Healthy Cannoli Bars

Aug 16

Written By Nini P

Healthy Cannoli Bars (Gluten-Free, High Protein & Naturally Sweetened)

If you love the rich, creamy flavor of Italian cannoli but want a lighter, healthier twist, these Healthy Cannoli Bars are for you! Made with a nutty almond flour crust, creamy ricotta filling, and mini dark chocolate chips, this recipe gives you all the indulgence of a classic cannoli—without the deep frying or excess sugar.

Each bar packs 6g of protein, making them a satisfying snack or dessert that feels decadent but is actually nourishing. Plus, they’re gluten-free, lower in sugar, and can easily be made higher in protein with the optional scoop of protein powder.

Enjoy,

SiLLibake

**Healthy Cannoli Bars**

These Healthy Cannoli Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness—all while being gluten-free, higher in protein, and naturally sweetened.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Cannoli Bars:

Gluten-free & wholesome – Made with almond flour and flaxseed.

Protein-packed – Thanks to ricotta, Greek yogurt, and optional protein powder.

Naturally sweetened – Sweetened with maple syrup instead of refined sugar.

Easy to make ahead – Perfect for meal prep, holidays, or a guilt-free treat.

Tips & Variations:

Higher Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the filling.
Nut-Free: Swap almond flour for oat flour and pistachios for pumpkin seeds.
Lower Sugar: Use monk fruit or stevia instead of maple syrup.
Flavor Boost: Add orange zest for a Sicilian-inspired twist.

Perfect For:

✨ A healthier dessert after dinner
✨ A protein-packed snack with coffee
✨ Holiday gatherings or potlucks
✨ Freezer-friendly meal prep

Storage Tips:

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze bars in layers with parchment between. Keeps up to 2 months.

RECIPE: Healthy Cannoli Bars

PREP TIME: 15 MIN

COOK TIME: 28-32 MIN

REFRIGERATE: 4 HRS

TOTAL TIME: Approx 4 HRS 45 MIN

SERVING: 16

Healthy Cannoli Bars

These Healthy Cannoli Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness—all while being gluten-free, higher in protein, and naturally sweetened. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just to keep in the fridge for a guilt-free treat, they’re sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients:

Crust:

1 ½ cups almond flour or oat flour, 180 g, packed

2 tbsp ground flaxseed, 14 g (optional)

1 tbsp chopped pistachios, 8 g

4 tbsp melted butter, 56 g (or coconut oil, same weight)

2 tbsp maple syrup, 40 g (any sweetener)

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp cinnamon

Filling:

1 ½ cups ricotta cheese, 360 g

1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt, 80 g

2 large eggs

1/4 – 1/3 cup maple syrup, (80–105 g, depending on sweetness preference)

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp almond extract

¼ cup mini dark chocolate chips, 43 g

Optional:

½ scoop protein powder, about 15 g, optional – depends on brand

1/2 tsp orange zest (to the ricotta filling)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 pan with parchment.
Crust: Mix almond flour, flaxseed, pistachios, cinnamon and salt. Then add your melted butter and maple syrup, mix until everything is well hydrated. Press into the pan and bake 10–12 minutes, until lightly golden. Let it cool while you make the filling.
Filling: Add all ingredients except for chocolate chips into a blender and blend until smooth.
Pour over crust and evenly sprinkle your chocolate chips
Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until just set in the center.
Cool completely, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
Slice into 16 bars and enjoy!
Refrigerate 4-5 days in an airtight container or freeze cut bars for up to 2 months
Nutrition (Approximate): 1 Serving