Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake

Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake Recipe - An Authentic Italian Dessert

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any special occasion or simply as a delicious treat for yourself.

History

The combination of chocolate and ricotta in a cake is a classic Italian flavor pairing. Ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture and subtle tanginess to the cake, while the cocoa powder provides a rich chocolate flavor. This recipe has been passed down through generations in Italian families, each adding their own twist to make it their own.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1.25 cups unsweetened cocoa
2.5 tsp baking soda
1.5 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
3 cups sugar
1.25 cups vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla
1 cup whole milk ricotta
3 large eggs
2.5 cups water

chocolate frosting

12 oz (340 g) quality milk chocolate
1 cup sour cream at room temperature

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease the bottom and sides of two 9" cake pans.
Sift the dry ingredients and mix them together in a bowl. Set aside.
In the mixer bowl, mix the sugar, oil, ricotta, and vanilla on medium speed for 2 minutes.
Add the eggs and beat until incorporated. On low speed, beat in the flour alternately with water in 3 additions.
Scrape the bowl and beat at medium speed for 1 minute.
Divide the batter equally between the pans and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean.
Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them onto plates. Frost the cakes when they are cool.
For the frosting, melt the chocolate over simmering water and stir until smooth. Let it cool to room temperature.
Mix the sour cream into the chocolate with a wire whisk. Frost the first layer, top with the second layer, and then frost the top and sides.
Garnish with chocolate shavings, raspberries, and whipped cream as desired.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Substitute dark chocolate for milk chocolate in the frosting for a richer taste.
Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the top of the cake for an extra decadent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly grease your cake pans to prevent the cake from sticking.

- Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a smooth and evenly mixed batter.

- Be sure to cool the cakes completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

- Garnish the cake with chocolate shavings, raspberries, and whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to properly mix the wet and dry ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.

- Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and baking.

- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute Greek yogurt for ricotta cheese for a slightly tangier flavor.

- Use canola or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier alternative.

- Substitute almond or coconut flour for all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can bake the cakes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Frost the cakes just before serving for the best results.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the cake with fresh berries, mint leaves, or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation. Dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake with a glass of dessert wine, such as a sweet Moscato or Port, for a perfect ending to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This cake is a good source of calcium from the ricotta cheese, providing essential nutrients for bone health.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (ricotta cheese) and eggs. It may also contain gluten from the all-purpose flour.

Summary

This Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake is a delicious dessert option that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a decadent treat that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake. With a moist and flavorful cake base and a creamy chocolate frosting, this dessert is sure to impress. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was known for her incredible baking skills, and she had promised to teach me one of her most treasured recipes that day.

As we gathered the ingredients and preheated the oven, Maria began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had brought it with her from Italy many years ago. The recipe had been passed down through generations, and Maria had made it her own with a few special touches.

I watched intently as Maria mixed the creamy ricotta cheese with rich dark chocolate, the sweet aroma filling the air. She added a touch of espresso for depth of flavor, and a splash of rum for a hint of warmth. The batter was thick and luscious, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished cake.

As we waited for it to bake, Maria regaled me with tales of her grandmother's kitchen in Italy. She spoke of long days spent kneading dough and rolling out pasta, of the scent of garlic and tomatoes simmering on the stove. She described the way her grandmother's hands moved with such grace and skill, creating delicious dishes that brought the family together around the table.

Finally, the cake was ready, and we eagerly sliced into it, the chocolatey goodness oozing out onto our plates. The first bite was pure heaven – rich and decadent, with a hint of sweetness from the ricotta. I knew then that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake countless times, each time with memories of that sunny afternoon in Maria's kitchen. I have shared it with friends and family, who always rave about its unique flavor and texture. It has become a staple at holiday gatherings and special occasions, a symbol of love and tradition passed down through the generations.

As I sit here now, with a slice of cake and a cup of espresso in front of me, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the joy this recipe has brought into my life. It is more than just a dessert – it is a connection to my heritage, a reminder of the strong women who came before me and shared their love through food.

I am grateful for the gift of this recipe, and for the time I spent learning it from my dear friend Maria. It is a treasure that I will continue to cherish and pass down to future generations, keeping alive the spirit of family and tradition that is so important to me.

So here's to the Italian Chocolate-Ricotta Cake – a delicious reminder of the power of food to bring us together, to nourish our bodies and our souls, and to create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come. Buon appetito!