There is something absolutely irresistible about combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the crunchy, sweet notes of a traditional cannoli. This Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe perfectly captures that magic, giving you a delightful dessert that balances smooth ricotta and cream cheese filling with a crunchy cinnamon-graham cracker crust. These bars are an easy, crowd-pleasing treat ideal for any gathering or a luxurious snack to sweeten your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Though the ingredient list may look detailed, each item plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe truly special. From the crumbly crust to the creamy filling, these essentials come together to create the perfect harmony in every bite.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Provide a buttery, slightly crunchy base that complements the cheesecake filling beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Sweetens both the crust and the filling to balance tanginess and textural elements.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a warm, subtle spice to the crust, creating depth and enhancing the overall flavor.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Binds the crust ingredients and ensures a golden finish with a rich mouthfeel.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Brings lightness and a slight grainy texture that’s characteristic of cannoli filling, making these bars unique.
- Cream cheese, softened (1 cup): Provides the creamy body and creamy tang we love in cheesecake.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Delivers smooth sweetness and subtle thickness to the filling without grittiness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds aromatic, sweet depth that elevates every bite.
- Orange zest (1 teaspoon, optional): Offers a fresh, citrus brightness that balances the richness when included.
- Large eggs (2): Help set and stabilize the cheesecake bars while keeping them silky and smooth.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup + extra for topping): Infuse pockets of chocolatey goodness, reminiscent of the classic cannoli filling.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: Adds an elegant finishing touch with a delicate sweetness.
How to Make Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture feels like damp sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined baking pan, creating an even, compact crust layer that will hold while baking.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add both sugars, vanilla extract, and orange zest if using, then blend until fully incorporated. Crack the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Finally, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips to distribute them evenly throughout the filling.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread it out evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly wobbles when gently shaken. This ensures a moist, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Let the baked bars cool completely at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3 hours or overnight so the cheesecake bars set fully, making slicing easier and the texture more luscious.
How to Serve Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for a classic look and light sweetness that enhances every bite. You can scatter additional mini chocolate chips or even add finely chopped pistachios for texture and a pop of green that mimics traditional cannoli decor.
Side Dishes
These bars stand out beautifully on their own, but consider pairing them with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce to balance richness with bright, natural sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, serve your Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe on a charming platter with decorative edible flowers or mint leaves. You could also cut them into bite-sized squares and place them on mini dessert forks for easy sharing and an elegant presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the crust crisp and the filling creamy without drying out.
Freezing
Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for freezer storage of up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to maintain perfect texture and flavor.
Reheating
These cheesecake bars are delicious chilled, but if you prefer them slightly warm, pop them in a microwave for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as the texture can become too soft.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of ricotta?
This recipe actually uses both cream cheese and ricotta for the perfect texture. Using only cream cheese will change the texture, making it denser. Ricotta lightens the filling and adds that authentic cannoli feel.
Is orange zest necessary in the recipe?
No, the orange zest is optional but highly recommended because it adds a fresh citrus note that cuts through the richness nicely. If you’re not a fan of citrus, feel free to leave it out.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crumbs or finely crushed gluten-free cookies. The rest of the recipe remains the same and just as delicious.
How long does it take to chill these bars properly?
For best results, chill the bars for at least 3 hours or overnight. This allows the filling to set fully and makes slicing cleaner and neater.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Absolutely! Chopped pistachios or toasted almonds folded into the filling or sprinkled on top add wonderful crunch and extra flavor that pairs well with the cheesecake filling.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a special celebration but is simple enough to make any day, give this Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe a try. It’s a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Trust me, once you taste that creamy filling with the crunchy crust, you’ll want to make these bars again and again!
Print
Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus 2 hours chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Cannoli Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of classic cannoli filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust and chocolate chips, all baked into easy-to-serve bars. These delightful treats have the tangy ricotta and cream cheese texture enhanced with a touch of vanilla and orange zest, perfect for parties or a decadent dessert.
Ingredients
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
For Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Additional mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until combined. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking pan to form the crust.
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add both sugars, vanilla extract, and orange zest if using, and continue to beat until combined. Blend in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the filling mixture over the prepared crust, spreading evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set and chilled.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips if desired. Cut into 12 bars and enjoy your creamy, chocolate-studded cannoli cheesecake bars.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
- Orange zest is optional but adds a fresh citrus flavor reminiscent of traditional cannoli filling.
- Refrigerating the bars overnight improves flavor and texture.
- You can substitute mini chocolate chips with chopped dark or white chocolate if preferred.
- Keep bars refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for freshness.
