Picture this: you’re hosting a gathering, and the table is filled with delicious treats, but there’s one dessert everyone is raving about—my Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars. With their creamy ricotta filling and a touch of tangy cheesecake flavor, these bars capture the essence of traditional cannoli, but without the fuss. As I took my first bite, I was delighted by the buttery graham cracker crust and the satisfying crunch of mini chocolate chips, a secret that makes these sweet bars truly irresistible.
What’s even better? You can whip up this indulgent dessert in just 15 minutes! Perfect for those who crave homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen, these bars deliver on both flavor and charm. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight treat or a show-stopping finale for your next dinner party, I promise, they will have everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring a taste of Italy right into your home!
Why are Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars a Must-Try?
Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, these bars will be ready to wow your guests in no time.
Luscious flavor: The creamy ricotta combined with rich cheesecake creates a flavor that’s fresh and indulgent, reminiscent of your favorite Italian pastries.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, everyone from kids to dessert enthusiasts will love this unique treat.
Versatile: Feel free to personalize! Add citrus zest or extra chocolate chips to make it your own.
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out my fantastic no-bake desserts collection.
Make-ahead option: These bars can be prepared in advance, allowing you more time to enjoy with family and friends!
Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
- Graham Cracker Crumbs – Provides the sturdy base for the bars; substitute with almond flour for a gluten-free version (1 1/4 cups with 2 tbsp sugar).
- Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness in both the crust and the filling; standard sugar is best for flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (melted) – Binds the crust together while adding richness; ensure it’s melted evenly for a smooth mix.
For the Filling
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese – Essential for a creamy texture; using cold cream cheese may result in lumps. Opt for full-fat for an indulgent taste.
- Large Eggs – Adds richness and structure; remember to add them one at a time to maintain a silky texture.
- Ricotta Cheese – Essential for that classic cannoli flavor; keep it smooth for the best results. Dairy-free options like coconut cream cheese can also work here.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; I recommend using pure vanilla for the richest taste.
- Mini Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and delightful crunch; mini chips distribute better throughout the filling and won’t sink like regular ones.
Feel free to get creative with these ingredients! These Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Happy baking!
How to Make Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars
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Prepare the Crust: Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into a lined baking pan, creating a slight lip around the edges for the filling to sit nicely.
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Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Gently fold in the ricotta and mini chocolate chips until just combined.
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Bake: Pour the luscious filling over your prepared crust and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle—just the way you want your cheesecake.
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Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool down to room temperature, which should take about 1 hour. Then, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal for the best flavor and texture.
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Serve: Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a stunning finish that will impress your guests.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Variations
Feel free to play with these delightful variations and make the recipe your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with almond flour mixed with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Perfect for gluten-sensitive friends!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream cheese and almond milk ricotta for a delicious dairy-free version. The flavor will still shine through!
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Citrus Zest: Add fresh orange or lemon zest to the filling for a zesty twist. It brightens up the flavor beautifully!
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts for an added crunch. They’ll lend a delightful texture and taste!
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Chocolate Swirl: For chocolate lovers, swirl in some melted chocolate into the filling before baking. Pure chocolate bliss in every bite!
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Decadent Topping: Top with a rich chocolate ganache or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent finish. Sweet decadence elevated!
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Berry Bliss: Fold in fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to the filling before baking for a fruity punch. It adds freshness and color!
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Extra Chips: Amp up the sweetness by adding more mini chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips. Who can resist extra chocolate?
Expert Tips for Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to prevent lumps and achieve a creamy texture.
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Easy Mixing: Avoid overmixing the filling after adding ricotta; this helps keep the texture light and fluffy, making your easy cannoli cheesecake bars irresistible.
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Prevent Cracks: To avoid cracks on the surface, cool the bars gradually. Turn off the oven and open the door slightly for the first 30 minutes after baking.
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Chill Time is Key: Allow the bars to sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor and firm texture.
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Serving Temperature: Let your bars sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. This enhances their texture and flavor, making every bite memorable!
What to Serve with Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful accompaniments that complement the rich flavors of these indulgent bars.
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Espresso: The boldness of espresso cuts through the richness of the cheesecake, offering a perfect, sophisticated pairing. Sipping this after your meal enhances the sweet finale.
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Fresh Berries: Sweet, tart, and vibrant, fresh berries add a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the bars. A handful of strawberries or raspberries not only looks beautiful but also provides a burst of fruity flavor.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream on top adds a touch of luxury and balances the richness of the cannoli cheesecake. For an extra treat, try infusing it with a hint of vanilla or almond extract.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the bars enriches their flavor while doubling as a visual delight. The combination of chocolate with the creamy filling enhances the indulgent experience.
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Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can be a refreshing touch alongside your dessert. Their bright flavor adds a lovely contrast and elevates the presentation for a more elegant look.
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Aged Port Wine: For those who appreciate dessert wines, a sip of aged port can elevate the experience. Its rich sweetness pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake flavors, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Chocolate-Covered Almonds: Crunchy and sweet, these delightful bites can serve as a fun and textured contrast to the smooth cheesecake. They add an enjoyable crunch with every nibble.
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Coconut Sorbet: This dairy-free option acts as a refreshing palate cleanser while bringing a tropical flair to your dessert table. Its lightness complements the richness beautifully.
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Amaretto Liqueur: A splash of amaretto served alongside enhances the almond notes in the filling, enriching the experience with a deeper layer of flavor that feels luxurious.
These pairings will surely create a memorable dessert experience that draws everyone in for seconds!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars
Fridge: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake bars tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars overnight in the fridge. This keeps them creamy and flavorful, just like fresh.
Reheating: If desired, you can slightly warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enhance the rich flavors of the Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who appreciate making desserts in advance! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours ahead—just store it tightly wrapped in the fridge to maintain its crunchiness. Additionally, the cheesecake filling can be made a day in advance; simply cover the prepared batter and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, pour the filling over the crust and bake as directed. To ensure the bars remain delightful, allow them to cool completely and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (ideally overnight) before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy a stress-free dessert treat that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of graham cracker crumbs should I use?
I recommend using standard graham cracker crumbs to create a sturdy base for your dessert. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour works wonderfully! Just mix 1 1/4 cups of almond flour with 2 tablespoons of sugar for an equally delicious crust.
How should I store leftover cheesecake bars?
To keep your Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their delightful texture and flavor, allowing you to indulge whenever the craving strikes!
Can I freeze the cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze the bars tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge to keep them creamy and delicious. Easy and convenient!
What if my filling turns out lumpy?
No worries! Lumpy filling usually happens if the cream cheese is too cold. Always allow it to soften to room temperature before mixing. If lumps persist, you can use an electric mixer to blend it further, ensuring it’s perfectly smooth and creamy.
Are there dietary restrictions I should consider?
When preparing these Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars, be mindful of common allergens such as gluten (if not using gluten-free crumbs) and dairy. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream cheese mixed with strained almond milk ricotta for a lethal balance of creaminess and flavor.
How can I enhance the flavor of my cheesecake bars?
Feel free to mix in citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a hint of brightness that complements the creamy filling beautifully. You can also sprinkle more mini chocolate chips on top before serving for additional texture and sweetness!
Easy Cannoli Cheesecake Bars: No-Bake Delight in 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into a lined baking pan, creating a slight lip.
- Make the Filling: Beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, then fold in the ricotta and mini chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour the filling over the crust and bake at 325°F for 40-45 minutes until edges are set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Let cool to room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.