Cannoli Cheesecake

Introduction

Cannoli Cheesecake is a decadent fusion of two beloved Italian desserts: cannoli and cheesecake. This creamy cheesecake is topped with a sweet, ricotta-based filling and studded with chocolate chips, mimicking the delicious flavors of a traditional cannoli. The graham cracker crust provides a buttery, slightly crunchy base, while the smooth, tangy filling offers a rich, satisfying texture.

I first made this dish for a holiday dinner, and it quickly became a favorite in our household. The rich, creamy filling paired with the sweetness of the ricotta and the crunch of the crust is a combination that never fails to impress. What’s great about Cannoli Cheesecake is that it’s easy to make yet feels incredibly special. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating with family or looking for a show-stopping dessert for guests. A few simple ingredients come together to create something truly extraordinary!

Perfect for:

• Holiday celebrations
• Special occasions
• Dinner parties
• Dessert lovers
• Cheesecake enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Cannoli Cheesecake

Here’s why Cannoli Cheesecake will become your new favorite dessert:

• Creamy and Rich: The cheesecake filling is velvety smooth and perfectly sweetened, with a tangy richness from the cream cheese and mascarpone.
• Cannoli-Inspired Flavor: The addition of ricotta cheese and mini chocolate chips captures the signature taste of a cannoli.
• Flaky Graham Crust: The graham cracker crust adds a nice balance to the rich filling, with a slightly sweet and buttery crunch.
• Easy to Make: This cheesecake is simpler to prepare than a traditional cannoli, with an easy-to-follow recipe that requires no frying or special techniques.
• Customizable Topping: You can top your cheesecake with whipped cream, extra chocolate chips, or even candied orange peel for extra flair.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 3 hours
• Servings: 12-14 slices
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cannoli Cheesecake:

Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese, drained
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips
• Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Topping:

• Whipped cream (optional)
• Extra mini chocolate chips (optional)
• Candied orange peel (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds a creamy, slightly grainy texture and subtle sweetness that enhances the cheesecake filling.
• Mascarpone Cheese: Mascarpone contributes richness and a velvety smooth texture, making the filling extra luxurious.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: These provide the signature chocolatey touch of a cannoli, giving the cheesecake a delightful contrast of sweetness.
• Graham Cracker Crust: The crunchy, sweet crust acts as the perfect base for the rich and creamy filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cannoli Cheesecake:

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined and has a wet sand-like texture.
3. Press the Crust: Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, ensuring an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat surface to press it down well.
4. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, until it’s golden and slightly firm. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

5. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, and ricotta cheese together until smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to ensure there are no lumps.
6. Add Sugar and Flavors: Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to the cheese mixture. Beat until fully combined and smooth.
7. Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix; just mix until the eggs are fully incorporated.
8. Add the Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and orange zest (if using) into the cheesecake batter.

Bake the Cheesecake:

9. Pour the Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
10. Bake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. The top may appear slightly cracked, which is normal.
11. Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour. Then, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to allow it to fully set.

Serve:

12. Garnish and Serve: Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Garnish with whipped cream, extra mini chocolate chips, or candied orange peel if desired. Slice and serve!

How to Serve Cannoli Cheesecake

Cannoli Cheesecake is a versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments:

• With a Cup of Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavor of the cheesecake pairs perfectly with a strong coffee or espresso for a delightful after-dinner treat.
• With Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, complement the sweet richness of the cheesecake and add a refreshing contrast.
• As a Celebration Dessert: Serve this cheesecake at birthday parties, holidays, or special family gatherings to impress your guests.
• With Extra Toppings: For added flair, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream, extra chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.

Additional Tips for Cannoli Cheesecake

Here are some tips to ensure your Cannoli Cheesecake is perfect every time:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, mascarpone, and ricotta cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth and lump-free filling.
• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can cause the cheesecake to crack, so mix just until everything is well combined.
• Prevent Cracking: To prevent cracks, you can bake the cheesecake in a water bath. Place the springform pan in a larger pan and add hot water to the outer pan, making sure it comes halfway up the sides of the cheesecake.
• Chill Before Serving: Be sure to refrigerate the cheesecake for several hours, or overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop its flavors.
• Cover the Cheesecake: When storing the cheesecake, cover it with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Recipe Variations for Cannoli Cheesecake

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cannoli Cheesecake:

• Chocolate Cannoli Cheesecake: Add cocoa powder to the filling for a chocolatey twist on this classic dessert.
• Lemon Cannoli Cheesecake: Incorporate lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice into the filling for a tangy citrus variation.
• Mini Cannoli Cheesecakes: Make individual servings by dividing the crust and filling into mini springform pans or muffin tins.
• Caramel Cannoli Cheesecake: Drizzle the cheesecake with caramel sauce and top with crushed toffee bits for a sweet and salty contrast.
• Baked Cannoli Cheesecake: Instead of using a no-bake crust, create a baked crust using crushed cannoli shells for an even more authentic taste.
• Nutty Cannoli Cheesecake: Fold chopped pistachios, hazelnuts, or almonds into the filling for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Cannoli Cheesecake: Add extra chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate into the cheesecake filling for an extra chocolaty dessert.
• Fruit Topped Cannoli Cheesecake: Top the cheesecake with fresh fruit like strawberries, cherries, or figs for a refreshing contrast.
• Nutella Cannoli Cheesecake: Swirl Nutella into the filling for a hazelnut-chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the ricotta.
• Tiramisu Cannoli Cheesecake: Add espresso powder to the crust and filling for a tiramisu-inspired variation with a cannoli twist.

Freezing and Storage for Cannoli Cheesecake

• Freezing: To freeze the cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment for Cannoli Cheesecake

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cannoli Cheesecake easier:

Springform Pan: A springform pan makes it easy to remove the cheesecake without damaging it.

Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer is helpful to beat the cheeses and create a smooth filling.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the cheesecake turns out perfectly every time.

Spatula: Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly and to scrape the bowl clean.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cannoli Cheesecake

1. Can I use a regular cheesecake crust instead of graham cracker crust?
   Yes, you can use a traditional cheesecake crust made from crushed cookies or nuts.
2. Can I make the cheesecake ahead of time?
   Yes, this cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
3. Can I use store-bought ricotta cheese?
   Yes, just make sure to drain the ricotta before using it in the filling to avoid excess moisture.
4. Can I add more chocolate chips?
   Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of chocolate chips to suit your preference.
5. Can I substitute mascarpone cheese?
   If you can’t find mascarpone, you can substitute with cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

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Conclusion

Cannoli Cheesecake is the perfect blend of two classic desserts, combining the creamy, indulgent filling of cheesecake with the sweet, ricotta-based charm of cannoli. With its crunchy graham cracker crust and rich, flavorful interior, this dessert is both impressive and irresistibly delicious. Top it with mini chocolate chips, powdered sugar, or crushed cannoli shells for an authentic touch that will transport you straight to an Italian bakery.

This recipe is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat, making it an excellent choice for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you want to indulge in something special. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself, Cannoli Cheesecake is a dessert that’s sure to impress.

I’d love to see how your Cannoli Cheesecake turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!