Orange Zest Ricotta Swirl Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

Get ready to experience a dessert that beautifully marries the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful crunch and flavors of cannoli! These Orange Zest Ricotta Swirl Cannoli Cheesecake Bars are a show-stopping treat, perfect for special occasions or simply indulging in a little slice of heaven. The bright citrus notes of orange zest complement the delicate ricotta and creamy cheesecake filling, all nestled on a buttery graham cracker-pistachio crust. This recipe delivers a sophisticated flavor profile with a delightful textural contrast – you won’t be able to resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 200g (1 ¾ cups) Graham Cracker Crumbs (Halal): We’re using graham cracker crumbs as the base for our crust, providing a subtly sweet and slightly spiced foundation. Ensuring they are halal caters to a wider range of dietary needs.
• 100g (1 cup) Pistachios, Finely Chopped: Pistachios add a beautiful green hue and a delightful nutty flavor to the crust. Finely chopping them ensures they bind well with the graham cracker crumbs and butter.
• 100g (7 tbsp) Unsalted Butter, Melted: Melted butter is the binding agent for the crust, holding the graham cracker crumbs and pistachios together. Using unsalted butter allows us to control the overall saltiness of the bars.
• 500g (2 cups) Cream Cheese, Softened: The star of our cheesecake filling! Cream cheese provides the rich, creamy texture that defines a classic cheesecake. Make sure it’s fully softened to avoid lumps.
• 250g (1 cup) Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta cheese is a key ingredient inspired by traditional cannoli filling. It adds a slightly grainy texture and a delicate sweetness that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
• 150g (¾ cup) Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake filling, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese and ricotta.
• 2 Large Eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to the cheesecake filling, helping it to set properly.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Alcohol‑free Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a warm and comforting note. Using alcohol-free vanilla ensures the dessert is suitable for all.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Orange Zest: Freshly grated orange zest is where the magic happens! It infuses the cheesecake with a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice amplifies the orange flavor and adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
• 2 tbsp (15g) All‑Purpose Flour: A small amount of flour helps to stabilize the cheesecake filling and prevent cracking during baking.
• 100g (3.5 oz) Dark Chocolate (Halal), Melted: A drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds a touch of indulgence and visual appeal. Choosing halal dark chocolate ensures inclusivity.
• 20g (2 tbsp) Pistachios, Coarsely Chopped – for garnish: Coarsely chopped pistachios provide a final burst of flavor and texture, adding a beautiful garnish to the finished bars.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe is designed for optimal flavor, here are a few substitutions you can make if needed:

• Graham Crackers: Digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies can be used as a substitute for graham crackers in the crust.
• Pistachios: Almonds or walnuts can be used in place of pistachios, though the flavor will be different.
• Ricotta Cheese: If you can’t find ricotta, you can use mascarpone cheese, but it will result in a richer, denser cheesecake.
• Orange Juice/Zest: Lemon juice and zest can be used as a substitute for orange, offering a different citrusy flavor.

Let’s Build These Orange Zest Ricotta Swirl Cannoli Cheesecake Bars – Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pistachios, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until all the crumbs are evenly moistened. This ensures a cohesive crust that won’t crumble when you cut into the bars.
2. Press the Crust: Transfer the crumb mixture to the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Using the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers, press the mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of the pan. A firm, even crust is crucial for supporting the rich cheesecake filling.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. This pre-baking step sets the crust, preventing it from becoming soggy when the cheesecake filling is added. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
4. Cream Cheese & Ricotta Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and granulated sugar together until completely smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps for a velvety texture. This may take a few minutes of consistent beating.
5. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporating the eggs gradually prevents overmixing, which can lead to a tough cheesecake.
6. Flavor Infusion: Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, orange juice, and flour. Mix just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; overmixing develops gluten from the flour, resulting in a less tender cheesecake.
7. Divide and Infuse: Divide the cheesecake batter in half. Leave one half plain. To the other half, add the orange zest and orange juice.
8. Swirl Magic: Spoon the plain cheesecake batter evenly over the pre-baked crust. Then, drop spoonfuls of the orange-infused batter over the plain layer. Using a thin spatula or knife, gently swirl the two batters together, creating a beautiful marbled effect. Avoid over-swirling, as this can muddy the colors.
9. Bake to Perfection: Bake the assembled cheesecake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight wobble. The wobble indicates the cheesecake is still moist and will continue to set as it cools.
10. Cooling & Drizzle: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes. While still warm, drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the top in a random, artistic pattern.
11. Garnish & Chill: Scatter the coarsely chopped pistachios over the chocolate drizzle. Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow them to fully set and the flavors to meld.
12. Cut & Serve: Cut into squares and serve. A white or marble plate enhances the visual appeal, and letting a little chocolate drizzle pool at the base adds a touch of elegance.

