Best Ricotta Cake Recipe – Moist Italian Dessert,

Ricotta Cake Recipe – A classic Ricotta Cake Recipe is one of the most beloved Italian desserts, known for its incredibly soft, tender texture and delicate flavor. Ricotta cheese gives the cake a naturally creamy crumb, creating a dessert that is moist without being dense, sweet without being overly sugary, and luxurious without requiring complicated techniques.

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This cake is ideal for both casual and special occasions—whether served with coffee, enjoyed as an afternoon treat, or dressed up as a dinner-party dessert.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Active Time: 10 minutes

• Resting/Cooling Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 55–65 minutes

• Cuisine: Italian, European

• Course: Dessert, Tea-Time Cake

• Servings: 10–12 slices

• Calories: ~290 per serving

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups whole-milk ricotta cheese

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp almond extract (optional but recommended)

• Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Ricotta & Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, ricotta cheese, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. This step is essential for creating the cake’s airy texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs & Aromatics

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth. Avoid overmixing to maintain a fluffy texture.

If adding chocolate chips or fruit, gently fold them into the batter now.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or top with berries.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls

• Electric mixer or hand whisk

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Rubber spatula

• 8- or 9-inch cake pan

• Cooling rack

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx.)

Nutritional values may vary based on add-ins.

What Makes Ricotta Cake Special?

Ricotta cake stands out because of its luxurious yet incredibly light crumb. Unlike dense cheesecakes or overly sweet frosted cakes, this dessert strikes a perfect balance. The ricotta gives it moisture and richness, while the lemon zest and vanilla brighten the flavor profile. As it bakes, the cake rises beautifully and creates a delicate texture that feels like a cross between sponge cake and ricotta cheesecake.

Key Qualities You’ll Love:

• Ultra-moist texture that stays fresh for days

• Simple ingredients found in any kitchen

• Not overly sweet, perfect for both breakfast and dessert

• Beautiful aroma from lemon zest and vanilla

• Endlessly versatile—pair with fruits, chocolate, or glaze

If you enjoy Italian pastries such as cannoli or ricotta cookies, you will appreciate the flavor of this cake. It’s sophisticated enough to serve at gatherings, yet simple enough to bake on a lazy weekend.

Final Thoughts

This Ricotta Cake Recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity, elegance, and indulgence. With its soft, tender texture and lovely flavor profile, it’s a dessert that suits nearly any occasion. Whether served plain with powdered sugar or topped with fresh fruit, it delivers a comforting, homemade charm that keeps people coming back for more.