Cannoli Cheesecake Bars – Best Recipe You’ll Try

Cannoli Cheesecake Bars bring together the rich, creamy filling of a traditional Italian cannoli with the indulgent, velvety smoothness of cheesecake, all on top of a golden graham cracker crust. This dessert is not only decadent but also convenient — baked in a pan and sliced into bars, making it perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or craving a luxurious treat, these Cannoli Cheesecake Bars promise to deliver all the flavors of a classic cannoli in a format that’s easy to serve and impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love These Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

These Cannoli Cheesecake Bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of texture and flavor. The creamy blend of ricotta and cream cheese mirrors the authentic cannoli filling, while the graham cracker crust provides a crisp, buttery base that holds everything together. Mini chocolate chips add pops of sweetness throughout, and a dusting of powdered sugar offers a beautiful finish. They’re elegant enough for a party but simple enough for weeknight baking.

Highlights:

• Creamy ricotta filling enhanced with almond and vanilla
• Buttery graham cracker base
• Crowd-pleasing and easy to slice
• A modern twist on a traditional Italian dessert

What You’ll Need for the Best Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Add structure and a buttery crunch to the base
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the crust and cheesecake layer
• Unsalted Butter: Binds the crumbs and enhances flavor
• Cream Cheese: Offers richness and a smooth cheesecake consistency
• Ricotta Cheese: Brings a traditional cannoli texture and lightness
• Eggs: Help set the cheesecake and add moisture
• Vanilla Extract: Provides warmth and depth
• Almond Extract: Enhances the nutty, authentic cannoli flavor
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Provide little bursts of chocolate throughout
• Powdered Sugar: Finishes the bars with a sweet, elegant touch

Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions

• Crust Alternatives: Swap graham crackers with crushed biscotti or vanilla wafers for a unique twist
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and ricotta alternatives (note: texture may vary)
• Nut-Free Version: Omit almond extract and avoid pistachios in garnishes
• Low-Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol in both layers
• Ricotta Substitute: Mascarpone cheese can be used for a richer, creamier version

How to Make Cannoli Cheesecake Bars Step-by-Step

1. Prep the Pan
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides for lifting later.
2. Make the Crust
   In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.
3. Create the Cheesecake Filling
   In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Add Ricotta and Chocolate Chips
   Fold in ricotta cheese until fully blended. Gently mix in mini chocolate chips for that classic cannoli flavor burst.
5. Assemble and Bake
   Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are firm but the center still jiggles slightly.
6. Gradual Cooling
   Turn off the oven and leave the bars inside for 1 hour. This gradual cooling prevents cracks on the surface.
7. Chill to Set
   Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the bars to firm up for clean slicing.
8. Slice and Garnish
   Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out. Dust with powdered sugar and, if desired, sprinkle crushed pistachios or drizzle with chocolate ganache.

Expert Tips for Flawless Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Prevents lumps in the batter for a smooth, creamy texture
• Don’t Overbake: Slight jiggle in the center means it’s done. Overbaking leads to dryness and cracking
• Cool Gradually: Sudden temperature changes cause cracks. Keep the oven door closed after baking
• Firm Crust: Press the crust mixture tightly into the pan so it doesn’t crumble when sliced
• Cut Clean Bars: Dip your knife in warm water and wipe between cuts for bakery-style slices

Delicious Pairings and Serving Variations

• With Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add freshness and color
• Espresso or Cappuccino: A natural Italian pairing to balance the sweetness
• Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Melt equal parts heavy cream and chocolate for a luxurious topping
• Holiday Version: Add chopped candied orange peel or sprinkle crushed pistachios for a festive flair
• Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free graham crackers for the crust

Seasonal Charm and Occasion Ideas

These bars are ideal for holiday baking, spring brunches, or as a refreshing summer treat when served chilled. The ricotta and optional lemon zest bring brightness to colder months, while the chocolate and creamy filling offer indulgence perfect for winter desserts. Plus, since they store well, you can prepare them ahead for parties, potlucks, or weeknight cravings.

How to Store and Freeze Your Bars

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freezer: Freeze individual bars on a baking sheet, then layer with parchment in a sealed container; good for 2 months
• Thawing: Defrost overnight in the fridge for best texture
• Avoid Moisture: Always wrap tightly with plastic wrap or use airtight containers to prevent sogginess

Conclusion

Cannoli Cheesecake Bars are a delicious way to blend two classic desserts—cannoli and cheesecake—into one unforgettable treat. With their creamy, ricotta-based filling, chocolate chip bursts, and buttery graham cracker crust, these bars deliver indulgent flavor in every bite. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or casual gatherings, they’re easy to prepare ahead and serve in beautiful slices. Whether you’re honoring Italian culinary traditions or just looking for a standout dessert, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Serve them chilled with espresso, dress them up with ganache, or keep them classic with a dusting of powdered sugar—no matter how you enjoy them, Cannoli Cheesecake Bars are always a sweet success.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Mini Orange Cheesecakes: These adorable mini cheesecakes are infused with bright citrus flavor and feature a smooth cream cheese filling, making them a delightful cousin to Cannoli Cheesecake Bars with a refreshing twist.
• Chocolate Lasagna (No-Bake Dessert): This layered dessert is creamy, chocolatey, and easy to make — much like Cannoli Cheesecake Bars. With layers of pudding, cream cheese, and whipped topping on a cookie crust, it’s perfect for lovers of rich, no-fuss treats.
• Raspberry Cheesecake Truffles: These bite-sized truffles deliver a punch of cheesecake flavor wrapped in white chocolate and raspberry — offering a fruity, creamy alternative to the bar-style Cannoli Cheesecake Bars.

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