The Secret to a Silky Smooth Cheesecake

The key to a truly exceptional cheesecake lies in the quality of the ingredients and the technique. Using full-fat cream cheese and ricotta is non-negotiable – they provide the richness and texture that make cheesecake so decadent. Softening the cream cheese to room temperature is also vital; it ensures a smooth, lump-free batter. Gentle mixing is paramount; avoid overbeating, as this incorporates too much air and can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.

Why Orange and Ricotta are a Match Made in Heaven

The combination of orange and ricotta is a classic Italian pairing for a reason. The bright, citrusy notes of orange zest beautifully complement the mild, slightly sweet flavor of ricotta cheese. This pairing evokes the flavors of traditional Sicilian cannoli, adding a familiar yet sophisticated touch to these cheesecake bars. The orange not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant visual appeal.

Choosing the Right Chocolate Drizzle

While dark chocolate is recommended for its slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweetness of the cheesecake, feel free to experiment! Milk chocolate will create a sweeter, more approachable flavor profile. White chocolate can also be used, but it’s best paired with a different nut garnish, like toasted almonds, to provide contrast. Ensure the chocolate is halal-certified if that is a dietary requirement.

Tips for a Clean Cut Every Time

Getting clean cuts on cheesecake bars can be tricky. Here are a few tips: Use a long, sharp knife. Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut. This prevents the cheesecake from sticking to the knife and ensures a neat, professional look. Chilling the bars thoroughly before cutting is also essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are actually better when made a day or two in advance, as it allows the flavors to fully develop and the texture to set. Store them covered in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or almonds would all be delicious substitutes for pistachios.

What if I don’t have orange juice?

You can substitute with a teaspoon of orange extract, but fresh orange juice provides a brighter, more natural flavor.

These Orange Zest Ricotta Swirl Cannoli Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress! Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later so you can easily find it when you’re ready to bake.

Orange Zest Ricotta Swirl Cannoli Cheesecake Bars

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• Author: Rachel Thompson
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

These Orange Zest Ricotta Swirl Cannoli Cheesecake Bars combine creamy cheesecake with the flavors of cannoli, featuring a buttery graham cracker-pistachio crust and a bright citrusy swirl. A delightful treat for any occasion!

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Ingredients

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• 200g (1.75 cups) Graham Cracker Crumbs (Halal)
• 100g (1 cup) Pistachios, Finely Chopped
• 100g (0.75 cup) Unsalted Butter, Melted
• 500g (2 cups) Cream Cheese, Softened
• 250g (1 cup) Ricotta Cheese
• 150g (0.75 cup) Granulated Sugar
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Alcohol‑free Vanilla Extract
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Orange Zest
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 tbsp (15g) All‑Purpose Flour
• 100g (3.5 oz) Dark Chocolate (Halal), Melted
• 20g (2 tbsp) Pistachios, Coarsely Chopped – for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, pistachios, and melted butter.
2. Press the Crust: Press mixture into a 9×13 inch pan.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
4. Make Cheesecake Base: Beat cream cheese, ricotta, and sugar until smooth.
5. Add Eggs: Mix in eggs one at a time.
6. Infuse Flavor: Stir in vanilla, orange zest, orange juice, and flour.
7. Create Swirl: Swirl plain and orange-infused batters together.
8. Bake Cheesecake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until set.
9. Cool & Drizzle: Cool, then drizzle with melted chocolate.
10. Garnish & Chill: Sprinkle with pistachios and chill for 4+ hours.
11. Cut & Serve: Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

For clean cuts, dip a knife in hot water and wipe clean between each slice. Chilling thoroughly is essential.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg