Introduction

Cannoli Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic flavors of a cannoli. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing at any gathering. With a graham cracker crust and chocolate chip-studded filling, they offer a delightful twist on traditional desserts.

Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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
Powdered sugar for dusting
Additional mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: 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.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: 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.
Step 4: Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently to distribute them throughout the batter.
Step 5: 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.
Step 6: 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.
Step 7: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips if desired. Cut into 12 bars and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For a citrus boost, add more orange zest or a splash of orange extract to the filling.
Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make these bars gluten-free.
Replace mini chocolate chips with chopped pistachios or candied fruit for a different texture and flavor.
Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother filling.

Storage

Store these cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them refrigerated and wait until serving time to add the powdered sugar and extra chocolate chips.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with an equal amount of cream cheese, but the flavor will be richer and the texture slightly denser. For the classic cannoli taste, ricotta is recommended.

Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 62 reviews

These Cannoli Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of traditional cannoli filling with a luscious cheesecake texture on a cinnamon-spiced graham cracker crust. Mini chocolate chips add delightful bursts of flavor in every bite. Perfectly baked and chilled, these bars are a delightful twist on two classic Italian desserts, ideal for parties, dessert tables, or an indulgent treat at home.

Author: Elias
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 60 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

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

Cheesecake 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 to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
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 thoroughly until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the crust layer.
Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese and softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add both granulated sugar and powdered sugar, then stir in vanilla extract and optional orange zest. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated, then gently fold in the mini chocolate chips to evenly distribute them throughout the batter.
Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is mostly firm but still slightly jiggly.
Cool and garnish: Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the bars fully set. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips if desired.
Serve: Cut the cheesecake into 12 bars and serve chilled to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For easier removal, line the baking pan with parchment paper extending over the edges.
Orange zest is optional but adds a lovely citrus note reminiscent of traditional cannoli filling.
Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly as it will firm up while cooling.
Chilling the bars thoroughly before cutting helps them hold their shape better.

Keywords: Cannoli cheesecake bars, cannoli dessert, cheesecake bars, Italian desserts, easy cheesecake, dessert bars