvety vanilla ricotta filling, offering a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package puff pastry sheets, thawed
  • All-purpose flour (for dusting)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (full-fat for the best texture)
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use pure vanilla for optimal flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest (for a fresh and zesty twist)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Mini chocolate chips (optional, for a touch of indulgence)
  • Crushed pistachios (optional, for extra crunch)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets to smooth out creases. Cut each sheet into equal-sized rectangles or squares.
  3. Place the pastry squares onto the prepared baking sheet and poke a few holes into each one with a fork to prevent uneven puffing.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky. Avoid overbaking.
  5. Prepare the creamy filling by combining ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  6. Stir in the orange zest until evenly distributed.
  7. Once the pastry squares are cooled, place one square on a serving plate as the base layer.
  8. Spread a generous layer of the creamy filling on top of the base square, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
  9. Place another pastry square on top of the filling, gently pressing down to create layers. Repeat for thicker squares.
  10. Dust the top layer with powdered sugar and optionally sprinkle mini chocolate chips and crushed pistachios.
  11. Refrigerate the assembled squares for at least 2 hours to set the filling and meld flavors.

Notes

Chill the filling if it seems too soft before assembling. Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor, and customize toppings to suit your taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cannoli, Dessert, Italian, Puff Pastry, Ricotta, Mascarpone, Easy Recipe