Irresistible Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe in 15 Minutes Recipe
These irresistible Cannoli Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic cannoli flavors and a buttery graham cracker crust. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they bake up creamy with little pockets of ricotta and mini chocolate chips throughout. Finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar, these bars are a decadent treat you’ll want to make again and again.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets, packed tightly)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Topping
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted for dusting
Instructions
- Preparing the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly but gently into a lined pan, creating a little lip along the edges to catch the filling.
- Making the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until silky smooth, scraping down the bowl to incorporate all ingredients. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract just until combined. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese and mini chocolate chips to maintain a creamy but textured batter.
- Baking: Pour the filling over the crust and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 40-45 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Cooling: Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to ensure they set completely and develop their full flavor.
- Finishing Touches and Serving: Before serving, dust the bars with sifted powdered sugar. For cleaner slices, use a knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. Serve chilled or let bars sit at room temperature for 10 minutes for creamier texture.
Notes
- Use full-fat dairy products to avoid watery filling and ensure the best texture.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute graham cracker crumbs with almond flour mixed with sugar.
- Mini chocolate chips are preferred as they distribute evenly and don’t sink.
- Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to prevent lumps and cracking.
- Do not rush chilling time; it is crucial for clean slices and flavor development.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Keywords: Cannoli cheesecake bars, cheesecake bars, ricotta cheesecake, dessert bars, easy cheesecake recipe
