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Italian Limoncello Ricotta Cake with lemon zest and creamy ricotta filling
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Italian Limoncello Ricotta Cake

A delightful dessert that combines creamy ricotta with the zesty flavor of limoncello, resulting in a moist and luscious cake perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Citrus Cake, Easy Cake Recipe, Italian dessert, Limoncello Cake, Ricotta Dessert
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 300kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese Adds creaminess and a rich texture.
  • 1/2 cup limoncello liqueur or fresh lemon juice Provides a refreshing citrus kick.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cake perfectly.
  • 3 large eggs Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Forms the structure of the cake.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest Intensifies the lemon flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds depth to the taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors.
  • powdered sugar for dusting (optional) Adds a beautiful finishing touch.
  • fresh berries for serving (optional) Provides a lovely contrast and adds freshness.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, limoncello (or lemon juice), and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy.
  • Incorporate the eggs into the mixture, one at a time, ensuring each is well blended before adding the next.
  • Add the freshly grated lemon zest and vanilla extract to the batter, stirring until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the ricotta mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Baking

  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely before removing from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries if desired.

Notes

Use high-quality ricotta for the richest flavor. Experiment with different citrus zests for a unique twist. Consider adding chopped nuts for texture.