Description
Easy Cannoli Cheesecake combines the creamy smoothness of cheesecake with the traditional flavors and crunchy texture of Italian cannoli, creating a quick, versatile, and irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Filling
- Cream cheese – 16 oz (softened to room temperature)
- Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
- Whipped cream or heavy cream – 1 cup
- Sugar – 3/4 cup
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
Cannoli Elements
- Cannoli shell pieces or crushed waffle cones – 1/2 cup
- Mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate – 1/3 cup
- Optional cinnamon or citrus zest – 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Crust
- Pre-made graham cracker or cookie crust – 9 inch springform pan size
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Start by pressing your choice of graham cracker or cookie crust into the bottom of your springform pan or dessert dish, making sure it’s even and compact to support the creamy filling later on.
- Mix the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, blend together softened cream cheese and ricotta until smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and creamy.
- Whip the cream: Whip your heavy cream or whipped topping until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cheese mixture to create a light, airy texture.
- Incorporate cannoli elements: Fold in mini chocolate chips and crushed cannoli shells or waffle cones, along with optional cinnamon or citrus zest, for that signature crunch and flavor punch.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the filling over your crust in the pan, smooth the top evenly, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set perfectly.
Notes
- Use room temperature cheese to blend ingredients smoothly for a creamy texture without lumps.
- Don’t overmix; fold ingredients gently to maintain fluffy cheesecake body, especially when combining whipped cream.
- Chill long enough for the cheesecake to firm up and flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add shell crunch last to keep cannoli shell pieces crisp.
- Use a springform pan to make removal hassle-free and keep the cheesecake intact.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx.)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: cannoli cheesecake, easy cheesecake, no-bake dessert, Italian dessert, creamy cheesecake, crunchy dessert