Imagine a dessert that captures the essence of a classic Italian cannoli, transformed into a stunning no-bake tart that will make your taste buds dance with delight! This No Bake Cannoli Tart is the perfect dessert for those who want maximum flavor with minimal effort. Creamy ricotta, crunchy graham cracker crust, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips and pistachios come together to create a show-stopping treat that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery – but can be made in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Transfer the graham cracker mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to press the mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
- Place the prepared crust in the refrigerator to chill and set while preparing the filling, approximately 15 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, drain any excess liquid from the ricotta cheese using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to ensure a thick, creamy consistency.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the ricotta cheese. Whisk or beat with an electric mixer until smooth and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the ricotta mixture.
- Remove the chilled crust from the refrigerator and carefully spread the ricotta filling evenly across the graham cracker base.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top of the filling for added texture and visual appeal.
- Cover the tart with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld.
- Before serving, remove the tart from the refrigerator and carefully release it from the tart pan. Slice into wedges and serve chilled.
Tips
- Drain the ricotta thoroughly to ensure a thick, creamy filling without excess moisture. Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any extra liquid.
- Make sure to press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to create a solid base that holds together when sliced.
- For the best flavor and texture, let the tart chill for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set perfectly.
- Use room temperature ingredients, especially the ricotta, to ensure a smooth and lump-free filling.
- For a gourmet touch, you can toast the pistachios lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor.
- If you want to make this dessert ahead of time, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for advance preparation.
- For a decorative finish, you can dust the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or add a few extra chocolate chips just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 65mg
