Easy No-Bake Cannoli Bars 🇮🇹
These easy, no-bake bars offer a simpler way to enjoy the classic cannoli taste without the baking! They're perfect for making ahead and serving at any gathering.
Equipment
- 8-inch Square Pan
- Parchment Paper
- Food Processor
- Electric Mixer
- Spatula
- Long, Sharp Knife
Ingredients
Crust
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
- 2 cups Biscoff cookie crumbs (about 200g)
Creamy Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (part-skim or whole milk works well)
- 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese softened at room temperature
- 1 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a hint of warmth)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, or orange zest for a classic touch)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
- 1/3 cup chopped pistachios (shelled, plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring an overhang on two sides for easy lifting. In a food processor, pulse the Biscoff cookies until they form fine crumbs. Pour in the melted butter and pulse again until the crumbs are well moistened. Press this buttery mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Place the pan in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to chill while you get the filling ready.
- Whip the Creamy Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is beautifully smooth and completely combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add Flavor and Mix-ins: Stir in the vanilla extract, and if you choose, the optional cinnamon and lemon zest for an added layer of delightful flavor. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios with a spatula until they are just evenly distributed throughout the creamy filling.
- Assemble and Chill: Carefully spread the rich, creamy filling over your chilled cookie crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the bars to set perfectly firm. This passive chilling time is essential for easy slicing!
- Slice and Enjoy: Once thoroughly chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to gently lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board. For neat, clean slices, use a long, sharp knife, running it under hot water and wiping it dry between each cut. Garnish with extra mini chocolate chips or chopped pistachios if desired.
Notes
These easy, no-bake bars are a healthier and simpler way to enjoy the classic cannoli taste!
Nutrition Information per serving:
Calories: 457 kcal
Total Carbs: 35g
Net Carbs: 34g
Fats: 34g
Protein: 5g
Calories: 457 kcal
Total Carbs: 35g
Net Carbs: 34g
Fats: 34g
Protein: 5g
