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Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

Decadent Cannoli Cheesecake Bars That Wow Every Bite

These Cannoli Cheesecake Bars blend creamy ricotta with rich cream cheese, all in a delightful graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 6 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs If desired, substitute with biscotti or vanilla wafers for a unique twist.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Ensure it's melted to mix well.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Filling
  • 16 oz cream cheese Make sure it’s softened for easy blending.
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese Tip: Drain ricotta in cheesecloth for 30 minutes before use.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp orange or lemon zest Use lemon zest for a more tart flavor if preferred.
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Optional Garnishes
  • 1 cup powdered sugar For dusting the bars before serving.
  • 1/2 cup crushed pistachios Adds flavor and texture, enhancing the presentation.

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • mixing bowl
  • electric mixer
  • spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your 9x13 inch pan by greasing it.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar until mixed. Transfer to the greased pan and press firmly. Bake for 8 minutes until golden.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add ricotta, powdered sugar, eggs, vanilla, citrus zest, and cinnamon. Mix until creamy.
  4. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed. Pour filling over the cooled crust.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center has a slight jiggle.
  6. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack for at least an hour. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight.
  7. Slice into squares or rectangles and dust with powdered sugar and crushed pistachios before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure ricotta is well-drained to prevent watery filling. Chill overnight for best flavor and texture.

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