### Italian Ricotta Cake: A Light and Delicious Delight

Italian Ricotta Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the light, airy nature of a sponge cake. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a special celebration or a casual gathering, this cake offers a mild sweetness and rich flavor that can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with various toppings. Let’s dive into the details of making this delectable dessert!

#### Ingredients

**For the Cake:**

– **All-Purpose Flour**: 1 1/2 cups
– **Granulated Sugar**: 1 cup
– **Baking Powder**: 1 tablespoon
– **Salt**: 1/4 teaspoon
– **Eggs**: 3 large
– **Ricotta Cheese**: 1 1/2 cups (whole milk ricotta is recommended)
– **Whole Milk**: 1/2 cup
– **Unsalted Butter**: 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted and cooled
– **Vanilla Extract**: 1 teaspoon
– **Lemon Zest**: 1 tablespoon (optional, for added flavor)

**For the Topping:**

– **Powdered Sugar**: for dusting
– **Fresh Strawberries**: sliced, for garnish (optional)

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### Instructions

#### Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.

2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agent, which is crucial for an even rise.

3. **Prepare Wet Ingredients**: In another bowl, beat the eggs until they become light and fluffy. Add the ricotta cheese, whole milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Mix until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the richness of the ricotta.

4. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake. The batter should be thick and creamy.

#### Bake the Cake:

5. **Pour and Spread the Batter**: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure an even bake.

6. **Bake**: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be firm to the touch but still moist inside.

7. **Cool the Cake**: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully remove the cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cake helps it set properly and makes it easier to cut.

#### Add the Topping:

8. **Dust with Powdered Sugar**: Once the cake has cooled completely, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful, elegant finish.

9. **Garnish with Fresh Strawberries**: Garnish with sliced fresh strawberries or any other fruit of your choice for added color and flavor. The freshness of the fruit pairs wonderfully with the creamy, light texture of the cake.

#### Serve:

10. **Slice and Enjoy**: Slice the cake and serve it on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The light and creamy texture, combined with a hint of lemon zest and the freshness of the strawberries, makes for a delightful dessert experience.

### Tips for the Perfect Ricotta Cake:

– **Ricotta Cheese**: Ensure that the ricotta cheese is well-drained before using it in the recipe. Excess moisture can make the batter too runny, affecting the texture of the cake.
– **Room Temperature Ingredients**: Using room temperature ingredients helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking. This is especially important for the eggs and butter.
– **Flavor Variations**: Experiment with different flavors by adding almond extract, orange zest, or even a splash of liqueur to the batter. This can add an extra layer of complexity to the cake’s flavor.

### Nutritional Benefits:

**Ricotta Cheese:**

– Rich in calcium and protein, ricotta cheese contributes to bone health and muscle maintenance.
– Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, B vitamins, and zinc, which are beneficial for overall health.

**Eggs:**

– Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline, which is important for brain health.
– Also contribute to the cake’s structure, making it light and fluffy.

**Moderation:**

While this cake is a delicious treat, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Pair it with fresh fruits or a small serving size to enjoy all its benefits without overindulgence.

### Conclusion

Italian Ricotta Cake is a light, moist, and flavorful dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. Its delicate texture and subtle sweetness make it a versatile cake that can be enjoyed with various toppings or on its own. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this ricotta cake brings a touch of Italy to your table.

So, go ahead and try this recipe for a delightful treat! Enjoy baking, savor every bite, and share the joy of this exquisite dessert with those you love. Buon appetito!