Name: Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars That Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 300 min
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups crushed graham crackers (substitute with almond flour (1 1/4 cups mixed with 2 tbsp sugar) for gluten-free); 2 tbsp sugar (sweetens both the crust and filling); 1/2 cup butter (melted); 8 oz cream cheese (at room temperature); 15 oz ricotta cheese (or strained almond milk ricotta for dairy-free); 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (to help keep them from sinking in the batter)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of melted chocolate and ricotta began to weave its magic around me. This is exactly the moment when these Cannoli Cheesecake Bars burst onto my dessert radar, transforming my cravings into a quick and easy treat. With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, these bars bring you the luscious creaminess of cheesecake nestled between a crunchy graham cracker crust, making them the perfect crowd-pleaser. Plus, their delightful flavor profile has that classic Italian cannoli twist that will leave your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering, these bars are sure to impress. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Why are these Cannoli Cheesecake Bars a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of creamy ricotta and cheesecake creates a decadent dessert bursting with sweet, tangy goodness.

Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, you can whip up a stunning treat that doesn’t require advanced baking skills. Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!

Crowd-Pleaser: These bars are sure to wow both family and friends, making them ideal for gatherings or cozy dinners.

Customizable: With options to go gluten-free or dairy-free, you can tailor the recipe to fit any dietary needs. Explore variations like adding a touch of orange zest or swirling in chocolate for extra flair.

Visual Appeal: Each slice showcases a beautiful layering of textures and colors that will impress anyone at your table. 원 Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake and Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake are also fantastic options to consider!

Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Ingredients

For the Crust

Graham Crackers – Provides structure and crunch; for gluten-free, substitute with almond flour (1 1/4 cups mixed with 2 tbsp sugar).
Sugar – Sweetens both the crust and filling for delightful balance.
Butter – Adds richness and helps bind the crust together; melt it for better mixing.

For the Filling

Cream Cheese – Offers a creamy texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth blending.
Ricotta Cheese – Key ingredient giving that classic cannoli flavor; substitute with strained almond milk ricotta for a dairy-free option.
Eggs – Acts as a binder and adds structure to the filling.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile and sweetness.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Provides delightful bursts of chocolate; recommended to help keep them from sinking in the batter.

With this wonderful lineup of ingredients, your Cannoli Cheesecake Bars will shine, making dessert time an unforgettable experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, ensuring it’s even and slightly pressed up the sides for added structure.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese and sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then blend in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese and mini chocolate chips until just combined, ensuring not to overmix for a light filling in your Cannoli Cheesecake Bars.

Step 3: Bake the Bars
Pour the creamy filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when gently shaken. Keep an eye out for browning; a light golden top is ideal.

Step 4: Cool
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. This cooling process helps set the filling. After an hour, cover the bars and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to ensure they firm up beautifully.

Step 5: Serve
When ready to serve, dust the chilled Cannoli Cheesecake Bars with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Cut into squares or rectangles, and delight your family and friends with this rich dessert that beautifully marries the flavors of cannoli with creamy cheesecake goodness.

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What to Serve with Cannoli Cheesecake Bars?

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these creamy and delectable bars with delightful accompaniments.

Fresh Berries: Adds a burst of color and tartness that balances the richness of the cheesecake bars beautifully. Serve blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries on the side for a refreshing touch.
Espresso or Coffee: The bold, rich flavors of coffee provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet, creamy dessert. A warm cup can elevate your dessert enjoyment to new heights.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an airy lightness, enhancing each bite’s texture. Consider flavoring it with a hint of vanilla or almond extract for extra flair.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the bars for additional decadence. This luscious addition complements the mini chocolate chips already in the recipe.
Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of lemon sorbet brings a refreshing citrus note that cuts through the sweetness, offering a delightful palate cleanser between bites.
Pistachio Crumble: Adding a sprinkle of crushed pistachios introduces a lovely crunch and a hint of nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling.
Prosecco: This bubbly wine’s light sweetness and crispness make it an excellent pairing, mirroring the celebratory spirit of these delightful Cannoli Cheesecake Bars.
Orange Zest Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh orange zest on top of each bar to add a zesty brightness that enhances the overall flavor experience.

