To make a homemade ricotta cake, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
– 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup of whole milk ricotta cheese
– 4 eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– Zest of 1 lemon
– ½ teaspoon of salt
Now, let’s get started with the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon for this step.
Step 3: Add the ricotta cheese to the butter and sugar mixture and blend until well combined.
Step 4: Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest to the batter and mix until combined. The lemon zest will provide a refreshing flavor to your cake.
Step 6: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing may result in a dense cake, so be careful not to overdo it.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The baking time may vary, so keep an eye on your cake and adjust accordingly.
Step 9: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Once cooled, you can enjoy the ricotta cake as is, or you can dust it with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness. You can also serve it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
There you have it! A simple and delicious ricotta cake that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!