When it comes to dessert, there’s nothing quite like a moist and flavorful ricotta cake. The creamy texture of ricotta cheese adds a unique twist to traditional cakes, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to serve at a birthday party or a decadent dessert to satisfy your cravings, we’ve got you covered with these 20 delicious ricotta cake recipes.
From classic flavors like lemon and chocolate to more adventurous options like pumpkin and tiramisu, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each of these recipes is sure to impress your friends and family with its rich flavor and tender crumb.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of ricotta cakes, exploring the many different ways you can use this versatile ingredient to create show-stopping desserts. So grab a cup of coffee, get ready to indulge, and let’s get started!
Lemon Ricotta Cake with Blueberry Glaze
Brighten up your day with this refreshing dessert that combines the tanginess of lemon and creaminess of ricotta with a sweet blueberry glaze. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Blueberry glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Blueberry Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons blueberry jam
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Mix powdered sugar, blueberry jam, and lemon juice in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Chocolate Swirl Ricotta Pound Cake
Moist and creamy ricotta adds a delightful twist to this classic pound cake, while a swirl of dark chocolate takes it to new heights. Perfect for special occasions or as a indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 8 oz (225g) ricotta cheese
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta cheese, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, followed by the melted chocolate. Repeat with remaining batter.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Orange Ricotta Olive Oil Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful cake infused with the sweetness of oranges, creaminess of ricotta, and richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 tsp grated orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, olive oil, eggs, ricotta cheese, orange juice, and zest.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Almond Ricotta Bundt Cake
This moist and airy cake is infused with the subtle nutty flavor of almonds and the creamy richness of ricotta, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, ricotta cheese, and almond extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Raspberry Ricotta Coffee Cake
This sweet treat combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the tartness of fresh raspberries, all wrapped up in a crumbly coffee cake crust. Perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and top with fresh raspberries.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Vanilla Bean Ricotta Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent Vanilla Bean Ricotta Cheesecake, featuring the sweetness of vanilla beans and the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into the prepared pan.
3. Beat ricotta cheese until smooth. Add vanilla extract, salt, and granulated sugar; mix well.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time; beat well after each addition.
5. Combine ricotta and cream cheese mixtures. Pour into the crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour, 5-10 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Ricotta Cake
Spiced Pumpkin Ricotta Cake: A moist and aromatic dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, pumpkin puree, eggs, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Ricotta Cake with Pistachios
This moist and flavorful cake combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the warmth of honey and the crunch of pistachios. Perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Coconut Ricotta Layer Cake
This moist and creamy cake is a perfect blend of flavors, with the richness of coconut and ricotta cheese balanced by the sweetness of sugar and vanilla. Perfect for any occasion or just because!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool in pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Ricotta Upside-Down Cake
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic upside-down cake, this recipe combines fresh strawberries with creamy ricotta cheese for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add melted butter, milk, eggs, ricotta cheese, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Arrange strawberries in the prepared cake pan, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Pour batter over strawberries.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tiramisu-Style Ricotta Cake
This Italian-inspired dessert combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the elegance of ladyfingers and a hint of espresso. Perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat, this Tiramisu-Style Ricotta Cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup ladyfingers, split
– 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
3. Dip ladyfingers into espresso, about 30 seconds per side. Arrange half the ladyfingers in the prepared pan.
4. Spread half the ricotta mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat layers.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Ricotta Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful lemon poppy seed ricotta cake, perfect for a springtime treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dark Chocolate Ricotta Fudge Cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent cake that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese, the depth of dark chocolate, and the fudginess of a classic brownie. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat to brighten up any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, ricotta cheese, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Carrot Cake with Ricotta Frosting
A moist and flavorful carrot cake gets a creamy boost from ricotta frosting, perfect for a special occasion or everyday treat.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating just until combined.
5. Stir in grated carrots and chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting:
1. Beat ricotta cheese until smooth. Add butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract; beat until combined.
2. Spread or pipe frosting over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes for the cake, 10-15 minutes for the frosting
Cherry Almond Ricotta Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any occasion. The combination of cherry jam, almond extract, and ricotta cheese creates a unique and delicious taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup cherry jam
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and eggs.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, butter, almond extract, and cherry jam. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Espresso Ricotta Marble Cake
This rich and decadent cake combines the bold flavors of espresso and ricotta cheese with a beautiful marble design, perfect for a special occasion or dessert gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup (60g) ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, milk, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, ricotta cheese, and espresso powder; mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter in half; add a few drops of food coloring to one half for the marble effect.
5. Pour batters into prepared pan; use a knife or spatula to create a marbled design.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Sheet Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this moist and flavorful sheet cake, infused with the sweetness of blueberries, the brightness of lemon, and the creaminess of ricotta.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter; mix until just combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Gently fold in blueberries.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Ricotta Snack Cake
This sweet treat combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, perfect for a quick snack or after-school pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 6-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, ricotta cheese, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peach Ricotta Cake with Cinnamon Streusel
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of peaches with the creaminess of ricotta cheese, topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel. Perfect for a warm-weather dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup diced peaches (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup cinnamon streusel topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and eggs. Add milk, ricotta cheese, melted butter, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
3. Fold in diced peaches.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
5. Top with cinnamon streusel topping (see below).
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. Add cold butter; use fingers to work into crumbs.
Glazed Lemon Ricotta Loaf Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful cake, infused with the zesty sweetness of lemon and the creamy richness of ricotta. Perfect for brunch or a casual dessert gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Add melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before glazing with powdered sugar and lemon juice mixture.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
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