This No Bake Cannoli Cheesecake turns the classic cannoli filling into a creamy, sliceable dessert. A buttery graham cracker crust supports a rich blend of ricotta and cream cheese, studded with mini chocolate chips and finished with pistachios and whipped cream for an impressive, easy-to-make treat.
Why You’ll Love This Luscious No Bake Cannoli Cheesecake
- No baking required — ideal for warm days or when the oven is busy.
- Creamy, smooth filling made with both ricotta and cream cheese for authentic cannoli flavor.
- Balanced sweetness with a hint of orange zest and warming cinnamon.
- Looks impressive on the table yet comes together with minimal effort.
- Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want a show-stopping dessert.
If you enjoy the flavors of cannoli but want a simpler technique, this no-bake version is a must-try.
Ingredients You Need
No Bake Cannoli Cheesecake Recipe
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 sheets)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cannoli Cheesecake
- 3 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 15 ounces full-fat ricotta cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Toppings
- 1 cup whipped cream for piping the border (add more if needed)
- Additional mini chocolate chips
- Roasted pistachios, chopped for sprinkling
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions: How to Make Easy No Bake Cannoli Cheesecake
- Line the bottom of an 8-inch or 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
Graham Cracker Crust
- Pulse graham crackers in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Add the melted butter and sugar, pulsing until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumbs evenly into the prepared springform pan. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
Cannoli Cheesecake
- Place cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt, and mix until combined. Add ricotta and powdered sugar and beat until the mixture is thick and uniform. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to set.
Toppings
- When ready to serve, pipe whipped cream swirls around the edge if desired, then sprinkle with chopped pistachios and extra chocolate chips. Dust lightly with powdered sugar and serve chilled.
This cheesecake slices cleanly when fully chilled and makes a memorable dessert for guests.
How to Store This Homemade Cannoli Cheesecake
- Keep refrigerated in a covered container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap.
- Enjoy within 3 to 4 days for best texture and flavor.
- For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
More Variations for Your No Bake Cannoli Cheesecake
- Swap the crust: Use crushed biscotti or chocolate graham crackers to change the base flavor.
- Change the chocolate: Try chopped dark chocolate or white chocolate chips in place of mini chips.
- Add a swirl: Gently swirl a few spoonfuls of raspberry jam or Nutella into the top layer before chilling.
- Use lemon zest: Substitute lemon for orange zest for a brighter citrus note.
- Add warm spices: A pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon adds cozy depth.
FAQs
Can I use part-skim ricotta?
- Yes — part-skim will work, but full-fat ricotta yields a richer, creamier texture. If using part-skim, drain any excess liquid before mixing.
Is the filling sweet enough without extra sugar?
- The filling is moderately sweet. Taste the mixture before folding in the chocolate chips and adjust the powdered sugar to suit your preference.
Can I make this ahead?
- Absolutely. It’s best made a day ahead so it has time to chill and set thoroughly.
This no bake cannoli chocolate chip cheesecake combines creamy texture, bright citrus notes, and chocolate crunch for a simple yet elegant dessert. It’s perfect for celebrations or any time you want a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-prepare sweet.
