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To make Cannoli Cookie Squares, you need these simple ingredients: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for dough) - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1/4 cup powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling) - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips - Zest of 1 orange (optional) - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) Each ingredient plays a key role. The flour gives the base structure. Cocoa powder adds rich flavor. Sugar adds sweetness, while baking powder helps the squares rise. Salt enhances all the flavors. Butter makes the dough creamy. The egg binds everything together. For the filling, ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture. Powdered sugar sweetens it up. The second vanilla extract keeps the flavors bright. Mini chocolate chips bring bursts of chocolate. The optional orange zest adds a fresh note, and cinnamon adds warmth. Gather these items before you start. It makes cooking smooth and fun! {{ingredient_image_2}} - Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pan Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. This helps the squares come out easily. - Step 2: Make the cookie base In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. - Step 3: Cream the butter and mix wet ingredients In another bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened butter until creamy. Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and combined. - Step 4: Combine mixtures into a cohesive dough Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir with a spatula or mix on low speed. Continue until a soft dough forms. - Step 5: Spread the dough in the baking pan Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will be the cookie base. - Step 6: Prepare the ricotta filling In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips. If you want, add the zest of 1 orange for some brightness. - Step 7: Spread the filling over the base Carefully spread the ricotta mixture over the cookie base in the pan. Make sure to cover it evenly for the best flavor. - Step 8: Top with remaining dough Crumble the leftover dough over the ricotta filling. This will create a nice topping that bakes beautifully. - Step 9: Bake the assembled Cannoli Cookie Squares Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. The top should feel set when it’s done. - Step 10: Cool and slice for serving Once baked, let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into squares and enjoy! To make these Cannoli Cookie Squares shine, start with room temperature ingredients. When your butter and egg are at room temp, they blend better. This makes your dough smooth and creamy. You want your dough to be easy to work with. If it sticks, try dusting your work surface with a little flour. This keeps the dough from clinging and makes it fun to mold. Dusting the top with powdered sugar is a must! It gives a lovely snowy look. Use a fine sieve to sprinkle it evenly, making it look neat. Serve your cookie squares on a pretty plate. Add fresh berries on the side for color and freshness. The tartness of berries pairs well with the sweet squares. Enjoy the delightful contrast on your plate! Pro Tips Chill Your Dough: For easier handling, refrigerate the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before pressing it into the pan. This helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to create an even base. Use Quality Ricotta: Choose a high-quality, creamy ricotta cheese for the filling. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your Cannoli Cookie Squares. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different flavorings to the ricotta filling, such as almond extract or a splash of espresso, for a unique twist on the classic cannoli taste. Storage Tips: Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, but are best enjoyed fresh! {{image_4}} You can change the taste of Cannoli Cookie Squares in fun ways. Start by trying different types of chocolate. Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or white chocolate for a sweeter touch. Mixing in flavored chocolate can add a nice twist. If you want to switch up the ricotta cheese, consider using mascarpone. This cheese has a smooth texture and adds creamy richness. You can also try cottage cheese for a lighter filling. Just blend it well for a smooth consistency. For those who need gluten-free options, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many brands offer great alternatives that work well in baking. Just make sure to check labels for safety. If you follow a vegan diet, you can replace the butter and eggs. Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a similar taste. For the egg, try a flaxseed meal mixed with water. This will help bind the ingredients. To keep your Cannoli Cookie Squares fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps avoid drying out. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. I recommend using a glass or plastic container with a tight seal. This protects the squares and keeps them tasty for days. You can freeze Cannoli Cookie Squares for longer storage. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped squares in a freezer bag or container. This keeps them fresh and prevents freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the squares in the fridge overnight. For the best flavor, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving. Enjoy your sweet treat anytime! Can I make these Cannoli Cookie Squares ahead of time? Yes, you can make these cookie squares a day before. Just store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese if I don’t have any? You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese instead of ricotta. Blend them well for a smooth filling. How long do leftovers last? Leftovers last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure to keep them in a sealed container. Can I use a different pan size? You can use a larger pan, but the squares may bake faster. Keep an eye on them as they cook. Is it okay to add nuts or fruits to the recipe? Yes! You can add chopped nuts or dried fruits. They will give extra texture and flavor to the squares. You now know how to make Cannoli Cookie Squares with a simple recipe. We covered all the ingredients needed, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for success. You can also try different flavors and storage methods for your treats. Enjoy making these delicious cookie squares for any occasion! Your family and friends will love them, and they’re easy to share and customize. Get creative and have fun in the kitchen!

Cannoli Cookie Squares

Delicious cookie squares inspired by classic cannoli, featuring a rich chocolate base and creamy ricotta filling.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Servings 16
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for dough)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 0.25 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
  • 0.25 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1 zest orange (optional)
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well blended.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and fluffy. Add the egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  • Press two-thirds of the dough evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan, reserving the remaining dough for topping.
  • In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mini chocolate chips, and optional orange zest. Stir until creamy.
  • Spread the ricotta mixture over the cookie base in the baking pan.
  • Crumble the remaining dough over the ricotta filling to create a topping.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is set and slightly firm.
  • Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Keyword cannoli, chocolate, cookies, dessert, ricotta