Description
These Cannoli Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet, crunchy texture of cannoli-inspired ingredients. Featuring a spiced graham cracker crust, a smooth ricotta and cream cheese filling enhanced with vanilla and orange zest, and studded with mini chocolate chips, these bars are an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion.
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
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, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan to form the crust.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest; mix well to combine. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. Remove from oven and let cool completely to room temperature.
- Chill the bars: Once cooled, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to allow the bars to firm up properly.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips if desired. Cut into 12 bars and enjoy this rich, cannoli-inspired treat.
Notes
- You can omit the orange zest if you prefer a more traditional flavor.
- For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped pistachios on top.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Use mini chocolate chips for even distribution throughout the bars.
- Store leftover bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