Storage Tips for Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will preserve the creamy filling and prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn, and label them for easy identification.

Thawing: Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Avoid microwaving directly, as this can affect the texture of your Cannoli Cheesecake Bars.

Reheating: If desired, reheat individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm slice, but be cautious as overheating can lead to a runny filling.

Expert Tips for Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

Room Temperature Cheese: Ensure both the cream cheese and ricotta are at room temperature. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth filling for your Cannoli Cheesecake Bars.
Don’t Overmix: After adding the ricotta and chocolate chips, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense filling instead of the light, creamy texture we love.
Keep an Eye on Baking: Watch closely to prevent overbaking, which can cause cracks. Bake until edges set and the center jiggles slightly; a light golden top is perfect.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This helps the flavors meld and the texture to firm up beautifully.
Creative Toppings: Feel free to enhance your bars with toppings. Sprinkling extra mini chocolate chips or a bit of orange zest before serving can add a delightful twist!

Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Variations

Feel free to explore these tantalizing twists on your Cannoli Cheesecake Bars to ignite your creativity!

Gluten-Free: Substitute graham crackers with almond flour mixed with sugar for a gluten-free crust without sacrificing taste.
Dairy-Free: Use strained almond milk ricotta instead of regular ricotta and dairy-free cream cheese for a delightful dairy-free version.
Chocolate Delight: For an indulgent twist, swirl in melted chocolate into the filling before baking, satisfying those chocolate cravings!
Zesty Lemon: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for a fresh citrus flavor that beautifully complements the creamy cheesecake.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pistachios or walnuts into the filling for an unexpected crunch that enhances the texture!
Orange Surprise: Top with a sprinkle of orange zest right before serving to brighten the flavor and add a refreshing finish.
Decadent Toppings: Enhance each slice with a drizzle of chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream, making dessert time even more special.
No-Bake Option: For a lighter summer treat, transform this recipe into a no-bake version by using a no-bake graham cracker crust and chilling the mixture for a creamy delight.

No matter how you choose to customize them, these Cannoli Cheesecake Bars are bound to impress. And if you’re looking for more delightful cheesecake inspirations, check out my Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake or indulge in a rich Biscoff Cheesecake!

Make Ahead Options

These Cannoli Cheesecake Bars are a true time-saver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, then pressing it into the pan. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can mix the filling (cream cheese, ricotta, eggs, sugar, and chocolate chips) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just remember to let your filling come to room temperature before combining with the crust and baking for best results. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy divine Cannoli Cheesecake Bars with minimal stress on the day you plan to serve them!

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Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of graham crackers should I use for the crust?
I recommend using traditional graham crackers, as they provide the ideal structure and crunch. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour is a great substitute! Combine 1 1/4 cups of almond flour with 2 tablespoons of sugar for a delicious alternative that holds up beautifully.

How should I store leftover Cannoli Cheesecake Bars?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This method preserves their creamy texture and flavor. For longer storage, you can freeze individual bars for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn, and be sure to label them for ease of identification.

Can I freeze Cannoli Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, cut the cooled bars into individual servings and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

What should I do if my filling seems runny?
If your filling appears runny, don’t worry! A quick solution is to chill the mixture for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps it firm up slightly. Additionally, ensure that all your ingredients are at the right temperature—room temperature for cream cheese and ricotta helps avoid this issue.

Are there any dietary considerations for Cannoli Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, absolutely! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can make these bars gluten-free by using almond flour in the crust. For dairy-free options, substitute the ricotta with strained almond milk ricotta. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens, especially for mini chocolate chips, as some brands may contain gluten or dairy.