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
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
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.
