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Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

These Cannoli Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy ricotta filling of traditional cannoli with the richness of cheesecake, all on a buttery graham cracker crust. An Italian-inspired dessert that's easy to make and perfect for sharing.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese well-drained
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp orange zest or lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips
  • powdered sugar for dusting, optional
  • crushed pistachios optional garnish

Equipment

  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham crumbs, butter, and sugar. Press into greased 9x13-inch pan. Bake 8 minutes, cool.
  2. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add ricotta, then powdered sugar, eggs, vanilla, zest, and cinnamon. Mix until creamy. Fold in chocolate chips.
  3. Pour filling over cooled crust. Bake 35–40 minutes until center is just set. Cool completely.
  4. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Slice into bars and dust with powdered sugar.
  5. Garnish with extra chocolate chips or pistachios if desired.

Notes

Drain ricotta well to prevent excess moisture. Chill overnight for best flavor and texture. Crust can be made with biscotti or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers.