Description
Italian Love Cake is a luscious layered dessert featuring a moist chocolate cake base topped with a creamy, subtly sweetened ricotta mixture. This comforting and decadent treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave an indulgent homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the Ricotta Layer:
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 large egg
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make Cake Batter: Prepare the chocolate cake mix as per the package instructions, incorporating water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Once mixed, pour the batter evenly into the greased baking dish.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a separate bowl, blend together the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and egg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Ricotta Layer: Carefully spoon the ricotta mixture evenly over the chocolate cake batter without stirring. The ricotta will partly sink during baking, creating a lovely layered effect.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool and Dust: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lightly dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice into squares and serve this rich, creamy dessert to delight family and guests.
Notes
- Using a boxed chocolate cake mix simplifies the process, but homemade cake can be substituted for a more personalized flavor.
- Be careful when adding the ricotta layer — do not mix it into the batter; it will create a beautiful marbled effect while baking.
- You can add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cake batter for added texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the ricotta layer slightly.
- Allowing the cake to cool fully ensures the ricotta layer sets properly and slicing is easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
