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Creamy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

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These creamy cannoli cheesecake bars combine the classic flavors of ricotta and cream cheese with a crunchy graham cracker crust and mini chocolate chips for a delicious Italian-inspired dessert that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • Chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated and press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake crust for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and clean mixing bowl.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add ¾ cup sugar and beat until combined.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  7. Stir in vanilla extract and ground cinnamon until just combined.
  8. Fold in mini chocolate chips gently with a spatula.
  9. Pour filling over pre-baked crust and spread evenly. Tap pan gently to release air bubbles.
  10. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 35-40 minutes until edges are set but center slightly wobbly.
  11. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack, then chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  12. Before serving, lift bars out using parchment overhang, dust with powdered sugar, and sprinkle chopped pistachios if desired. Cut into squares with a sharp knife.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese, ricotta, and eggs for smooth batter. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks. Press crust firmly to avoid crumbling. Check baking time carefully; center should wobble slightly. Chill bars overnight for best texture and flavor. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water for clean cuts. Variations include gluten-free crust with almond flour, dairy-free alternatives, and adding fresh berries or candied orange peel.

Nutrition

Keywords: cannoli, cheesecake bars, Italian dessert, creamy cheesecake, ricotta, easy dessert, chocolate chips, graham cracker crust

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