Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a treat that feels like a hug wrapped in a pastry, the Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. This delightful dessert balances the creamy tang of ricotta with the sweet bursts of chocolate chips, all encased in a tender, buttery square that’s simple enough for a quick bake but special enough to impress. Each bite offers a divine softness paired with a gentle sweetness that makes you want to savor every morsel. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this recipe is a game changer you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You might be surprised how a handful of simple pantry staples come together to create such a rich and comforting dessert. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the ricotta that lends softness and moisture, to the chocolate chips that provide little pockets of melted joy. Here’s the lineup you’ll want to have at the ready:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese: The star ingredient that adds creaminess and a subtle tang to the pastry.
• 1/2 cup sugar: Provides the perfect level of sweetness to balance the ricotta.
• 1/4 cup butter, softened: Ensures a tender, rich texture to the pastry base.
• 1 egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings depth and fragrant sweetness to the batter.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The framework of the squares, giving structure without heaviness.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Adds a slight lift for a light, airy bite.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup chocolate chips: The pièce de résistance, melting into pockets of delightful sweetness.
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A final delicate touch for presentation and subtle sweetness.

How to Make Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Having the oven ready ahead of time helps ensure your pastry squares bake evenly and develop that inviting golden top.

Step 2: Cream the Ricotta Mixture

In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese, sugar, and softened butter until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. This base is what makes the pastries moist and rich, so take your time to get it just right.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Stir these into the creamy mixture until everything is fully combined. This step adds structure and a lovely aroma to the batter that whets your appetite.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Be gentle and just stir until all the flour is moistened — over-mixing can make your pastry dense instead of fluffy.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

It’s time for the magic moment — gently fold in the chocolate chips. These little pockets of chocolate will melt during baking to create irresistible sweet bursts inside every square.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Grease your baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour the batter in and spread it evenly. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Dust

After baking, let the pastry squares cool in the dish for a while before transferring them to a wire rack. If you want that extra touch of elegance and sweetness, dust them lightly with powdered sugar before slicing into squares.

How to Serve Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your pastry squares by topping them with a fresh dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. For extra indulgence, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce never fails to impress.

Side Dishes

These pastry squares pair beautifully with a cup of robust coffee or a steaming mug of tea. For a more filling treat, serve alongside whipped cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese for creamy richness that complements the ricotta.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the pastry squares with layers of fresh berries and whipped cream for an impressive dessert tower. You can also cut smaller squares to create bite-sized finger foods perfect for parties and gatherings. It’s a versatile recipe that shines in every form.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. This keeps them moist and prevents the chocolate chips from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe after baking. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to three months, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert.

Reheating

To enjoy the pastry squares warm, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving works too but can affect texture slightly — the oven method is recommended for that fresh-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use part-skim ricotta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Part-skim ricotta works just fine and will still give you that creamy texture with slightly less fat if you want a lighter version of the pastry squares.

What type of chocolate chips work best?

Classic semi-sweet chocolate chips are a great choice for a balanced sweetness. But feel free to experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips depending on your preference.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a wonderful crunch, while dried fruit like cranberries can introduce a hint of tartness. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that is designed for one-to-one substitution. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for proper texture, and your pastries should turn out beautifully.

How long do the pastry squares stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these squares stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Beyond that, they may start to dry out, so for longer storage, freezing is your best bet.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe that feels both comforting and a little indulgent, making it the perfect go-to dessert for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover how easy it is to create something so delicious with minimal effort. Whether for a casual afternoon treat or a lovely dessert centerpiece, these squares are sure to become one of your favorites too!

Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares Recipe

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4.2 from 86 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these Ricotta Chocolate Chip Pastry Squares, a tender and creamy treat featuring ricotta cheese blended with chocolate chips in a soft, buttery batter. These squares offer a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, lightly dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.

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Ingredients

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Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, softened

Wet Ingredients

• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Add-ins

• 1 cup chocolate chips

Finishing

• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the pastry squares.
2. Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sugar, and softened butter. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, creating a rich base.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is uniform.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently and just until combined to maintain a tender texture.
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter without overmixing.
6. Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the prepared batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The pastry squares are done when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the pastry to cool slightly in the baking dish before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps set the texture.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, lightly dust the cooled squares with powdered sugar. Then cut into squares and serve.

Notes

• Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to keep the pastry tender.
• Use full-fat ricotta cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Chocolate chips can be substituted with mini chocolate chunks or chopped chocolate for varied texture.
• Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smooth batter.
• Optional powdered sugar adds sweetness and a decorative touch.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American