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Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Emily

Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

These decadent Cannoli Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy ricotta filling, and a touch of chocolate and pistachios — the perfect Italian-inspired dessert made easy in bar form.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for crust)
  • 16 oz ricotta cheese
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
  • 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
  • extra chocolate chips and pistachios for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x9-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until evenly coated and press firmly into the prepared pan to form the crust.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat ricotta cheese, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Fold in mini chocolate chips and pistachios, if using.
  4. Spread the filling evenly over the crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Let cool, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
  5. Lift cheesecake out of pan using parchment. Cut into bars and top with whipped cream, chocolate chips, and pistachios.

Notes

Chill the bars overnight for the best texture. Swap pistachios with chopped almonds or leave them out if preferred. For a lighter version, use part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat cream cheese.