Ricotta Filling

Ricotta Filling Recipe from Italy with Chocolate and Citron | Delicious Dessert

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 12

Introduction

Ricotta filling is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. This creamy and rich filling is made from a combination of beaten eggs, sugar, fine ricotta cheese, nuts, citron, and maraschino cherries. It is perfect for filling pastries, cakes, and other baked goods.

History

Ricotta filling has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. Ricotta cheese, which is the main ingredient in this filling, has been used in Italian cooking since ancient times. The creamy texture and mild flavor of ricotta make it a perfect base for sweet and savory fillings.

Ingredients

28 beaten eggs
1.75 cups sugar
3 lb (1.36 kg) fine ricotta
1 – 2 large (12 oz (340 g)) chocolate bar or milk chocolate with nuts (optional to taste)
1 small bottle citron
1 small bottle chopped maraschino cherries

How to prepare

Beat the eggs well, then add the sugar and continue beating.
Add the ricotta cheese and beat until well combined.
Next, add the remaining ingredients and blend everything together thoroughly.
Divide the dough into two parts, one large ball and one small ball.
Take the larger ball of dough and roll it out to fit a 12-inch baking dish.
Pour the mixture into the dish and cover it with strips of dough rolled out from the smaller ball.
Fill the pan about 0.75 full.
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 3 hours.
Remove from the oven and let it cool before serving.

Variations

Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a chocolate ricotta filling.
Add lemon zest or juice for a citrusy ricotta filling.
Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced ricotta filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to beat the eggs well before adding the sugar to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Be sure to blend all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure that the filling is well combined.

- When rolling out the dough for the baking dish, make sure to roll it out evenly to ensure even baking.

- Let the ricotta filling cool before serving to allow it to set and develop its flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Ricotta filling can be used to fill pastries, cakes, and other baked goods. It can also be served on its own as a dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Beat the eggs well before adding the sugar to ensure a smooth texture.

- Blend all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure a well-combined filling.

- Roll out the dough evenly for even baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute mascarpone cheese for ricotta cheese for a richer filling.

- You can substitute dried fruit for nuts for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Ricotta filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve ricotta filling in a decorative dish garnished with fresh fruit or nuts.

Pairing Recommendations

Ricotta filling pairs well with fresh berries, chocolate, and nuts.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover ricotta filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of ricotta filling contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of ricotta filling contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of ricotta filling contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of ricotta filling contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Ricotta filling is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.

Alergens

Ricotta filling contains eggs and nuts, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Ricotta filling is a rich and creamy filling that is high in fats and proteins. It is a good source of calcium and vitamins A and D.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a sunny afternoon in the late 1960s when I was visiting my dear friend Maria. She had just returned from a trip to Italy and brought back a cookbook filled with traditional Italian recipes. One of the recipes that caught my eye was for a delicious Ricotta Filling that could be used in various desserts.

Maria, being the generous soul that she was, offered to teach me how to make the filling. We spent the afternoon in her cozy kitchen, surrounded by the warm aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces. Maria showed me how to combine ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, and a touch of vanilla extract to create a smooth and creamy filling that could be used in cannoli, pastries, or even as a topping for pancakes.

As we worked together, Maria shared with me the story of how she learned to make the Ricotta Filling from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. She explained that the key to a perfect filling was to use high-quality ingredients and to mix them together with love and care.

After our baking session was over, Maria sent me home with a container of the Ricotta Filling and a promise to come back for more cooking lessons in the future. Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, adding my own twist by incorporating lemon zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon depending on the occasion.

As time went on, I found myself sharing the recipe with friends and family members who were eager to taste the delicious filling in their own homemade desserts. My grandchildren would often request that I make them cannoli filled with the Ricotta Filling for special occasions, and I happily obliged, knowing that I was passing down a cherished tradition just like Maria had done for me.

One day, while I was visiting my sister in a small coastal town, I stumbled upon a quaint little bakery that specialized in Italian pastries. Intrigued, I decided to pop in and see what they had to offer. To my surprise, I noticed that they were using a similar recipe for their Ricotta Filling, and I couldn't help but strike up a conversation with the owner.

As it turned out, the owner had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had immigrated to the United States from Italy many years ago. We shared stories of our family traditions and the joy of cooking with loved ones, bonding over our mutual love for this simple yet delicious filling.

Before I left the bakery, the owner insisted on giving me a small batch of their Ricotta Filling to take home with me. I thanked her graciously and promised to return the favor by sharing some of my own homemade treats with her.

As I reflect on the many memories and connections that this recipe has brought into my life, I am filled with gratitude for the simple joys of cooking and sharing delicious food with those I love. The Ricotta Filling may be just a small part of a larger culinary tradition, but to me, it represents the warmth and love that can be shared through a humble recipe passed down through generations. And for that, I am truly grateful.