Cannoli Cheesecake Bars
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Mixing Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 20 minutes
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Recipe Intensity: Moderate
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cannoli Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 15 ounces (425g) whole milk ricotta cheese
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup mini chocolate chips
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Mini chocolate chips
- Chopped pistachios
- Orange zest
- Melted chocolate drizzle
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Time: 5 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Preheat your oven to:
325°F (163°C)
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Lightly grease the parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Time: 10 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
In a medium bowl combine:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Melted butter
Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.
Bake for 10 minutes.
Remove and allow to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Time: 10 Minutes
Intensity: Moderate
In a large bowl beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add:
- Ricotta cheese
- Sugar
Continue mixing until fully combined.
The mixture should be smooth without lumps.
Step 4: Add Flavorings
Time: 5 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Mix in:
- Vanilla extract
- Almond extract
- Orange zest
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Blend until evenly incorporated.
These ingredients create the signature cannoli flavor profile.
Step 5: Add the Eggs
Time: 3 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Add the eggs one at a time.
Mix on low speed after each addition.
Avoid overmixing, which can introduce excess air and cause cracking.
The filling should be silky and smooth.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Time: 2 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Distribute evenly throughout the filling.
Step 7: Assemble the Bars
Time: 3 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust.
Spread evenly using a spatula.
Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Step 8: Bake
Time: 40–45 Minutes
Intensity: Moderate
Bake on the center rack until:
- The edges are set
- The center has a slight jiggle
- The top appears lightly golden
Do not overbake.
The cheesecake will continue to firm as it cools.
Step 9: Cool
Time: 1 Hour
Intensity: Easy
Remove from the oven.
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature.
Cooling gradually helps prevent cracks and improves texture.
Step 10: Chill
Time: 4 Hours Minimum
Intensity: Easy
Transfer the cooled pan to the refrigerator.
Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
The cheesecake will fully set and become easier to slice.
Step 11: Add Toppings
Time: 5 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Before serving, garnish with:
- Powdered sugar
- Mini chocolate chips
- Chopped pistachios
- Orange zest
- Chocolate drizzle
These toppings add visual appeal and enhance the cannoli-inspired flavor.
Step 12: Slice and Serve
Time: 5 Minutes
Intensity: Easy
Lift the cheesecake from the pan using the parchment paper.
Place on a cutting board.
Use a sharp knife to cut into 16 bars.
For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
Tips for Success
Drain Ricotta if Necessary
If your ricotta contains excess moisture, drain it in a fine mesh strainer for 30 minutes before using.
This helps create a thicker filling.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Softened cream cheese and room-temperature eggs mix more smoothly and reduce lumps.
Avoid Overmixing
Too much mixing can introduce excess air, leading to cracks.
Mix only until ingredients are combined.
Chill Thoroughly
The longer the bars chill, the better their texture and flavor.
Overnight chilling often yields the best results.
Flavor Variations
Chocolate Cannoli Cheesecake Bars
Add:
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- Extra chocolate chips
Creates a richer chocolate flavor.
Pistachio Cannoli Bars
Add:
- ½ cup finely chopped pistachios
Provides additional texture and authentic Italian flavor.
Espresso Cannoli Cheesecake Bars
Add:
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
Enhances the richness of the filling.
Lemon Cannoli Bars
Replace orange zest with lemon zest for a brighter citrus note.
Serving Suggestions
These bars pair beautifully with:
- Espresso
- Cappuccino
- Coffee
- Tea
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
Serve chilled for the best texture.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer
Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
While this dessert is intended as an indulgent treat, it also provides:
Protein
Ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and eggs contribute protein.
Calcium
Dairy ingredients provide calcium for bone health.
Energy
A balanced combination of carbohydrates and fats provides satisfying richness.
Portion-Friendly
Bar format makes portion control simple.
Nutrition Information
Per Bar (Based on 16 Servings)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugars: 16g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Calcium: 110mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Potassium: 120mg
