When you crave a dessert that feels both indulgent and simply delightful, this Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe is just what you need. Picture flaky, golden puff pastry enveloping a creamy, subtly sweet ricotta and chocolate chip filling, creating little pockets of bliss with every bite. These treats come together quickly and effortlessly, perfect for an unexpected dessert or a cozy afternoon snack that dazzles without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares is all in the straightforward ingredients you can easily find in your kitchen or local store. Each element plays a crucial role in balancing texture, flavor, and that irresistible visual appeal.
- Frozen puff pastry sheet: This forms the crisp, flaky base of the squares and adds beautiful golden layers when baked.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy, smooth filling with just the right tang and richness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the ricotta filling without overpowering it.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm, floral notes.
- Almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle, nutty complexity that pairs beautifully with ricotta and chocolate.
- Mini chocolate chips: Melty bursts of chocolate that make these pastries truly special and decadent.
- Egg (beaten): Used as an egg wash to give the pastry squares a glossy, golden finish.
- Powdered sugar: Sprinkled on top for that final touch of sweetness and visual charm.
How to Make Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Then, in a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta, sugar, vanilla, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of almond extract. Once smooth, fold in mini chocolate chips to infuse those delightful chocolate pockets into every bite.
Step 2: Work With the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your surface and unfold the thawed puff pastry. Give it a gentle roll just to smooth out creases without thinning it too much. Then, cut the sheet into 9 equal squares, preparing to cradle that luscious ricotta filling.
Step 3: Fill and Seal the Pastry Squares
Spoon about one tablespoon of the ricotta mixture into the center of each square. Fold the pastry over diagonally to make neat triangles and press the edges gently together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges, which not only ensures the filling stays put but also creates an inviting, decorative trim.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches and Bake
Place your prepared pastries on the baking sheet, then brush the tops with beaten egg to achieve that irresistible golden shine. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re puffed up beautifully and enchanted with a rich, golden hue.
Step 5: Cool and Dust
Let the fresh pastries cool just a little before dusting generously with powdered sugar. This not only adds sweetness but also makes them look like a fancy bakery creation right at home.
How to Serve Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe
Garnishes
While the powdered sugar finish is classic, you can easily jazz these up with a handful of fresh berries or a drizzle of warm honey for an extra touch of sweetness. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds also adds a lovely crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft pastry.
Side Dishes
These pastry squares shine on their own, but they also love company. Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert to impress. For a lighter touch, enjoy with a cup of robust coffee or a fragrant herbal tea to bring out the nuanced flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the pastry squares on a rustic wooden board or a pretty platter lined with parchment paper. For parties, serve them warm in mini muffin tins to keep them cozy and easy to grab. Another fun idea is to thread toothpicks through the corners for bite-sized treats while sipping a glass of sparkling prosecco or your favorite dessert wine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll hold up nicely for about two days, maintaining that lovely balance of crispy pastry and creamy filling without drying out.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the unbaked pastry squares on a tray to freeze individually until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh results.
Reheating
To revive the pastry’s crispness, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid the microwave when possible, as it tends to make the pastry soggy instead of flaky.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ricotta for this recipe?
Absolutely, but keep in mind that whole milk ricotta adds creaminess and richness that low-fat versions may lack. If you want a lighter version, low-fat works but expect a slightly less indulgent texture.
Is almond extract necessary for the Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe?
Not at all! Almond extract is optional and adds a lovely nutty hint, but the vanilla and ricotta combo alone creates amazing flavor. Feel free to leave it out if you prefer simplicity.
Can I substitute mascarpone for ricotta?
Yes! Mascarpone offers an even creamier and richer filling that some people adore. It will slightly change the texture but keep the delicious flavor intact.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Ensure you seal the edges well and use the egg wash to create a barrier. Baking the pastries at a high temperature also helps crisp them up nicely, keeping the filling from making the dough soggy.
What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?
No worries! Regular-sized chocolate chips work, just distribute fewer per square to avoid overpowering the filling. Alternatively, finely chop a chocolate bar for melting pockets of chocolate.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough taking a little time to make this Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe your new go-to dessert or snack. The ease, the delightful flavors, and the warm, flaky bites are guaranteed to bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to your table. Trust me, once you try these squares, they’ll become a beloved classic for sharing and indulging whenever sweet cravings strike.
Print
Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 9 pastry squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares, a perfect blend of creamy ricotta, sweet chocolate chips, and flaky puff pastry. This Italian-American dessert offers a deliciously light yet indulgent treat, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For Brushing and Garnish
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Mix until the filling is smooth. Stir in the mini chocolate chips to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. Gently roll it out to smooth any creases without making it too thin, preparing it for cutting.
- Cut Pastry and Fill: Cut the pastry into nine equal squares. Place roughly one tablespoon of the ricotta mixture into the center of each pastry square, ensuring even distribution of the filling.
- Fold and Seal: Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges together gently but firmly to seal the filling inside. Use a fork to crimp the edges, which helps to secure the seal and creates a decorative edge.
- Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Transfer the prepared pastries to the lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg to give a glossy, golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the pastry squares from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
Notes
- You can substitute mascarpone cheese for ricotta to achieve a creamier texture in the filling.
- These pastries are best enjoyed on the same day they are baked to maintain their crispness and freshness.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
