Ingredients
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
16 oz ricotta cheese
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2/3 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Zest of 1 orange
1 large egg
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
3. In a large bowl, beat ricotta and cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and orange zest. Mix until combined.
4. Add the egg and mix just until blended. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
5. Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the center is just set. Cool completely, then chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Slice into bars and serve chilled.
Notes
Strain ricotta in cheesecloth or paper towels for extra creamy texture.
Top with chopped pistachios or a dusting of powdered sugar for an authentic touch.
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze individually wrapped bars.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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