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Easy Cannoli Cheesecake

Easy Cannoli Cheesecake

This Easy Cannoli Cheesecake recipe perfectly blends the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet, textured delight of traditional cannoli filling. Ideal for celebrations, casual gatherings, or a special treat, it offers a unique Italian twist on the American cheesecake with simple, approachable steps.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons melted butter

For the Filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese, room temperature
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips

Optional Toppings

  • Ricotta or mascarpone cheese for dollops
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Extra mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts (such as pistachios)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this evenly into the bottom of a springform pan and refrigerate while preparing the filling.
  2. Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and ricotta until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Stir in cinnamon and mini chocolate chips carefully to keep them evenly distributed.
  3. Assemble and bake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50–60 minutes until the center is almost set but slightly jiggly.
  4. Cool and chill: Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up and meld flavors.
  5. Garnish and serve: Dust with powdered sugar and add dollops of ricotta or mascarpone if desired. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or chopped nuts for presentation before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cheeses to ensure smooth blending without lumps.
  • Don’t overmix; gently fold in chocolate chips to keep their shape and texture.
  • Bake at a low temperature to avoid cracking and maintain creamy consistency.
  • Chill thoroughly for best texture and flavor development.
  • Run a knife around the pan edge after baking to prevent cracks when removing the cheesecake.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cannoli, cheesecake, Italian dessert, easy cheesecake, no crack cheesecake, ricotta cheesecake, holiday dessert, creamy dessert