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Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars That Wow Your Guests

These Cannoli Cheesecake Bars combine creamy ricotta and cheesecake in a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 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
For the Filling
  • 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

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric Mixer
  • Baking pan
  • Spatula
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. 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 8x8 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. After an hour, cover the bars and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to ensure they firm up beautifully.
  5. When ready to serve, dust the chilled Cannoli Cheesecake Bars with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure both the cream cheese and ricotta are at room temperature for a smooth filling. Avoid overmixing after adding the ricotta and chocolate chips to keep the texture light and creamy.

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