Italian Ricotta Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines rich flavor with an effortless preparation, you’ve come to the right place! This Italian Ricotta Cake is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of creamy ricotta and light vanilla cake that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family gathering or simply indulging on a busy weeknight, this cake has a special place in my heart.
What makes this dessert truly wonderful is how it brings together two delightful layers that bake seamlessly into one stunning cake. The smooth ricotta layer creates a custard-like base while the cake layer adds a fluffy texture. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about this Italian Ricotta Cake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this cake ready in no time.
- Family-friendly appeal: Everyone from kids to grandparents will love the creamy texture and sweet flavor.
- Deliciously versatile: Perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just because!
- Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time and let it cool; it’s even better the next day!
- So satisfying: Each slice is packed with flavor, offering that delightful balance of creaminess and lightness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our delicious Italian Ricotta Cake. You might already have many of these in your pantry!
For the Ricotta Cream Layer:
- 2 (15-ounce) containers full-fat ricotta cheese
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
For the Vanilla Cake Layer:
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box vanilla, white, or yellow cake mix
- ½ cup neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to give your Italian Ricotta Cake a personal twist:
- Add citrus zest: Brighten up the flavors by adding lemon or orange zest to the ricotta mixture.
- Mix in chocolate chips: Add a handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
- Try different extracts: Swap out vanilla for almond extract for an unexpected flavor twist.
- Top with fruit: Serve slices topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce for extra flair.
How to Make Italian Ricotta Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is crucial as it ensures your cake won’t stick when it’s time to slice and serve.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Cream Layer
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs. Beat until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the luscious base of your cake. Pour it evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Vanilla Cake Batter
In another bowl, prepare your cake batter by combining the cake mix, oil, water, and eggs. Mix according to package directions until smooth. This easy step allows you to create a fluffy layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ricotta.
Step 4: Combine Layers
Gently pour the cake batter over the ricotta mixture in the baking dish. Do not stir! The magic happens in the oven as these layers naturally invert while baking.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake layer comes out clean. Watching it rise beautifully in the oven is half the fun!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your Italian Ricotta Cake cool completely before slicing. Serve as is for an elegant treat or dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy making this delightful dessert! I can’t wait for you to share how much you love it!
Pro Tips for Making Italian Ricotta Cake
Making the perfect Italian Ricotta Cake is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.
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Use room temperature ingredients: This helps to create a smooth and uniform batter, leading to a beautifully textured cake.
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Don’t skip the greasing and flouring: Properly preparing your baking dish prevents the cake from sticking, ensuring a clean and beautiful release once baked.
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Monitor baking time closely: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. This way, you avoid overbaking and maintain that delicate creaminess.
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Cool completely before slicing: Patience pays off! Allowing the cake to cool completely helps set the layers properly and makes for cleaner slices.
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Experiment with flavors: While vanilla is classic, don’t hesitate to add a dash of lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist that can enhance the overall flavor profile!
How to Serve Italian Ricotta Cake
This Italian Ricotta Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile when it comes to presentation. Here are a few ideas to serve it up beautifully!
Garnishes
- Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and visual appeal.
- Fresh berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy texture.
- Mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint provides a lovely contrast in color and an aromatic lift to each slice.
Side Dishes
- Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream adds richness while keeping things light and airy.
- Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits brings brightness to the plate and balances the richness of the cake.
- Espresso: A small cup of strong espresso pairs wonderfully with the sweet creaminess of the ricotta cake, enhancing its flavors.
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds an indulgent touch that contrasts beautifully with the warm cake.
Enjoy your delightful Italian Ricotta Cake with these serving suggestions for a truly memorable dessert experience!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Italian Ricotta Cake is not only a delightful dessert but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, making it perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
- Keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Freezing
- Slice the cake into individual portions for easy thawing.
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- To reheat, remove the desired portion from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Warm in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese for Italian Ricotta Cake?
You can use low-fat ricotta cheese, but keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture and creaminess of the cake. Full-fat ricotta provides richer flavor and a denser cream layer.
How should I serve Italian Ricotta Cake?
Italian Ricotta Cake is delicious on its own! However, you can also serve it with fresh berries, whipped cream alternatives, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Can I substitute other flavors in Italian Ricotta Cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding citrus zest or using different extracts like almond or lemon to give your cake a unique twist.
How long does Italian Ricotta Cake last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, Italian Ricotta Cake will last up to 5 days. If you freeze individual slices, they can be enjoyed for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this delightful Italian Ricotta Cake as much as I do! Its creamy richness combined with a light vanilla layer makes it truly special. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or savoring it on your own, this cake is sure to bring joy. Happy baking!
Italian Ricotta Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
If you’re searching for a dessert that embodies flavor while being simple to prepare, look no further than this Italian Ricotta Cake. This delightful treat features a luscious ricotta cream layer combined with a fluffy vanilla cake, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Ideal for any occasion—from family gatherings to cozy evenings at home—this cake is sure to impress. With its rich yet light profile, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds. Let’s dive into the easy steps to make this show-stopping dessert!
Ingredients
- 2 (15-ounce) containers full-fat ricotta cheese
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box vanilla cake mix
- ½ cup neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth. Pour into the prepared dish.
- In another bowl, combine the cake mix, oil, water, and eggs; mix until smooth.
- Gently pour the cake batter over the ricotta mixture—do not stir.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
