Description
These Cannoli Cheesecake Bars combine the classic flavors of traditional cannoli with the creamy richness of cheesecake. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a luscious ricotta-cream cheese filling studded with mini chocolate chips, these bars are an irresistible treat for any dessert lover. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and optional extra chocolate chips, they’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or a special homemade indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Additional mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted unsalted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add both the sugars, vanilla extract, and optional orange zest, mixing well. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to distribute them throughout the batter.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but mostly firm.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set the bars. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Serve: Cut into 12 bars and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Allow the bars to chill thoroughly for clean cutting and the best texture.
- For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped pistachios or walnuts into the filling or as a topping.
- If you prefer a stronger citrus flavor, add more orange zest or a splash of fresh orange juice to the filling.
- Use full-fat ricotta and cream cheese for richer, creamier bars.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
