Description
Easy Cannoli Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert blending Italian ricotta and American cream cheese flavors with crunchy cannoli shell pieces and mini chocolate chips. This no-fuss cheesecake is quick to prepare, offering a decadent and versatile treat ideal for holidays, celebrations, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 15 oz ricotta cheese, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 cup crumbled cannoli shells
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or pre-made pie crust
- Optional: 1/4 cup melted butter (if using graham cracker crumbs)
Garnishes (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Extra chopped cannoli shells
- Powdered sugar or cocoa powder
- Chopped pistachios or cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Press your chosen crust—whether graham cracker crumbs mixed with melted butter or a pre-made pie crust—firmly into the base of a springform pan, ensuring an even and compact layer for a stable foundation.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese, ricotta, and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and then the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a silky batter.
- Fold in cannoli shells and chocolate chips: Gently fold the crumbled cannoli shells and mini chocolate chips into the filling, distributing them evenly to add texture and flavor bursts.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
- Chill and garnish: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, extra chopped cannoli shells, and a dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese and ricotta are at room temperature to avoid lumps and achieve smooth batter.
- Mix ingredients just until combined to prevent cracking during baking.
- For a moist and creamy texture, consider baking in a water bath.
- Cool the cheesecake gradually at room temperature before refrigerating to minimize cracks.
- Use high-quality mini chocolate chips for the best flavor and melt.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Keywords: cannoli cheesecake, ricotta cheesecake, Italian dessert, easy cheesecake, no-bake crust, gluten free dessert, chocolate chip cheesecake