Ricotta cake is a delicious and versatile dessert that is perfect for any occasion. It is made with ricotta cheese, which gives it a moist and creamy texture. The cake can be flavored with vanilla extract, lemon zest, or other spices. It can also be topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate ganache.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/3 cups sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 15 ounce container whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the ricotta cheese to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving.
TIPS:
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
- Add 1/2 cup of grated lemon zest to the batter for a lemon ricotta cake.
- Serve the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
VARIATIONS:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, to the batter.
- Top the cake with a layer of fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
- Drizzle the cake with chocolate ganache or a lemon glaze.
BENEFITS:
- High in protein: Ricotta cheese is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.
- High in calcium: Ricotta cheese is also a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
- Relatively low in calories and fat: Ricotta cake is a relatively low-calorie and low-fat dessert, making it a good choice for people who are watching their weight.
- Versatile: Ricotta cake can be flavored and decorated in many different ways, making it a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE:
One serving of ricotta cake (about 1 slice) contains approximately:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 5g
Tips for Making Ricotta Cake Healthier:
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour is a good source of fiber and other nutrients.
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by 1/4 cup.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter for extra fiber and nutrients.
- Serve ricotta cake with fresh fruit or yogurt for a healthier dessert.
Overall, ricotta cake is a healthy and delicious dessert option. It is a good source of protein and calcium, and it is relatively low in calories and fat. Ricotta cake can also be made healthier by using whole wheat flour, reducing the amount of sugar, and adding nuts or dried fruit to the batter.
Enjoy! 😋😋
.jpg)
No comments