Description
Classic Cannoli Squares are an easy-to-make Italian-inspired dessert featuring layers of creamy ricotta and mascarpone cheese mixture combined with chocolate chips and pistachios, sandwiched between graham crackers and topped with whipped cream. Perfectly chilled, these dessert squares offer the rich flavors of traditional cannoli without the fuss of frying shells.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
Base & Topping
- 1 package graham crackers
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios into the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout.
- Layer Graham Crackers: In a suitable baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers evenly at the bottom to form the base.
- First Cheese Layer: Spread half of the prepared cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer.
- Second Graham Cracker Layer: Place another layer of graham crackers over the cheese mixture, covering it completely.
- Second Cheese Layer: Spread the remaining cheese mixture evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.
- Whip Cream: Using a mixer or whisk, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly on top of the final cheese layer for a light and fluffy topping.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set firmly.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, cut the dessert into squares using a sharp knife. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use whole milk ricotta and mascarpone for creaminess.
- Make sure to allow the squares to chill thoroughly to let the graham crackers soften slightly and the flavors meld.
- You can substitute pistachios with chopped almonds or walnuts if preferred.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead to save time.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
